You have learned that in many parts of the world in recent times there has been a reduction in the funding for public extension.  A number of issues have risen concerning equity, lack of efficiency and reduction of external funding. This situation requires a number of possible changes. In many countries various cost-recoveries, commercialization, and privatization alternatives have been adopted to improve agricultural extension. Privatization involves introducing or increasing private sector participation. The alternative of privatization is debatable in the context of developing countries where small scale farmers form the majority of the agricultural sector.