Farmers’ Knowledge and Perception regarding Privatization and Commercialization of Agricultural Extension Services in Delta State, Nigeria

Subject Areas : Agricultural Extension

Ajieh  Patrick Chuks ¹ (Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, Delta State University, Asaba Campus, Asaba, Nigeria)

Received: 2015-12-25 Accepted : 2015-12-25 Published : 2012-12-01

Keywords: knowledge, Perception, Privatization, Commercialization, Agricultural Extension Services,

Abstract :

This study examined the knowledge and perception of farmers regarding privatization and commercialization of agricultural extension services in Delta State, Nigeria. A sample size of 90 farmers in contact with extension agents was randomly selected for the study. Data for the study was collected through the use of a validated structured interview schedule. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used in analyzing data generated from the study. Results show that respondents had a low to moderate knowledge regarding the concept, principles and objectives of privatization and commercialization. Respondents also had a favorable perception towards privatization and commercialization of agricultural extension services. There was no significant difference in the perceptions of small, medium and large-scale farmers. The study concludes that the favorable perception held by the respondents is an indication of their willingness to accept the introduction of privatization and commercialization in agricultural extension services delivery. It therefore recommends that the government of Delta State should consider privatizing and/or commercializing agricultural extension services in the state. [Ajieh Patrick Chuks. Farmers’ Knowledge and Perception regarding Privatization and Commercialization of Agricultural Extension Services in Delta State, Nigeria. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology in Extension and Education Systems, 2012; 2(4):175-179].

References:

1. Ahmad, M. (1999). Comparative analysis of the effectiveness of agricultural extension work by public and private sectors in Punjab, Ph.D. Thesis, University of New England, Armidale, NSW

2. Antholt, C. H. (1994). Getting ready for the 21st century: Technical change and constitutional modernization in agriculture, World Bank Technical Paper No. 217, Washington D.C; The World Bank

3. Less, J. W. (1990). More than Accountability: Evaluating Extension Programmes. Armidale, NSW. The Rural Development Centre, University of New England.

4. Madukwe, M. C. and Erie, A. P. (1999). Privatization and commercialization of agricultural extension services in Nigeria: A proposal, Proceedings of the 5th Annual National Conference of AESON. UNN April 12-15: 106-112

5. Ozor, N., Agwu, A. E., Chukwuone, N. A., Madukwe, M. C and Garforth C. J. (2007). Cost-sharing of Agricultural Technology Transfer in Nigeria: perceptions of farmers and extension professionals. Journal of Agricultural Education and Extension, Vol. 13 (1): 23-37

6. Rasheed, S. V., Andy, H and Suresh, H. (2005). Effectiveness of private sector extension in India and lessons for the new extension policy agenda, AgRen Network paper 141:1-11

7. Rivera, W., Zijp, W and Gary, A. (2000). Contracting for extension: Review of emerging practices, Akis Good Practice Note: Agricultural Knowledge Information System (AKIS), Thematic Group, Washington, D.C: World Bank.

8. Rivera, W. (2001). Agriculture and rural extension worldwide: Options for institutional reform in developing countries. Rome: FAO

9. Rivera, W. M and Cary, J. W. (1997). Privatizing agricultural extension, In: Swanson, B.E: Bentz, RP: and Sofranko, A.J. (eds.) Improving Agricultural Extension – A Reference Manual, Rome: FAO:203-211

10. Swanson, B. E., Farmer, B. J and Bahal, R. (1990). The Current Status of Agricultural Extension Worldwide, In: Swanson, B.E. (eds.) Report of the Global Consultation on Agricultural Extension. Rome: Food and Agricultural Organization.