List of articles (by subject) Agricultural Extension

    • Open Access Article

      1 - Factors Affecting Groundnut Market Outlet Choice in Moisture Stress Area of Babile District, Eastern Ethiopia: Multivariate Probit Approach
      Jafer Ahmed Abdulaziz Umare Nasir Mahamed Oromia Galane Kebret Desse
      The groundnut plant has the ability to survive in areas of low rainfall because it is a legume and it increases soil fertility by fixing nitrogen in the soil. The study area is known by erratic and uneven rainfall while groundnut is the main cash crop in the area. The s More
      The groundnut plant has the ability to survive in areas of low rainfall because it is a legume and it increases soil fertility by fixing nitrogen in the soil. The study area is known by erratic and uneven rainfall while groundnut is the main cash crop in the area. The study identified the groundnut market outlets, factor affecting groundnut market outlet choice and identifies farm level women role in groundnut production, in Eastern Hararghe, Oromia Region. Both primary and secondary data were collected for the study. Primary data were collected from 120 sample households using questionnaire during the period of January15-February202016. The study implemented multivariate probit regression model to identify factor affecting groundnut market outlet choice. The results show that there is a significant correlation between marker outlets suggesting that practice of market outlets is interrelated. Multivariate probit regression estimation also revealed that sex of household head, education level, market distance, size of groundnut land, groundnut production experience, store time, access to extension and labor force of household member found to affect significantly the groundnut market outlet choice of household in study area. This also shows that higher educational level of household head increases the awareness of farmer about the benefits of choosing profitable market outlet. Therefore, a way of access to adult education for household head should be designed. Manuscript profile
    • Open Access Article

      2 - Assessment on Farm Enterprises, Major Agricultural Risks and Demand for Micro-Insurance Services by Smallholder Farmers in Selected Areas of Benishangulgumuz, Western Ethiopia
      Alemayehu Lamore
      The study was conducted in Assosa district of Benishangul-Gumuz regional state, western Ethiopia, to assess major farm enterprises, agricultural risks and demand for micro-insurance services. Two peasant associations namely, Selga-23 and Kushmengel were selected to repr More
      The study was conducted in Assosa district of Benishangul-Gumuz regional state, western Ethiopia, to assess major farm enterprises, agricultural risks and demand for micro-insurance services. Two peasant associations namely, Selga-23 and Kushmengel were selected to represent settler and native farming communities, respectively. Using simple randomized techniques, 86 respondents were selected for the study. Data were collected from both primary and secondary sources. Data were analysed using SPSS software. Descriptive, T-test, chi-square test and correlation analysis were used for data analysis. Rank index analysis was also done to order multiple variables using Microsoft excel. Results revealed that teff is the most important crop followed by finger millet for settler community whereas, maize the most widely grown crop in native community followed by teff. Cattle, goat and chicken are widely reared livestock species in the study areas. However, both crop and livestock production face natural adversities and climatic factors that is out of control of smallholder farmers. Smallholder farmers tried coping with the risks primarily by selling some of their livestock resources and reducing home consumption. Thus, provision of micro-insurance for smallholder farmers in a coordinated way can be a better way out of this crisis. There is high demand for micro-insurance services in the study area and smallholder farmers showed strong willingness to pay to premiums. Thus, it was recommended that multi-peril crop insurance and indemnity based livestock insurance can be used in study areas based on the nature of agricultural risks. Manuscript profile
    • Open Access Article

      3 - Farmers’ Attitude toward the Soil Conservation Practices in the Kushk-Abad Catchment Basins in the Province of Khorasan Razavi, Iran
      Bahram Mohammadi Golrang S.H.R Sadeghi Ali Vahedi
      The purpose of this study is to assess Farmers’ attitude toward the soil conservation practices in the Kushk-Abad catchment basins in the province of Khorasan Razavi. A sample of 200 farmers was randomly selected from 1200 farmers living in Kardeh catchment basin. More
      The purpose of this study is to assess Farmers’ attitude toward the soil conservation practices in the Kushk-Abad catchment basins in the province of Khorasan Razavi. A sample of 200 farmers was randomly selected from 1200 farmers living in Kardeh catchment basin. Data collection was done through a questionnaire that was administered in 2014. Validity of the questionnaire was confirmed by a panel of experts. To assess the reliability of the questionnaire, Cronbach’s alpha was used. This coefficient for adoption level of sustainble soil conservation practices was 0.84. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics such as extent of mean, standard deviation, coefficient of variation, correlation analysis. The results showed a medium level of soil conservation use by most farmers. It was also found that there is a significant positive correlation between the amount of communication channels, information resources, and access to the IT infrastructures use with our dependent variable i.e. soil conservation implementation. The hierarchical regression analysis was applied in two steps to determine the predictive variables of soil conservation practices which, at the first step, the variables pertaining to the amount of communication channels and information resources were entered followed by variables of access to the ICT infrastructures on the second step as the independent variable. Manuscript profile
    • Open Access Article

      4 - The Potential of Blended Learning in Agricultural Education of Ireland
      Donna Deegan Padraig Wims Tony Pettit
      The management of agricultural education faces on-going challenges to deliver current and effective materials in an approach that takes advantage of developments in education technology. In this article the use of blended learning was compared with the traditional appro More
      The management of agricultural education faces on-going challenges to deliver current and effective materials in an approach that takes advantage of developments in education technology. In this article the use of blended learning was compared with the traditional approach for the instruction of theoretical materials in agricultural education. This study used a pre-test, post-test experimental design with agricultural college students. All students were taught using either a traditional or blended methodology. They were subsequently assessed to determine their level of knowledge. Two key findings from this study were highlighted: Firstly, regardless of their age profile all learners achieved significantly better exam results following blended teaching for theoretical material. Secondly, academically weaker students performed significantly better following the blended method of delivery. Key implications arising from this research indicate that the use of the blended method of delivery can increase students acquisition of knowledge for learners of all ages; blended learning can bring text heavy materials to life and makes them more interactive and less mundane; the learning experience and learning outcomes for academically weaker students are improved through the blended learning environment. Manuscript profile
    • Open Access Article

