Scientific Manpower for the Less-developed Countries

Abstract

To stimulate agricultural growth through the application of science is a key problem of economic develop ment. Numberless cultivators must be reached by—and must accept—integrated programs which include a range of services and commitments from technical advice to market assurances. Properly to aid cultivators requires enormous numbers of trained men and women who must essentially be local citizens rooted in their country's culture and problems. Even so, the United States can and should make an increased but more selective effort to help. The scope and complexity of the task together with the need to reach cultivators with all essential services recommend concentration in selected areas with long- term programs. The necessary emphasis upon the application of science makes educational institutions obvious instruments of this national policy, but they require long-term commit ments with adequate financial help and a large amount of responsible freedom.