The Journal seeks to provide a venue to discuss topics related to development studies and governance, particularly on agrarian and urban development, agricultural and extension education, community development, development management and governance, education management, and strategic planning and public policy.

The JPAD accepts submission of papers that advance understanding on the process and contributions of social sciences in agriculture, forestry and natural resources, economic development, and community development and provide analysis on relationship among various development, policy, and governance issues. Preference is given to papers from research and model applications at the community and institutional levels that blend scientific disciplines and integrate social and technical knowledge.