Abstract:
Purpose : Generally Cooperative Associations play positive and productive role in disseminating the latest
information on all aspects and services to the farming communities. However, it seemed imperative to assess
the perceptions of the members and evaluate role of the Unaizah Agricultural Cooperative Association
(UACA) to improve its working by addressing the issues and concerns of its members.
Research Method : One hundred thirty-two respondents representing 25% of registered member farmers of
the association were identified by applying a random sampling technique. Data were collected by using a welldesigned and pre-tested questionnaire to achieve the objectives of the study. Descriptive statistics were used to
analyze and interpret the data.
Findings : Respondents had high perceptions regarding the role of UACA in the following areas: makes
agricultural innovations available to the farmers at suitable prices; establishes good contacts with
extension staff; brings useful activities; helps solving agricultural problems; provides timely information;
maintains good relations with its members; establishes beneficial agreements with traders to enable
farmers to have easy access to markets. Though majority (70.5%) of the respondents were highly aware
of the importance of the association yet almost half of the respondents (53%) were moderately satisfied,
suggesting an improvement in its working.
Originality/ Value : No scientific study of the kind has not been launched before. Hence the outcomes of
the study would help the association in enhancing its working
