Effectiveness of Targeted Educational Programs in Improving Duck-Management Knowledge Across Occupational and Educational Groups in Rural Indonesia

Duck farming plays a critical role in supporting food security, economic resilience, and rural livelihood development, especially in regions where agricultural diversification is a necessity. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a targeted educational program in improving technical knowledge of duck management among rural communities with diverse occupational and educational backgrounds. A quasi-experimental pre-test and post-test design was implemented in Palembon Village, Bojonegoro, Indonesia, involving 40 participants from both agricultural and non-agricultural sectors. Structured training modules covering disease control, feeding, and husbandry were delivered interactively. Knowledge gains were assessed using validated questionnaires and analyzed through non-parametric statistical tests. Results demonstrated a highly significant improvement in participants' technical understanding post-intervention (p < 0.001). Moreover, participants with non-agricultural occupations and low formal education achieved post-test scores comparable to their agricultural or higher-educated counterparts. These findings highlight the inclusivity and adaptability of the training approach, which emphasized practical relevance and community-based learning strategies. The convergence in learning outcomes suggests that effective instructional design can bridge knowledge gaps regardless of participants' prior experience or education. This study underscores the potential of targeted agricultural education as a scalable tool for rural capacity building and livestock productivity enhancement. The intervention aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 on Quality Education and SDG 2 on Zero Hunger by promoting inclusive, lifelong learning and sustainable livestock practices for food security.