reaches audiences as the host of a popular radio program, through
newspaper articles and by leading extension training programs
throughout Colombia.
With coffee farms worldwide plagued by rust and new environmental challenges, extension programs are more important than
ever. Colombia's advisory program seeks not only to communicate
with growers but also to strengthen the social fabric within coffeefarming communities. While the extension service dates back to
1959, with Yarumo at the helm it is recognized as one of the most
important systems of support for Colombian growers and a benchmark for extension services worldwide. Crop renovation, a sustainability program, education and technological advancement allow
growers to increase their production and ensure quality, aided by a
network of support that is rare in other producing countries.
NEW FACE: Daniel Chica (left) will take over as Professor Yarumo, a
prominent educator in Colombian coffee.
Gomez's team at the MEAS examined five other extension
programs during its evaluation and determined that Professor
Yarumo's role is a unique one. Gomez says the implementation of similarly relatable and media-savvy characters would be
continued on page 22
The next month, a study published in the journal Mayo Clinic Proceedings
linked coffee consumption with a higher death risk in people younger
than 55. |
freshcup.com September 2013
21