Development communication and youth empowerment model for next-generation Agripreneurs

Abstract

The urgent need to transform agriculture into a dynamic, youth-driven sector requires innovative approaches that integrate communication strategies with empowerment frameworks. This study proposes a Development Communication and Youth Empowerment Model for Next-Generation Agripreneurs, designed to address barriers faced by young people in adopting agribusiness as a viable career path. Traditional extension and training methods often overlook the centrality of youth aspirations, digital engagement, and participatory learning, resulting in low uptake of agricultural opportunities. The proposed model emphasizes the strategic use of development communication to inspire, inform, and influence youth toward agripreneurship while simultaneously building capacity through empowerment mechanisms. It integrates three interrelated components: Information Dissemination, which leverages digital media, peer networks, and storytelling to reshape perceptions of agriculture; Capacity Development, which provides technical, financial, and entrepreneurial skills through participatory training, mentorship, and experiential learning; and Enabling Environment, which ensures supportive policies, access to finance, markets, and technological infrastructure. By linking communication processes with empowerment outcomes, the model facilitates behavioral change, enhances self-efficacy, and nurtures innovation among young agripreneurs. It also recognizes the role of social capital, cultural narratives, and intergenerational dialogue in shaping youth identity and agency within agribusiness. Importantly, the model addresses gender and inclusivity gaps by ensuring equal access to opportunities and highlighting the voices of marginalized groups. Policy implications suggest that governments, development agencies, and private stakeholders should adopt communication-centered empowerment strategies to reposition agriculture as attractive, profitable, and sustainable for the youth. Practical applications include using social media campaigns to showcase agripreneurial success stories, establishing mentorship platforms, and designing incentive-based programs that align with youth motivations. By fostering participation, innovation, and resilience, the Development Communication and Youth Empowerment Model provides a roadmap for cultivating a new generation of agripreneurs capable of driving food security, rural development, and economic transformation in the face of global challenges. Keywords: Development Communication, Youth Empowerment, Agripreneurship, Participatory Learning, Digital Media, Agricultural Transformation, Innovation, Capacity Building, Enabling Environment, Sustainability.