      5 - Economics of Leafy Vegetable Production among Pastoralists in Kwara State, Nigeria
      Olubunmi Omotesho Abdulazeez Muhammed-Lawal Abdulrashid Abdulganiyu Khadijat Amolegbe
      Degradation of grassland and the environment restricting access to grazing resources increased pastoral vulnerability to drought and loss of livestock assets which pose threat to pastoral based livelihoods. In respond to these threats many pastoral communities diversify More
      Degradation of grassland and the environment restricting access to grazing resources increased pastoral vulnerability to drought and loss of livestock assets which pose threat to pastoral based livelihoods. In respond to these threats many pastoral communities diversify their livelihood to agro-pastoralism. This shift led to increased sedentarization of the pastoralists with many growing crops and vegetables commercially. Therefore, the study estimate the costs and returns to leafy vegetable production; and examine the technical efficiency level of the pastoralists’ leafy vegetable farmers. A multistage sampling was used to select one hundred and twenty one (121) pastoralist leafy vegetable farmers as the sample for the study. Data were collected by means of structured interview schedule. Information was obtained on age, marital status, years of formal education, farming experience, land ownership, costs and revenue. Percentages, means and frequencies were the main descriptive statistical tools utilized. While the inferential statistics used is Stochastic Production Frontier. The study revealed that leafy vegetable production among pastoralist in the study area is profitable with mean net income of 23,379.47. Also, the technical efficiency ranges between 60.1% - 99.0% and the mean technical efficiency of the pooled sample is 86.9%. The study therefore concluded that vegetable farming among pastoralists is a profitable venture. Therefore it is recommended that farmers should be encouraged by giving inputs and incentives. They should also be trained by extension agents on proper farming techniques so as to increase their profit. Manuscript profile
    • Open Access Article

      6 - Assessment of the Effect of Rural Transportation Cost On Agricultural Productivity in Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria
      Ufedo Shaibu Felix Oyibo
      This study assessed the effect of rural-urban transportation on agricultural produce in Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. Primary data obtained from 90 rural farming households were analysed using frequency count, Ordinary Least Square (OLS) regression More
      This study assessed the effect of rural-urban transportation on agricultural produce in Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. Primary data obtained from 90 rural farming households were analysed using frequency count, Ordinary Least Square (OLS) regression analysis and mean score from a 3 point Likert type of scale. Results of the study revealed that majority of the farmers were married males in their active productive age of 41-60 years and a household size of 4-9 members. Farming in the area was still on a subsistence level as only 22.2% of the farmers cultivated above 3 hectares of farm land. The major modes of transporting farm produce identified in the area include the use of tricycle (92.2%), motorcycle (70%), and pick up van (64.9%). Furthermore, annual cost of transportation and number of years spent schooling (education) were negatively related to farmers’ income at 1% and 10% level of significance respectively. The major challenges faced by farmers in transporting their produce were bad road network (M= 2.4) and high transportation cost (M = 2.3). It was recommended that government should provide good road network and transportation facilities as it will ease the movement of farm produce to urban areas and as well increase farmers’ productivity and better their standard of living. Manuscript profile
    • Open Access Article

      7 - Mapping of Agricultural Information Flows for Yam Minisett Technology in Delta State, Nigeria
      Agbamu Joseph Ozor Augustine Ajieh Chuks
      ABSTRACTThis study examined information flow on minisett technology among yam farmers in Delta State, Nigeria. A sample size of 180 respondents was involved in the study. Data were obtained from respondents of the study through the use of a validated interview schedule. More
      ABSTRACTThis study examined information flow on minisett technology among yam farmers in Delta State, Nigeria. A sample size of 180 respondents was involved in the study. Data were obtained from respondents of the study through the use of a validated interview schedule. Percentage, frequency count and mean scores were used to summarize data, while line diagrams were used to develop maps of information flows. Results of the study reveal that the chain type of information flow was associated with the Delta North agricultural Zone, while Delta Central and Delta South Agricultural Zones were associated with community based and multiple contact types of information flows respectively. Federal and State government establishments, youth clubs, mass media, socio- cultural groups, farmers’ cooperatives, religious bodies, community development committees and non-governmental organizations were useful in driving information flows on yam minisett technology. The study also revealed that only few farmers used agricultural extension officers as source of information in Delta State. The major sources of information on yam minisett technology include radio (M=2.51); relatives (M=1.83); neighbours (M=1.61); contact and fellow farmers (M=1.47) and television (M=1.26). Based on these findings, The study recommends that multi-media approach should be adopted in the dissemination of information on yam based technologies. Also, farm radio and television broadcasts should be extensively used to air agricultural information to farmers on regular basis. Manuscript profile
    • Open Access Article

      8 - Challenges of Agroforestry Systems’ Adoption by Farmers in the North Central Zone of Nigeria
      Saliu J. Oluwagbemi T. Ifatimehin O.
      AbstractThe challenges of agroforestry systems’ adoption by farmers in the North central zone of Nigeria, was carried out to address the following objectives; find out the perception of farmers on agroforestry technologies, identify the adoption level and ascertai More
      AbstractThe challenges of agroforestry systems’ adoption by farmers in the North central zone of Nigeria, was carried out to address the following objectives; find out the perception of farmers on agroforestry technologies, identify the adoption level and ascertain why farmers discontinue agroforestry adoption.. Data were collected from 722 agroforestry farmers out of 782 sets of questionnaire that were distributed. Frequency and percentages were used to describe socioeconomic characteristics of the respondents. Meanscore and sigma score were used to anlayse perception of farmers, adoption levels and comparison between vegetal cover and selected climatic variables. More that 75 percent of the respondents had little or no formal education. More than sixty percent of the respondents had farm size between 1.1 to 3 hectares. Adoption of the technology increased between 2008 and 2010 but decreased as it approached 2013. Inadequate knowledge of agroforestry mean score (3.71) and lack of market (meanscore, (3.55) made many farmers to discontinue adoption. The paper stressed the establishment of Small-scale industries that will utilize the fruits from the trees planted as raw materials to attract better market, scale up adoption of more fruit trees among farmers. Manuscript profile
    • Open Access Article

      9 - Assessing Organizational and Personnel Structure in Iranian Agricultural Extension System
      Saeid Fealy Nahavand Gholamreza Pezeshki Rad Hassan Sadighi Esmaeil Shahbazi Seyed Javad Ghoraishi Abhari
      AbstractThe purpose of this study was to assess organizational and personnel structure in Iranian Agriculture Extension System (IAES). The research instrument was a structural questionnaire including close-ended questions which its validity and reliability was confirmed More
      AbstractThe purpose of this study was to assess organizational and personnel structure in Iranian Agriculture Extension System (IAES). The research instrument was a structural questionnaire including close-ended questions which its validity and reliability was confirmed by using expert panel and Cranach’s alpha test, respectively. The statistical population of this research included all public extension managers who are responsible for doing extension activities in Iran’s townships and provinces (N=365). According to Krejcie and Morgan’s table, a number of 198 extension managers of townships selected as statistical sample in a stratified sampling method based on classification of provinces by the Jihad-e-Agriculture ministry. Also, for gathering data among extension mangers of provinces was used census method. Finally, 222 public extension mangers in township and province levels participated in this research (n=222). Overall, extension mangers stated that organizational and personnel structure in IAES was not suitable. The other results also indicated there was the significantly positive relationship between selected demographic characteristics of extension managers with their viewpoint about organizational and personnel structure in IAES. These results highlight the need for the reform of organizational and personnel structure in IAES. Manuscript profile
    • Open Access Article

