This paper introduces a vision for modernizing agricultural extension system in Egypt. This proposed vision was based on: (a) determination of principal requirements for modernizing agricultural extension systems, (b) results of previous research in this area, (c) an empirical investigation carried out on agricultural extension personnel in Assiut governorate to know the need for modernizing agricultural extension system in Egypt, and (d) information gathered through personal interviews with some officials at the national level and Assiut governorate level. The empirical study adopted the frame work for modernizing agricultural extension systems proposed by FAO in 2005. A survey was carried out on 167 (55 %) of extension personnel in Assiut governorate.
The results showed that in order to modernize the agricultural extension system in Egypt, there is a great need to: a clear strategy for agricultural extension, a good organization structure, proper and effective personnel, proper means for academic preparation and training of extension personnel, proper methods for selecting those personnel at various levels and for different jobs, proper criteria for their performance assessment, provision of adequate financial support for planning and implanting extension programs, development of communication methods and means through the application of information communication technology, effective organizations for farmers, strong and effective linkages between the agricultural extension system and the other related systems at regional and local levels. The paper also presents a proposed organizational structure for the agricultural extension system in Egypt.