Readiness of youth in rural agribusiness (case of West Java, Indonesia)

Abstract

As a system, agribusiness is complex in its nature. The consequence is, whoever wants to enter the system is required to be ready. The complexity of agribusiness has made it less liked and under-valued by the youth. The implication of this is that the age structure of agribusiness agents in Indonesia became older. Paradox to that, it is identified that in West Java plateau, educated and skilled youths choose to enter into agribusiness. This research aimed to: (1) descriptively analyse the readiness of agribusiness young actors (AYA) in performing agribusiness; (2) analyse the readiness difference of AYA; (3) analyse personal, interesting and push factors that influence the readiness of AYA, and; (4) formulate readiness reinforcement strategy for AYA. This research designed integrally and conducted in West Java for 10 months (July 2014 - July 2015). Primary data was collected from structured interview with 280 respondents, then was tabulated and analysed statistically using SEM and LISREL 8.80 analysis tools. The result of the research shows that the readiness of AYA is high. The readiness of AYA is evidently different across areas. This readiness is manifestly influenced by pull factors as well as personal characteristic. In order to gain readiness earlier, those interesting factors as well as dominant personal character should become the primary contents in young agents' extension. The recommendation is to develop a synergy with stakeholders through multiple helix extension.