The early history of the agricultural extension services in South Africa dates to the reconstruction
years that followed from 1902 when scientists were imported from England to assist in the
development of local agriculture (Van Vuren, 1952). As a result of unfamiliarity with local
agricultural conditions their advice and guidance were not always regarded of practical value and as
early as 1907 the first scientists from South Africa were send to study abroad. The technical support
services circa 1910 consisted of a number of specialist services that each focused on the services of its
branch with no central coordination. Often regarded as a highhanded specialist phase in the
development of the extension services the concept of agricultural demonstration trains were
introduced in 1914 with the idea of more personal and closer contact with farmers and their problems.
This contributed much towards proving the Department’s goodwill to a prejudiced and sceptical
farming community.