Exploring and Assessing Leadership Competence in Mexican Agricultural Extension: A Borich Model Approach

This study explores and assesses leadership competency among Mexican agricultural extension agents using the Borich Needs Assessment Model. The aim of this study was to determine the Extension agents’ (n = 214) perceived level of importance, knowledge, and training needs for leadership skills. Mean Weighted Discrepancy Scores were calculated to determine training needs. A validated instrument, translated and culturally adapted to Spanish using best practices, was used to assess 57 competencies across nine leadership constructs. Participants’ perceived responses were above average importance for all skills; However, the participants perceived their knowledge of all leadership skills to be average to above average. The results reveal variations in perceived knowledge, with certain skills being rated higher than others. The five highest-rated training needs for Mexican extension agents include: communicate through public speaking, find ways to encourage farmers to adopt innovations, the ability to persuade farmers to adopt technologies, visualize future extension prospects and problems, and efficiently manage time. While all regions shared a strong need for improved leadership competencies, the specific training priorities varied across Mexico’s agri-food regions. This regional variation highlighted that no single training program can address the needs of all extension professionals uniformly. Instead, region-specific approaches are essential to effectively support the unique agricultural, cultural, and institutional contexts in which agents operate. By recognizing these differences, policymakers and training institutions can design more targeted and relevant leadership development programs. Such tailored efforts will enhance the capacity of extension agents to engage farmers, promote innovation, and contribute to the long-term success and sustainability of agricultural extension services across the country.