Department of Agricultural Education & Studies

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Graduate Programs: Greg Miller 515-294-2583 / Undergraduate Programs: Mike Retallick 515-294-4810

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Graduate Student Scholarly Work

 

Tritz, J.A. (1997). Perceptions held by female agricultural educators regarding the role of women in agriculture in Uzbekistan: Implications to agriculture and extension education. Master’s thesis.

The agricultural revolution that evolved throughout Uzbekistan over the past century had a dramatic effect on women.  The emancipation of women under Soviet rule increased their role in the labor force, especially in agriculture with the intensification of cotton production.  More women became visible on state farms or kolkhozes and yet, remained invisible in respect to their domestic responsibilities.  The policies of agrarian development implemented throughout Uzbekistan promoted inequalities and health risks as more women were seen working the land.

The agricultural sector has often been the context for much of the research conducted in the area of women in development.  Women dominate much of the production agriculture conducted throughout the world.  With 61% of Uzbek women residing in rural areas, their role in agriculture has given them an identity they share with many women in similar economies. Yet what makes Uzbek women unique are the social structures under Soviet rule that have allowed higher levels of literacy and better social protection when compared to other women in Muslim countries.

The perceptions garnered from this study reveal that women are involved in a variety of agricultural careers-from farming to professional positions.  However, women narrowly defined agriculture in terms of production.  Opportunities exist for women in agriculture, but women may be hindered by male dominance in the profession, domestic responsibilities, and the desire for more “feminized” professions such as medicine.  Women believe that success in agricultural careers was attainable, but women had to work harder to achieve success when compared to men in similar agricultural occupations.

The successes and challenges that await the women of Uzbekistan will hinge largely on the role of education, extension, and development.  As the agricultural industry in Uzbekistan diversifies from cotton, it is important to diversify mindsets and provide a gender perspective that will allow more women into and to succeed in various agricultural professions.  Incorporating a gender perspective into curricula, extension and development programs will increase awareness as to the importance of women in agriculture.  There is strength in gender diversity and the women in this study are well educated and can help shape and strengthen the role of women throughout Uzbekistan.