Readiness to perform duties of Village Agricultural Volunteers in Chon Buri Province

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze factors associated with the readiness level for work performance of Village Agricultural Volunteers (VAVs) in Chonburi Province. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires from a sample of 248 VAVs in Chonburi Province. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and content analysis. The results showed that most VAVs were male with an average age of 52.67 years, primarily engaged in agricultural occupations, with average agricultural income of 17,179.56 baht/month and average non-agricultural income of 17,522.18 baht/month. They held diverse social roles such as community leaders, village health volunteers, and volunteer soil doctors. Their overall knowledge of work performance was at a high level (mean = 3.54), and their overall readiness for work performance was at a high level (mean = 3.74), with the highest readiness in monitoring and reporting agricultural situations (mean = 3.89). Factors significantly associated with readiness level included primary occupation, volunteer work in other fields, and knowledge level regarding VAV roles and responsibilities. Demographic factors such as gender, age, and education level showed no significant associations. The most important need of VAVs was to receive compensation for their work (79.44%), followed by network seminars and agricultural information communication. These findings demonstrate the potential of VAVs in supporting community-level agricultural extension systems and suggest development approaches such as enhancing knowledge transfer skills, preparing for emergency response, and providing appropriate welfare support to achieve efficient and sustainable operations.