Utilization and Access of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) by Extension Agents for Enhancing Extension Service Delivery in Kaduna State, Nigeria
Author: Mudashir Adeola Olaitan, Joseph Bamidele, Oluwamayowa Joseph Joel, Beatrice Itoya Oyediji, Ayoola Faith Joel, Samson Olayemi Sennuga
Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Sociology, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Abuja, FCT, P.M.B. 117, Abuja, Nigeria.
Published Date: 2024-07-24
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Keywords: Information and Communication Technology (ICTs), extension agents, access, utilization, facilities.
Abstract:
This study aimed to assess how field extension agents in Kaduna State access and use information and communication technology (ICT) for delivering extension services. A multi-stage sampling approach, combining purposive and simple random sampling techniques, was employed to select 200 extension agents for the research. Primary data were gathered using descriptive and inferential statistics to achieve the study's specific objectives. The findings indicated that 62% of the extension agents were male, with 43.5% aged between 41-50 years, and a majority (78%) being married. Furthermore, 85% had tertiary education, 45% had a household size of 1-3 persons, and 51.5% had a monthly income of ₦21,000-₦40,000. The analysis also revealed that the most commonly owned, accessed, and used ICT tools by the extension agents were radio, television, and phones, which were personally sourced from the open market. Consequently, the overall level of access to and use of these tools was then looked on to be low generally, with mean response scores of x = 1.7 for both. The extension agents' views on the usage of ICTs in agricultural activities revealed the following: gathering information from research institutions and farmers (x = 2.7), obtaining information on new seed varieties and seedlings (x = 2.6), best techniques for planting (x = 2.6), and methods of livestock management (x = 2.6), among others. Regression analysis indicated that gender, age, education level, and work experience did not impact greatly on ICT utilization. However, marital status, income, occupation, organization, awareness, and accessibility were key factors influencing the use of ICTs in extension service delivery. Based on these insights, suggestions were discussed to enhance the utilization of modern ICTs and provide adequate training for extension agents on ICT usage, among other suggestions.
