A Case Study of Knowledge Gap Analysis of Ginners in Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract

This study addresses the knowledge gaps among ginners and also seeks to bridge them. Few studies have been undertaken in the ginning sector, especially in Punjab, Pakistan. It is pertinent to indicate that ginning industries are at the central place in the cotton value chain. The cotton ginning sector has suffered in the last few years. Ginning out Turn (GOT) is very low in Pakistan as compared to other countries. The existing ginning technology is obsolete and often results in the deterioration of fiber length during ginning. Improving the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of the individuals involved in the cotton ginning sector will not only benefit the industry itself but also strengthen its forward and backward connections through the provision of effective extension services. A random sampling technique was used to determine the sample size. The study included only 50 ginners. An interview schedule was prepared to collect the data. The collected data were analyzed by using SPSS. Results showed that ginners had knowledge gap in assessing quality characteristics of cotton, managing operations involved in ginning process, management of problems, labor management, up gradation of machinery, business competitiveness, quality management, marketing strategies, knowledge of government policies, promotion of institutional linkages, transportation, storage, capacity of losses management, sources of information, packing and acquisition of technical expertise.