      10 - Analysis of Farmers’ Feedback on Agricultural Development Project’s (ADP’S) Performances in Kogi State, Nigeria
      Adejo Grace Saliu J. Adejo P. Emmanuel
      his study investigated the farmers’ feedback on Agricultural Development Project’s (ADP’s) performance. The study was carried out in Kogi State, Nigeria. Interview schedules were used to collect data from 160 contact farmers and 80 field extension work More
      his study investigated the farmers’ feedback on Agricultural Development Project’s (ADP’s) performance. The study was carried out in Kogi State, Nigeria. Interview schedules were used to collect data from 160 contact farmers and 80 field extension workers who were randomly selected using multistage random sampling techniques. The data collected were subjected to both descriptive and non-parametric statistics. Result shows that both extension agents and farmers highly rated information on credit use (x = 2.63), and both also highly rated credits (x = 2.58) in terms of material technology needs. However, Mann Withney U statistic analysis shows that there was significant (P < 0.05) difference between the perception of farmers and extension agent on the level of information needs of contact farmers implying that the extensionists did know the priority needs of farmers. Farmers claimed that the area of extension messages that were considered effective includes: improved seed/seedlings (x = 2.11), pesticides/insecticides application (x = 2.27), use of herbicides (x = 2.24) and markets/market prices (x = 2.25). This study therefore recommends that effort should be made by extension service providers to improve on areas of farmers identified perceived information/material needs such as credit use, tractor hiring, fertilizer supply, pesticides and improved breeds of chicken while training and better remuneration package be put in place to enhance extension workers performance/productivity. Manuscript profile
    • Open Access Article

      11 - Mechanisms for the Development of Human Resources in Khouzestan Sugarcane Agro Industrial Company
      Neda Nasir pour Azadeh N. Noorivandi
      The purpose of this research was identifying mechanisms for the development of human resources in Khouzestan sugarcane agro industrial company, Iran. This is an applied study and the research method was descriptive correlative. The population consisted of employees work More
      The purpose of this research was identifying mechanisms for the development of human resources in Khouzestan sugarcane agro industrial company, Iran. This is an applied study and the research method was descriptive correlative. The population consisted of employees working in the sugarcane agro industrial company in the province of Khuzestan, Iran(N=315). One hundred and seventy five people were selected as a sample size by using Krejcie and Morgan table. The questionnaire was pre-tested among 30 people and Cronbach alpha between 0.837-0.978 was determined. The main tool was a questionnaire. In this study, after the collection and classification of data, according to the type of research in two stages using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were taken. All data processing and statistical analysis was performed using the software SPSS20. For analysis data, correlative coefficients and factor analysis were used. Based on the results of factor analysis the factors were categorized into three main components, which have been named social and professional factors, educational and infrastructural factor, information and participation factor. The obtained results from the factor analysis revealed that the three mentioned factors explained 74.599% of the variation of mechanisms for the development of human resources in Khouzestan sugar cane agro-industry. The first group which is labeled social and professional factor had the most eigen value (7.513). Also, this factor explained 30.054% of the total variances of the variables. The second group, labeled educational and infrastructural factor, with eigen value 7.475 explained 29.9% of the total variances of the variables. Manuscript profile
    • Open Access Article

      12 - Effects of Agricultural Practices and Socio-economic Characteristics on Biodiversity in Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria
      Gyanden Kughur Mtimbir Iornenge Ismaila Shuaibu
      The study assessed the effects of agricultural practices on biodiversity in Olamaboro Local Government Are of Kogi State, Nigeria. One hundred and fifty (150) farmers (respondents) were sampled using simple random sampling technique from five council wards (30 farmers p More
      The study assessed the effects of agricultural practices on biodiversity in Olamaboro Local Government Are of Kogi State, Nigeria. One hundred and fifty (150) farmers (respondents) were sampled using simple random sampling technique from five council wards (30 farmers per council ward). Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Logit regression model. Results showed that 63% of the respondents were male, 56% were between 21-40 years, 61% were married, 46% were farmers, 58% acquired their land by inheritance with 24% having farming experience of 11-15 years and 37% owned a farm size of between 1.01-2.0 hectares. Biodiversity was mostly lost through application of herbicides 36%, losses were more significant on species 48%, and use of agrochemical affected biodiversity most 43%. The results of Logit regression revealed that sex and land acquisition were some of the socio-economic characteristics that significantly affected biodiversity losses (p<0.10). It is recommended that agricultural practices with minimum disturbance to biodiversity should be practiced. Manuscript profile
    • Open Access Article

      13 - Analysis of Factors That Motivate Agricultural Extension Agents in Abia State Agricultural Development Programme (ADP)
      Joy Arisa Kelechi Osondu
      The study analyzed factors that motivate agricultural extension agents in Agricultural Development Programme of Abia State. Primary data were collected from 96 extension agents in Abia State, Nigeria who were selected using multi-stage random sampling technique. Data we More
      The study analyzed factors that motivate agricultural extension agents in Agricultural Development Programme of Abia State. Primary data were collected from 96 extension agents in Abia State, Nigeria who were selected using multi-stage random sampling technique. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, mean score, ordered logit and Spearman rank correlation. It was revealed that 58.3% of the extension agents were in medium motivation level. Result of the ordered logit regression revealed that salary, work incentive, job security and allowance exerted positive significant influence on extension agents’ motivation level, while work load exerted a negative significant influence. The Spearman rank correlation analysis revealed that level of motivation of extension agents was positively correlated with their age and education level but negatively correlated with their home distance from work location at p˂0.01. Constraints faced by majority of the extension agents were delay/infrequent payment of salary (84.34%), poor linkage between research centres and extension organizations (78.12%), illiteracy among farmers (72.92%), inadequate funding (72.92%) and inadequate equipment/tools (71.88%). It was recommended that the management board of extension agencies in Abia State in collaboration with the state government should design appropriate incentive mechanism for extra working hours and weekend tasks of extension agents and also create a system whereby excellent job performance by extension agents could be rewarded and motivated. These will attract, retain and motivate extension agents to better performance. Manuscript profile
    • Open Access Article

      14 - Perceived Effectiveness of Agricultural Extension Methods Used to Disseminate Improved Technologies to Rice Farmers in Kogi State, Nigeria
      Tijani Abdulhamid Ahmed Rashid Solagberun Adisa
      The study assessed the perceived effectiveness of agricultural extension methods used to disseminate improved technologies to rice farmers in kogi state, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to describe the socio – economic characteristics of the rice farmers, to More
      The study assessed the perceived effectiveness of agricultural extension methods used to disseminate improved technologies to rice farmers in kogi state, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to describe the socio – economic characteristics of the rice farmers, to assessed farmers level of contact with extension agents, perceived level of competence of extension agents to perform agricultural extension activities and farmers perception on the effectiveness of agricultural extension methods in the study area. Primary and secondary data were used for the study. Data were collected using a well structured questionnaire from 212 rice farmers in the study area. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results showed that 59.9% of the respondents were male, with a mean age of 43.5 years. Majorities (58%) of the respondents were married and about 44.3% of them had more than 20 years of farming experience. About 99.1% of the farmers were aware of the existence of extension agents in their area and 87.7% were visited fortnightly. Also, extension agents were perceived to be more competent in performing field demonstration activities and the individual contact method was perceived as the most effective extension teaching method in the study area. It is recommended that the extension agents should do more in contacting more female rice farmers as well as male rice farmers; the extension agents should use variety of extension methods appropriately in order to meet specific extension objectives and to ensure effective use of limited resources, personnel, time and fund which ensure farmers participation. Manuscript profile
    • Open Access Article

