By: Rebecca Konopka
Carter County Extension Agent
At the recent Al Moutmir International Extension Conference in Morocco, agricultural leaders, researchers, and extension professionals from around the world gathered to share strategies for advancing sustainable farming. Among the highlights was a panel discussion focused on empowering youth and women in agriculture, where I had the privilege of speaking about the critical role these groups play in shaping resilient food systems.
During the panel, I shared that youth engagement begins early through 4‑H programs, offering hands‑on experimental learning in animal science, leadership, and community service, while also creating a two‑fold impact as children share new ideas with their parents. Extension programming for adults must be tailored to experience levels and designed to break down gender‑specific barriers through practical, grassroots approaches that build trust and efficiency. Strong relationships with producers, supported by councils and community networks, make it easier to introduce new research and encourage broader participation.
The conference also provided an opportunity to tour the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) campus in Benguerir. The visit included stops at cutting-edge laboratories and the university’s expansive experimental farm, where research is directly applied to Morocco’s agricultural challenges.
Key areas of exploration included:
• Soil sampling and fertilizer usage: Innovative techniques are being developed to optimize nutrient management and improve crop yields sustainably.
• Prickly pear cactus research: Scientists are studying resistance to an invasive scale insect, protecting a crop that is vital for rural livelihoods.
• Desalination projects: Pioneering work is underway to harness desalinated water for agriculture, addressing water scarcity in arid regions.
• Plant production for mining site rehabilitation: Research teams are cultivating species capable of restoring degraded lands, blending ecology with industry needs.
The exchange of ideas at Al Moutmir underscored the importance of international collaboration in extension work. Morocco’s efforts to integrate advanced science with community-based solutions offer valuable lessons for extension agents worldwide. The innovations witnessed at UM6P demonstrate how research can be translated into practical tools for farmers.
Hotel accommodations, airfare, and meals were generously provided by the Al Moutmir hosts. This trip served as a follow‑up to last fall’s visit, when Al Moutmir professionals traveled to the University of Kentucky and the Carter County Extension Office to learn about our programs.
As extension professionals, our mission is to connect research with real-world practice. The insights gained in Morocco reaffirm the importance of building bridges—between scientists and farmers, between generations, and across borders. By working together, we can cultivate agricultural systems that are both productive and sustainable.
Educational programs of the Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expressions, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.
