Assessment Of The Frequency Of Ict Tools Usage By Agricultural Extension Agents In Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract

In recent times, information and communication technology (ICT) has become relevant in the Nigerian agricultural sector. The extension service requires ICT for effective information delivery. This study examines the frequency of ICT tools usage by agricultural extension agents in Imo State, Nigeria. Data for the study was collected from 57 randomly selected extension agents. Data analysis was by the use of frequency, percentages, mean and t-test. Findings of the study revealed that only mobile phone and computer were frequently used by respondents. The overall mean of 0.89 suggests that ICT tools were not frequently used for extension services and this has grave implications for agricultural development. Based on the findings of the study, the following recommendations were made: there should be adequate provision of computers for all the extension agents. Adequate provision should be made for the maintenance of the ICT facilities and systems. That provision should be made in providing training programme for the extension agents in order to update their knowledge on the latest and new information technology. Government to establish policy programme as means of bridging our digital divide, creating digital opportunity for various users of extension services in the country. ICT enabled extension service must be able to define it's key stakeholders and audience and jointly determine their needs. INTRODUCTION One of the main tasks functions of Agricultural Extension is the exchange sharing of information, knowledge and skills. Extension therefore is essentially communication, a process whereby various participants are linked and exchanged information, a critical requirement for sustainable development. The paradigms shift in development concept towards participation and sustainability coupled with revolutions in the information and communication technology has provided opportunities for extension and rural communities to move into the information age. Extensive review of literatures in agricultural development by Ojiambo (1995) and Kaniki (1995) showed that there is a direct relationship between research and the utilization of research findings Kipang'at, (2003). This a strong linkage complimented by flawless information flow enhanced by the effective use of ICT by the extension services will significantly boost agricultural production and improve rural livelihoods in developing countries. Front line extension workers who are the direct link between farmed and other actors in the agricultural knowledge and information system, are well positioned to make use of ICT to access expert knowledge or other types of information that could facilitate the accomplishment of their day-to-day activities (Adedoyin, 2005). The 6 th consultative expert meeting of CTA's observatory on ICT (CTA, 2003) listed the following as a potential ICT application in extension; Enhance farmers ability to collate demands, Collaborate learning, Exchange of time sensitive information e.g market price, diseases outbreaks, etc., Make extension systems and structure more efficient, Engage farmers in assessing own needs, solutions, Facilitating multi-stakeholders brainstorming, Exploring attentive production technologies facilitating access to markets and credits,