      15 - Effects of Communal Crises on Selected Crops Production among Farmers in Langtang North Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria
      Gyanden Kughur Shimayohol Daudu Mtimbir Iornenege
      The study investigated the effects of communal crises on selected crops production among farmers in Langtang North local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling technique was adopted; four local government areas were selected in each of the local More
      The study investigated the effects of communal crises on selected crops production among farmers in Langtang North local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling technique was adopted; four local government areas were selected in each of the local government selected, four villages affected by communal crises were selected purposively. In two of the villages selected, 24 respondents each (people affected by communal crises) were selected and 25 respondents each were also selected randomly in the other two villages giving a total of 98 respondents. Primary data were collected through administration of structured questionnaire; data gathered were analyzed by descriptive statistics and correlation. The findings revealed that 38.8% communal crises were caused by religion, 43.9% communal crises leads to loss of lives, 87.8% used assorted types of guns during communal crises and there was significant reduction in quantity and value of money on crops produced before and after communal crises. The study recommends that government should implement white paper reports on communal crises and religious organizations should continually organize inter-religious group public enlightenment programmes to encourage peaceful co-existence among believers of different faiths. Manuscript profile
    • Open Access Article

      16 - Analysis of Processing Methods, Marketing Channels and Profitability Determinants of Selected Cassava Products in Kogi State, Nigeria.
      Daniel Ekpa Segun Adeola Umar Mukhtar Mary Ekpa
      The study is an analysis of processing methods, marketing channels, and profitability determinants of selected cassava products in Kogi state, Nigeria. The study was carried out in Kogi East senatorial District of the state. A multi-stage sampling technique was employed More
      The study is an analysis of processing methods, marketing channels, and profitability determinants of selected cassava products in Kogi state, Nigeria. The study was carried out in Kogi East senatorial District of the state. A multi-stage sampling technique was employed in the selection of 120 respondents from whom information were collected and analyzed. The data used for the study were collected using structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and profit function analysis. The study showed that there are three processing methods and three marketing channels for each of the cassava products selected. The study also showed that the variable costs and fixed costs were both significant in profit determination. The study concluded that processing and marketing activities of cassava products are prominent are profitable in the study area. It was recommended that the capital base of the respondents be boosted so that they can use modern processing and packaging techniques. Manuscript profile
    • Open Access Article

      17 - Socio-Economic Improvement of Women: An Impact Evaluation of Womens' Involvement with Integrated Farming Systems in Bangladesh
      Nahid Anjuman Md. Abdul Momen Miah Rufiqunnessa Ali Mohammed Nasir Uddin
      Socio-economic improvement of rural people especially women is one of the challenges in Bangladesh. While integrated farming system is the potential area of working opportunity of the women to improve their socio-economic conditions. Considering this issue, this paper w More
      Socio-economic improvement of rural people especially women is one of the challenges in Bangladesh. While integrated farming system is the potential area of working opportunity of the women to improve their socio-economic conditions. Considering this issue, this paper was to examine the improvement of socio-economic status of women with increased participation in so-called “Integrated Farming Systems (IFS)”. Using a structured interview methodology, 100 women in the REGION involved with IFS practices were surveyed. Descriptive statistics and student’s t-test were used to analyze and interpret the collected data. A significant improvement of different socio-economic indicators like income, food consumption, housing, source of drinking water, sanitation, family asset, education and access to health facilities’ of women have found due to farming system involvement. This improvement may be significantly influenced to reduce the rural poverty and this finding might be good example for another region. Less extension contact by SAAOs of DAE regarding involvement with integrated farming system was the most severe problem while non-cooperation of family members was the least problem of involvement with integrated farming system. These results may provide policy makers and development service providers with important insight, which can be used for sound policy generations for better women’s socioeconomic improvement. Manuscript profile
    • Open Access Article

      18 - Comparative Analysis of Profitability of Cassava Production among Agricultural Development Programme (Adp) and Non-Adp Contact Cassava Farmers in Abia State, Nigeria
      Kelechi Charles Osondu
      This study was conducted in Abia state, Nigeria with specific objectives to: describe socio economic characteristics of ADP and non-ADP contact farmers; estimate profitability level of the two farmer groups; compare profitability of cassava production among the two farm More
      This study was conducted in Abia state, Nigeria with specific objectives to: describe socio economic characteristics of ADP and non-ADP contact farmers; estimate profitability level of the two farmer groups; compare profitability of cassava production among the two farmer groups; determine factors that influence profitability of ADP and non-ADP contact cassava farmers and identify problems constraining the cassava farmers. Multistage sampling technique was used to select respondents. Data collected using structured questionnaire and interview schedule were analysed using descriptive statistics, cost and returns analysis, paired t-test and ordinary least square regression technique. The paired-t-test result showed that ADP contact cassava farmers had a statistically significant higher net return (N93, 638.6) per hectare of cassava production than non-ADP contact farmers (N65, 715.58). Factors that influenced profitability of cassava production among ADP contact farmers were age, variable costs, education and selling price while factors that influenced profitability of cassava production among non-ADP contact farmers were age, farming experience and selling price. Main constraint to cassava production among the ADP and non-ADP cassava farmers was inadequate access to credit. It was recommended that the scope of Agricultural Development Programme (ADP) in the state should be enlarged to accommodate more cassava farmers as evidence showed that ADP impacted positively on profitability of cassava production. To this end, additional skilled manpower should be employed and encouraged to visit more farmers on regular basis to teach them modern agricultural technologies. Manuscript profile
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      19 - Analysis Gender Role and Factors Affecting Soil and Water Conservation Adoption in Kersa Districts of Eastern Hararghe Zone, Ethiopia: The Case of Fanya Juu, Soil and Stone Bund Measure
      Jafer Ahmed
      Soil conservation is the only known way to protect the productive land. In country like Ethiopia, where droughts and floods cause food scarcity problem, soil and water conservation not only increases crop yield, but also prevents further deterioration of land. Soil and More
      Soil conservation is the only known way to protect the productive land. In country like Ethiopia, where droughts and floods cause food scarcity problem, soil and water conservation not only increases crop yield, but also prevents further deterioration of land. Soil and water conservation preserve soil moisture and drain water sustainably to avoid soil erosion and depletion of soil nutrients. So that, the main objectives of this study is to analysis factors affecting soil and water conservation adoption and to identify gender role in soil and water conservation practice in the study area. Both primary and secondary data were collected for the study. The data were collected by means of a semi-structured questionnaire during the period of January 20-February 20/ 2017. The study implemented binary logit model to identify factor affecting adoption of soil and water conservation. Level of formal education, market distance, labor force, slope of the farm land and size of livestock were significant variables which are found to affect the soil and water conservation of household in study area. Level of education was related with adoption of conservation structures, because literate farmers are in a better position to get information and use it in such a way that it contribute to their soil and water conservation than illiterate ones. Therefore, designating and implementing adult education should be encouraged by the government. In addition, soil bunds, Fanya juu and stone bunds are the major soil and water conservation measures that are widely implemented by farmers in the area. Manuscript profile
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      20 - Constraints and Adoption of Practices in poultry production in the Northern Agricultural Zone of Delta State, Nigeria
      Ajieh Chuks C. O Oyibojoba
      This study examined constraints and adoption in poultry production in the Northern Agricultural Zone of Delta State, Nigeria. A sample size of 80 respondents comprising of supervisors of selected farms was used for the study. Data were collected in March 2017 through th More
      This study examined constraints and adoption in poultry production in the Northern Agricultural Zone of Delta State, Nigeria. A sample size of 80 respondents comprising of supervisors of selected farms was used for the study. Data were collected in March 2017 through the use of a structured and validated questionnaire. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, mean score, standard deviation and percentage were used to summarize data. Results of the study reveal that major constraints to poultry production include: high cost of veterinary services (M = 2.32), high cost of poultry feeds (M = 2.30), lack of credit facilities (M =2.30) and high cost of poultry equipment (M = 2.18). There was high adoption of the following poultry production practices: adequate preparation of the poultry house before arrival of chicks (90%), restriction of sudden entry into the poultry house (93.8%), provision of adequate ventilation (87.5%), provision of clean water without restriction (86.3%) and regular cleaning of drinkers and feeders (83.8%). Strategies identified in this study for enhancing poultry production include: qualified personnel should be used to manage poultry farms (M = 3.19), provision of credit facilities (M = 2.95), subsidy on poultry feeds and equipment (M = 2.91), and the removal of duty on importation of raw materials for poultry feeds formulation (M = 2.69). Furthermore, a significant difference in the mean scores of constraints to poultry production and adoption of poultry production practices implies that constraints affect the adoption of practices in poultry production. Manuscript profile
    • Open Access Article

