Perceptions of Professional Competence and Sectoral Problems of Small Ruminant Farmers In Şanlıurfa Province, Türkiye *

This study aims to examine the perceptions of small ruminant farmers in Şanlıurfa province regarding their technical knowledge and skills, access to technical support, ability to find shepherds, and the adequacy of pasture areas, as well as the socio-economic and operational structural characteristics that influence these perceptions. The primary data for the study were collected through surveys conducted with members of the Şanlıurfa Breeding Sheep and Goat Raisers Association. A total of 133 farmers were interviewed face-to-face as part of the study. Descriptive statistical methods were used for data analysis, and the Kruskal-Wallis Variance Analysis and Dunn Multiple Comparison Test were employed to identify differences between independent variable groups. According to the research findings, it was determined that farmers' perceptions of their technical knowledge and skills showed significant differences according to factors such as district, education level, number of people working in animal husbandry, and number of animals. In terms of perceptions of access to technical support, it was determined that the number of people working in animal husbandry and the number of animals were effective factors. It was revealed that farmers experienced significant differences in terms of finding shepherds according to factors such as district, age, number of people working in livestock farming, livestock farming experience, and number of animals. In terms of the adequacy of pasture areas, it was determined that the district, livestock farming experience, and number of animals were effective factors. In general, it was determined that farmers have a moderate level of negative perception regarding technical knowledge and skills, access to technical support, and finding shepherds, while they have a high level of negative perception regarding the adequacy of pasture areas. These findings reveal the complex structure of the problems encountered in the small ruminant livestock sector and are consistent with similar studies in the literature. In particular, difficulties in finding shepherds and inadequate pasture land emerge as important factors threatening the sustainability of the sector. The study provides important information to policymakers and relevant stakeholders for the development of targeted education, publication, and support programs that take into account the socio-economic and operational characteristics of farmers. It has been concluded that integrated and multi-faceted approaches must be adopted to enhance the sector's productivity and address the challenges it faces.