The Global Forum for Rural Advisory Services (GFRAS) has articulated a new vision for Extension and Advisory Services (EAS) within the Agricultural Innovation Systems (AIS). This vision, articulated in its position paper, called The “New Extensionist”, argues for an expanded role for EAS (Box 1) within AIS and development of new capacities at different levels. The motive behind the development of The “New Extensionist” comes from the realisation that the existing EAS needs new capacities to respond effectively to the emerging challenges in agricultural development (declining water availability, increasing soil degradation, and changing and uncertain climate and markets). In the past few years, EAS’ capacities to perform their traditional roles, such as training and communication of technical information, have eroded. Meanwhile, the extension landscape has become increasingly pluralistic with greater participation of the private sector.