      21 - Training Needs of Agricultural Extension Agents in Delta State, Nigeria
      Ajieh P. C Ulakpa J. E
      This study examined the training needs of agricultural extension agents in Delta State, Nigeria. A sample of 102 respondents was drawn from extension agents in the States’ Agricultural Development Programme (ADP), Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources (MAN More
      This study examined the training needs of agricultural extension agents in Delta State, Nigeria. A sample of 102 respondents was drawn from extension agents in the States’ Agricultural Development Programme (ADP), Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources (MANR) and the FADAMA Programme. Data were collected in February 2017 by using a structured and validated questionnaire. Data generated were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Mean scores, percentage, frequency count and standard deviation were used to summarize data, while Spearman Rank Order correlation coefficient (rho) was used to determine the relationship between competence and training needs of extension agents. Results reveal that extension agents are competent in the following professional skills: teaching farmers, public speaking, determination of farmers’ needs and planning extension programmes. It was also found that extension agents need training in some professional skills which include: production of teaching aids, planning excursion and field trips, providing market information and simplifying agricultural research results. Constraints to training of agricultural extension agents identified by the study include: poor funding, high cost of training, poor training incentives and limited training opportunities. A strong relationship was found between extension agents’ competence and their training needs. This study therefore recommends that training opportunities should be created by relevant agencies to enable extension agents improve their competence and performance. Also, constraints to training identified in this study should be tackled to allow for sustainable training programmes. Manuscript profile
    • Open Access Article

