Internet Use for Extension Communication Among Agricultural Research Institutes and Farmers.
Abstract
This, study was conducted to assess Internet use for extension communication among the agricultural research institutes and farmers in the north-west.
Two agricultural research institutes in the North-West zone of Nigeria were selected for the study namely: National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI) and Institute of Agricultural Research (IAR).
An investigation using a survey research method was adopted for the study. The research sample consisted of 200 researchers and technical staff, as well as 100 farmers aged in the age range 20yrs – 60years. The farmers were chosen from 5 states, i.e, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Jigawa and Zamfara states.
Purposive sampling method was used in selecting the respondents. Data collected was analysed using simple descriptive statistics.
Findings from the study revealed that 90% of respondents attested that the institutes have functional Internet facilities, even though with a poor service which tends to limit its effectiveness for agricultural extension.
Also, 39-55% affirmed that the two research institutes does not use their internet for agricultural extension purposes but uses the Internet in the area of researches as confirmed by over 80% of the respondents. However, 52% of the farmers lack Internet skill as well as access to the Internet.
Introduction
A major constraint to agricultural development in Nigeria is the lack of inappropriate channels to deliver extension messages.
Access to information is one of the most critical resources in the agricultural sector, as well as economic development in Nigeria.
Farmers need information on opportunities and threats in which the Internet can be of significant in accessing agricultural information.
The Internet is one tool that can enhance the flow of information between and among agricultural research institutes, Extension Agents (EAs) and the farmers.
African, Caribbean and Pacific (CTA, 2003) and Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO, 1998) defined the Internet as one technology involved in collecting, processing, storing, retrieving, disseminating and implementing data and information using microelectronics, optics, telecommunications and computers.
Meera, Jhamtani, and Rao. (2004) noted that the Internet can bring new information services to rural areas where farmers (end users) will have much greater access to new agricultural innovations and information, than ever before.
References
Adekunle A.A. (2007). Technology-mediated open and distance education (tech-mode) for agricultural education and improved livelihoods: A Nigerian case study. Vancouver, Canada: commonwealth of learning. Retrieved 22/03/2012 from http://wikieducator.org/Tech-Mode_in_Nigeria
Adeyanju A.M, Haruna. A, & Abubakar, A. (2011) Information and agricultural development in Nigeria: analysis of NAQAS NAERLS. Communication for social change and development (ed): Uyo. African communication council of education. PP. 31-45
December J. & Randall, N. (1994). The world wide web unleashed. Indianapolis: Sams publishing. pp23.
Fadiji, T. O. (2011). Factors influencing usage of information and communication technologies among village extension agents in three states in Nigeria: Phd pre- defence seminar (unpublished). Department of agric economics and rural sociology: Zaria. Ahmadu Bello University.
FAO (1998). The potentials of micro-computers in support of Agricultural Extension, education and training Rome: FAO.
Be the first to comment