Strategi Penyuluh Yang Efektif Mengatasi Keragaman Bahasa & Budaya di Kota Sibolga

Abstract

This research aims to identify and analyze effective extension strategies in overcoming linguistic and cultural diversity in Sibolga City. The city of Sibolga, which is known as a multiethnic area, faces complex communication challenges due to language and cultural differences between residents. Extension agents, as agents of change, play an important role in conveying information and building public awareness to create social harmony. This research approach uses qualitative methods with data collection techniques in the form of in-depth interviews, participant observation and documentation studies. The research results show that effective strategies include: 1) Participatory approach, xtension agents actively involve the community in the extension process to ensure the relevance of the messages conveyed. 2) Use of local language, the instructor uses a language understood by the local community as the main communication medium. 3)Cultural understanding, extension workers explore local cultural values ​​to build trust and emotional connections with the community. 4) Cross-cultural training, extension agents are provided with special training to improve their abilities in dealing with linguistic and cultural diversity. These results show that the success of extension depends not only on the technical abilities of the extension workers, but also on their ability to adapt to the socio-cultural conditions of the local community. With an effective strategy, counseling can be a bridge to overcome differences and create an inclusive and harmonious society in Sibolga City.