      22 - Agrobiodiversity Conservation Techniques Adopted By Rural Farmers in Kware Local Government Area Nigeria
      Aliyu Akilu Barau James Abbah Michael
      The study examined agrobiodiversity conservation techniques adopted by rural farmers in Kware Local Government Area, Nigeria. Multistage sampling procedure was used to arrive at 120 farmers from three selected villages. Forty (40) interview schedule were administered in More
      The study examined agrobiodiversity conservation techniques adopted by rural farmers in Kware Local Government Area, Nigeria. Multistage sampling procedure was used to arrive at 120 farmers from three selected villages. Forty (40) interview schedule were administered in each of the sampled villages. Descriptive statistics was used to analyse the primary data collected. Results of the findings showed that most of the farmers (25.0%) were in their active age with fairly large family size (6-10 persons). Majority were married (90.8%) with most of them having secondary education (33.3%) or less and earning between N101, 000 - N200, 000 annually. Most of the farmers conserve animals using random mating (30.8%). On the other hand, 43.3 percent conserve plants by practicing collection and preservation of seeds. The major challenge faced by the farmers was insufficient capital (43.3%). Government and NGOs need to educate and provided necessary support to the farmers who practice agrobiodiversity conservation. Manuscript profile
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      23 - Determinants of Adoption of Improved Maize Varieties in Zabzugu-Tatale Districts in the Northern Region of Ghana: A Case Study of Obaatanpa Variety
      Wahab Ibn Hassan Hamza Adam Osman Damba Tahidu
      Low yield of maize continues to affect the livelihood of smallholder farmers in the Zabzugu-Tatale area despite the introduction of a high yielding Obatanpa maize variety. The study used a cross-sectional survey design with 240 randomly sampled household heads growing m More
      Low yield of maize continues to affect the livelihood of smallholder farmers in the Zabzugu-Tatale area despite the introduction of a high yielding Obatanpa maize variety. The study used a cross-sectional survey design with 240 randomly sampled household heads growing maize to examine determinants of adoption of Obatampa varieties (IMVs) by farmers in the Zabzugu-Tatale area in the Northern Region of Ghana. A binary logistic model was used to examine the factors that determine the adoption of Obatanpa maize variety by farmers in Zabzugu-Tatale. The results showed a high (58.8%) level of adoption of Obatanpa in the study area. The logistic regression analysis shows that sex, household size, number of years of education of the household head, membership to FBOs, farm size, farmers’ awareness of Obatanpa, access to credit and access to extension service had a positive significant relationship with the adoption of Obatanpa maize variety. Age, however, had an inversely significant relationship with the adoption of Obatanpa maize variety. The paper recommends that MoFA should mandate the formation of FBOs to enhance farmers’ access to resources. MoFA needs to also work with private partners to increase farmers’ access to credit facilities at low interest. Manuscript profile
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      24 - Analysis of Farm Management Extension Services Performed by Extension Agents of Agricultural Development Projects in Southwest Nigeria
      Rashid Adisa Mudashir Mustapha Kayode Balogun Hussein Ibrahim Waliyat Oloyede
      The study analyzed farm management extension services (FMESs) performed by the extension agents of Agricultural Development Projects in South West Nigeria. Study representatives were sampled randomly from Oyo ADP, Osun ADP and Ekiti ADP, making a 50% representation of t More
      The study analyzed farm management extension services (FMESs) performed by the extension agents of Agricultural Development Projects in South West Nigeria. Study representatives were sampled randomly from Oyo ADP, Osun ADP and Ekiti ADP, making a 50% representation of the South-West. A proportionate sample of 80% of the total of the extension agents in each of the 3 case studies was randomly selected; making a total sample of 164 respondents for the study. Data were analyzed using simple descriptive statistics such as frequency counts, percentages and mean. Findings revealed that majority (76.8%) of the respondents were males, had higher certificates than ND (92.7%) and supervised more than 199 farmers (61.6%). However, more than half of the respondents were still new in the extension work with working experience of between 1-10 years (55.5%). The results further showed that only few of the change agents performed farm management tasks related to finance and marketing. The major constraints facing the extension agents in performing FMESs in the study area were lack of incentives, farmers’ illiteracy and inadequate training ranking 1st, 2nd and 3rd respectively. This study recommends that extension agents should be trained more in the core aspects of FMESs which include linkage to finance and marketing. Also, extension professionals should be well motivated with incentives to ensure that FMESs are adequately rendered to their clients for increased productivity. Manuscript profile
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      25 - Impact of Farmer Field Schools on Farmer`s Adoption of Wheat Production Technical Packages in Gezira Scheme, Sudan
      Ahmed Mirghani Abdel Rahman Wisal Abd Ebrahim Babiker Mohammed
      The main objective of this study was to assess the impact of farmer field schools on adoption of technical packages of wheat production in Gezira Scheme, Sudan. Field survey was used to collect data from 50 FFS-participants of two schools (25 from each school), and also More
      The main objective of this study was to assess the impact of farmer field schools on adoption of technical packages of wheat production in Gezira Scheme, Sudan. Field survey was used to collect data from 50 FFS-participants of two schools (25 from each school), and also equal number from Non-FFS participants were selected for comparison. Close ended questionnaire was used in data collection. The data were statistically analyzed using (SPSS), discussed interpreted using percentage, frequency distribution and chi-squire test. The descriptive analyses showed that the FFS-participants were adopted the application of wheat production technical packages: land preparation ( First :86%, second:74%) , method of land preparation (92%),use of recommended wheat varieties (92%), seed rate(66%) , seed treatment with gaucho (86%), sowing date ( 76%), fertilizers rates(66%) ,number of irrigations(82%) , harvesting time (52%).The chi-square test showed significant association between farmer`s adoption of wheat production technical packages and their participation in FFS weekly training. From this study it can be concluded that the FFS is very effective agricultural extension approach which can be adopted to transfer knowledge, recommended cultural practices of agricultural crops to farmers, and consequently increase income of them through their participation in various FFS activities. The study recommends that FFS should become national policy, share authority of extension organizations in finance, control and execution of FFS activities with farmer unions and other partners for more effective participations of farmers in all activities of the schools and the current curriculum of FFS should be developed. Manuscript profile
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      26 - Identify Variables Affecting Rural Participation in Forest Cooperatives (A case study of Ilam city)
      Amin Ghorbani Mohsen Mousaei Mohammadbagher Arayesh
      Thecurrent research is an applied research, which uses field data and descriptive-correlation and causal-correlation design to analyzing the relationships between variables. This study was an attempt to identify variables affecting rural participation in cooperatives fo More
      Thecurrent research is an applied research, which uses field data and descriptive-correlation and causal-correlation design to analyzing the relationships between variables. This study was an attempt to identify variables affecting rural participation in cooperatives forest by-products in Ilam. Population of this research is exploiters of forests in Ilam. The number of cooperatives and number of members were 38 and 1300 people. Based on Krejcie and Morgantables, 297 members were selected for this study through stratified random sampling. A questionnaire, which an expert panel guaranteed the validity of it, was data collection instrument. By using Cronbach alpha, the reliability of the questionnaire was measured. Cornbach alpha coefficient was 0.91. The results of Spearman's coefficient of correlation indicated that there is a significant correlation between age, work experience, level of education, ownership of agrarians, extension contacts, attitude to cooperative, trend to participation, distance to nearest agriculture services, social capital, legislation and support legal, cooperative management, level of income, capital, the use of resources of information, and social status with their participation. The results of step-wise multivariate regression showed that age and level of education, ownership of agrarians, extension contacts and social status totally indicate 51.2 % of changes in people's participation. Manuscript profile
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      27 - Comparative Analysis of Shea-butter Production Techniques Used among Women Processors in Baruten and Ilorin-South Areas, Kwara State, Nigeria
      Abdulrazaq Daudu Felix Oladipo Fadekemi Awosusi
      The study compared the shea-butter production techniques used among women processors in Baruten and Ilorin-South Local Government Areas of Kwara State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling technique was used to elicit information from 120 respondents through a structured inte More
      The study compared the shea-butter production techniques used among women processors in Baruten and Ilorin-South Local Government Areas of Kwara State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling technique was used to elicit information from 120 respondents through a structured interview schedule with questionnaire. Data were analyzed with both descriptive and inferential statistics. The mean age of the respondents in Baruten and Ilorin-South were 38.4years and 37.9 years respectively. Some 58.0% and 50.3% of the respondents had no formal education in Baruten and Ilorin-South respectively. Findings revealed that about 76.7% and 95.0% of respondents in Baruten and Ilorin-South respectively used traditional method, 16.7% and 5.0% of respondents in Baruten and Ilorin-South respectively used modern method while 6.6% of respondents in Baruten and none in Ilorin-South used both methods. However, both respondents in Baruten (63.3%) and Ilorin-South (66.7%) considered modern method as the best shear butter processing technique that is efficient and reduces drudgery. Also, majority (68.3) of respondents in Baruten LGA earned above N20,000 monthly while 56.7% of respondents in Ilorin-South earned less. Further results revealed that inadequate credit facilities were the major constraint of the processors in Baruten and Ilorin-South. It was concluded that the quantity of Shea butter produce in Baruten was more than their counterparts in Ilorin-South and this may be due to abundant of Shea nuts in Baruten. It is recommended that modern techniques of Shea butter processing should be encouraged and planting of more Shea tree is practiced among the processors and thus increasing Shea butter production. Manuscript profile
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      28 - Determinants of Credit Access by Small Scale Farmers in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria
      Sunday Onalo Adejoh Obe Christopher Adah
      This study is on the determinants of credit access by small scale farmers in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. The specific objectives are to; identify the major source of credit among the small scale farmers; estimate the determinants of farmers&rsqu More
      This study is on the determinants of credit access by small scale farmers in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. The specific objectives are to; identify the major source of credit among the small scale farmers; estimate the determinants of farmers’ access to formal credit; compare the farm income of farmers who have access to formal credit and those who have not and identify constraints to farmers’ access to credit. A total of 120 respondents was selected through random sampling technique. Primary data obtained through questionnaire administration were analysed using descriptive statistics, binary logistic regression model, t-test and mean score. Findings of this study revealed that the major source of credit to finance agricultural production was the informal credit source-money lenders (76.7%). Estimates of the binary logit regression model revealed a significant chi-squared value at 1%. The marginal effect of membership of cooperative society, experience, farm size, extension contact and distance to credit source significantly determined the probability of small scale farmers’ access to credit at 5%. Expectedly, farmers who had access to formal credit recorded significant increase in farm income to those who had not. Constraints to farmers’ access to formal credit source include inadequate collateral security (mean score=2.9), bureaucracy (mean score=2.8), high interest rate (mean score=2.7). That of informal credit source included high interest rate (mean score=2.6) and low level of lending (mean score=2.5). The study recommended deliberate policy to ensure that rural farmers have access to adequate credit facilities for improved agricultural production. Manuscript profile
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      29 - Smallholder Farmers’ Participation in Agricultural Training and Demonstration in Ethiopia: Implications for Inclusive Targeting by Agricultural Extension Services
      Muluken Wordofa Maria Sassi
      Small farms and smallholder farming systems play crucial roles in agricultural development in many developing countries. From the various rural development programs designed to support such farming systems, agricultural extension services are of at most importance. Howe More
      Small farms and smallholder farming systems play crucial roles in agricultural development in many developing countries. From the various rural development programs designed to support such farming systems, agricultural extension services are of at most importance. However, the benefit that farmers obtain from these services and the resulting impact depends, to a great extent, by their direct and indirect participation in the services. In this paper, we examined the predictors of participation in agricultural training and demonstration in Haramaya district of eastern Ethiopia. By collecting data from 180 rural households, and employing the Poisson regression, we found that several factors explain farmers’ differential participation in agricultural training and demonstration. In particular, financial capital (farm income, credit), physical capital (value of livestock, value of household asset), and access to services (e.g., veterinary, experience with extension) were significant predictors of participation in agricultural training. Concerning demonstration, human capital (age), physical capital (asset, land), financial capital (farm income, off-farm employment), social capital (networks), and access to services had a significant effect. Based on the findings, some implications for inclusive targeting by agricultural extension programs were put forward. Manuscript profile
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      30 - Effectiveness of Microcredit Fund Scheme in Economic Empowerment of Rural Women in Tehran Province
      Samira Saadat Salehi Abri Mehrdad Niknami
      Microcredit scheme is an important poverty alleviation method that facilitates the development of rural communities by creating and developing income-generating activities, especially for low-income women. The present study was aimed to examine the effectiveness of the More
      Microcredit scheme is an important poverty alleviation method that facilitates the development of rural communities by creating and developing income-generating activities, especially for low-income women. The present study was aimed to examine the effectiveness of the microcredit fund scheme on the economic empowerment of rural women in Tehran Province, Iran. It was carried out by a survey methodology. The statistical population was composed of 461 women who were members of 15 rural microcredit funds in Tehran Province in 2014. The sample size was determined by Krejcie and Morgan table and the population was sampled by the proportionate simple random method. Finally, 210 questionnaires were collected. The results revealed significant differences in economic capability between member women with different educational levels. Also, rural women’s economic capability differed significantly in income, saving power, saving management, initiation of income-generating lasting occupations, financial independence, purchase power, possession of vocational skills to start and continue a production activity, and economic skills before and after membership in rural microcredit funds. Manuscript profile
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      31 - Farmers’ Perception of Effectiveness of Agricultural Extension Agents in Anambra State, Nigeria
      Hyacinth Nwalieji Nneamaka Nnabueze
      The study assessed farmers’ perception of effectiveness of agricultural extension agents in Anambra State, Nigeria. The population of the study comprised all contact farmers and extension agents in Anambra State. Multi-stage, purposive and simple random sampling t More
      The study assessed farmers’ perception of effectiveness of agricultural extension agents in Anambra State, Nigeria. The population of the study comprised all contact farmers and extension agents in Anambra State. Multi-stage, purposive and simple random sampling techniques were used to select 200 respondents comprising 160 farmers and 40 extension agents. Data for the study were collected through the use of interview schedule and questionnaire. Descriptive statistics such as frequency count, percentage and mean score were used in presenting and analyzing the data. The findings revealed that majority of the farmers were women, literate and the mean age was 54.27 years with an average farming experience of 18.98 years. Farmers’ number of contact with extension agents and level of education were found to make significant contribution to farmers’ perception of agricultural extension agents’ quality. The level of adoption of new technologies by farmer was generally high (5.58). Agricultural extension service in Anambra State was not effective, which implies that extension service in the State was poor and weak. The identified constraints that hinder the performance of agricultural extension agents included inadequate vehicles for transportation, poor office accommodation, poor remuneration, poor funding, high level of farmers’ illiteracy, and insufficient motivation of extension agents among others. The need for regular training of extension agents so as to develop more skills and technicalities in disseminating farm technologies to farmers was recommended. Manuscript profile
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      32 - Knowledge Level of Rice Farmers Regarding Cultivation Practices In Mahanawiyah district, AL-Qadisiya Province, Iraq
      Bassim Kshash
      Productivity of most common Iraqi rice cultivar was low compared to an average production among major rice-producing countries, this may be due to inadequacy of knowledge and skills of rice farmers about rice cultivation practices. The study was conducted in Mahanawiyah More
      Productivity of most common Iraqi rice cultivar was low compared to an average production among major rice-producing countries, this may be due to inadequacy of knowledge and skills of rice farmers about rice cultivation practices. The study was conducted in Mahanawiyah district of AL-Qadisiya Province in Iraq, to assess knowledge level of rice farmers about some rice cultivation practices .The study was conducted with 125 rice farmers selected through random sampling. A structured questionnaire and face-to-face interviews were used to collect data. The findings revealed that half of respondents had medium knowledge level about rice cultivation practices. The respondents have a high level of knowledge in aspect of land preparation and medium level in aspects of marketing, harvesting and post harvesting, fertilization, seed and seedling, and water management. Significant correlation was investigated between respondent’s knowledge and educational attainment, years of experience in rice cultivation and annual revenue from rice cultivation. There is a significant difference between knowledge level of respondents depending on these characteristics. For increasing rice production and productivity, improved and scientific rice cultivation practices should be diffused and application by rice farmers. Manuscript profile
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      33 - Understanding Roles of Different Stakeholders Influencing the Use of Mobile Phones to Access Agricultural Information: A Case of Kilolo and Kilosa Districts, Tanzania
      Siwel Nyamba Malongo Mlozi
      The study investigated the roles of different stakeholders influencing the use of mobile phones in accessing agricultural information in Tanzania. While information is becoming an important ingredient in agriculture, farmers in Tanzania suffer the problem of lacking acc More
      The study investigated the roles of different stakeholders influencing the use of mobile phones in accessing agricultural information in Tanzania. While information is becoming an important ingredient in agriculture, farmers in Tanzania suffer the problem of lacking access to agricultural information. Promisingly, mobile phone technology has become the most valued infrastructure which gives people access to information and services they need. Actually, the subscription of mobile phones in Tanzania is ubiquitous and is ever-growing. However, many farmers are not fully utilizing the potential that the technology prevails. There is an apparent disparity between mobile phone subscriptions which is increasingly being adopted on one hand and their uptake into farming practices. The question is, why farmers not fully utilizing the potential the technology prevails in agriculture and how could they be helped? The research adopted a multi-stage sampling technique whereby, initially two districts were purposively selected followed by a simple random sampling technique to obtain 240 respondents. Data collection methods used was: interviews, key informants interviews, and focus group discussions. Quantitative data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social (SPSS), whereby some descriptive statistics including frequencies, means, percentages and standard deviations were determined. Chi-square tests and regression analysis were also performed to test for the relationship between variables and rule out variables that are the best predictors, respectively. Manuscript profile
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      34 - Profitability Analysis and Constraints to Pepper (Capsicum Sp) Marketing in Ijumu Local Government Area, Kogi State, Nigeria
      Ufedo Shaibu Felix Oyibo Stephen Ibitoye
      The study analyzed the profitability and constraints to pepper marketing in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. A multi-stage random sampling technique was used to select 75 pepper marketers from the list of registered pepper marketers with the pepper ma More
      The study analyzed the profitability and constraints to pepper marketing in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. A multi-stage random sampling technique was used to select 75 pepper marketers from the list of registered pepper marketers with the pepper marketing association in the study area. Structured questionnaire was used to collect the required information. Descriptive statistics, Net profit and mean score were used to analyze the data collected. Results showed that the mean age of pepper marketers was 34 years and majority, (60%) of the marketers were married, well experience in marketing with a mean household size of 12 persons. Also, Atarodo (Capsicum annum) was the most common varieties of pepper which are marketed fresh in the area. The net return on pepper marketing in the study area was N1.05 which is an indication of profitability of the business. The study further revealed high cost of transportation (mean score= 2.92), lack of storage facilities (mean score= 2.80) and lack of processing facilities (mean score= 2.72) as the major problems facing pepper marketing enterprise in the area. The study recommends government should provide good feeder roads network to ease transportation of perishable agricultural produce like pepper in the area, storage and processing facilities should be made adequate to enhance marketing. Manuscript profile
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      35 - Effects of Adoption of Improved Maize Technology on Yield among Smallholder Maize Farmers in the Bawku West District of Upper East Region of Ghana
      John Akumbole Hamza Adam Hudu Zakaria
      For over a decade now improved maize technology constituting a package of fourteen production recommendations have been developed and disseminated to maize farmers in the Bawku West district of the Upper East region through the district department of agriculture. This p More
      For over a decade now improved maize technology constituting a package of fourteen production recommendations have been developed and disseminated to maize farmers in the Bawku West district of the Upper East region through the district department of agriculture. This paper presents findings of a study conducted to assess the level of adoption of these production recommendations and its effect on yield among smallholder farmers in the district. Through multi-stage sampling techniques, 400 maize farmers were surveyed with personal interviews, focus group discussions and observations employed in gathering data. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed in analysing the data and results presented in tables and graphics. Many (44%) of the farmers surveyed were found to have been practicing most of the production recommendations. The study found significant and positive relationship between level of adoption and yield. Adoption of many production recommendations guarantees high yield. Also, age, gender, household size, farm size of maize credit, labour and experience were found as significant determinants of yield. Education and training aimed at improving farmers understanding and skills regarding the practice of maize production recommendations should be strengthened and organized regularly. Manuscript profile
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      36 - Determinants of Opportunity Recognition in the Pattern of Agricultural Tech Startups in Northern Provinces of Iran
      Mohammad Okhli Hossein Didehkhani Mohammad Sharif Sharifzadeh Seyed Mohammad Reza Hosseini
      Today, the role of start-ups in the new approach to the modern economy has received much attention. The purpose of this study was to present a model for identifying entrepreneurial opportunities for technology start-ups in agriculture in Northern Provinces of Iran. The More
      Today, the role of start-ups in the new approach to the modern economy has received much attention. The purpose of this study was to present a model for identifying entrepreneurial opportunities for technology start-ups in agriculture in Northern Provinces of Iran. The statistical population consisted of 318 founders and executives of tech start-ups. Using stratified random sampling method, 130 samples were selected. The data collection tools in this section included a researcher-made questionnaire containing a set of identified markers for effective factors in identifying opportunities. The face and content validity of the questionnaire was confirmed by experts' opinions and its reliability was confirmed by Cronbach's alpha (0.958). The dominant statistical method was structural equation modeling using partial least squares method implemented with Smart PLS software. The results showed that in the process of opportunity recognition, individual capability and previous knowledge on social network and social network on entrepreneurship ecosystem as well as entrepreneurship ecosystem have positive effect on opportunity recognition performance and on opportunity recognition performance on opportunity development, But the impact of prior knowledge and individual capability on the entrepreneurial ecosystem and the impact of the entrepreneurial ecosystem on opportunity development were not confirmed. According to the results, a model has been presented to identify the entrepreneurial opportunity of tech start-ups in agriculture. Manuscript profile
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      37 - Push and Pull Factors Promoting Agroforestry Tree Crop Uncontrolled Extraction on Rural Households in Delta State, Nigeria
      Theophilus Gbigbi
      The purpose of this study was to determine the push and pull factors promoting agroforestry tree crop depletion on rural household in Delta State. A multistage sampling technique was used. The sample size for the study was 120 farmers. The instrument for data collection More
      The purpose of this study was to determine the push and pull factors promoting agroforestry tree crop depletion on rural household in Delta State. A multistage sampling technique was used. The sample size for the study was 120 farmers. The instrument for data collection was questionnaire. The data collected were analyzed with descriptive statistics such as chart, means derived from 5-point likert scale and inferential statistics such as logistic regression model and multiple regression model. The results of the chart on the socioeconomic characteristics of the farmers showed that majority (62%) of the farmers were between the ages of 31-40 years. High proportion (79%) of the respondents were female. Majority (77%) of the respondents were married. Most (75%) of the respondents were formally educated. The modal class of respondents farming experience was 16-20 years. The logistic result revealed that age, household size and farm size were positively significant at 5% and 10% probability level while farm income, land tenure and level of education were negatively significant at 5% probability level respectively. The Cobb-Douglas function was chosen because it had the best fit. The coefficient of multiple determinations (R2) was 0.625. The multiple regression result showed that the variables firewood collection and tree logging were positive while bushfire and farm erosion were negative and significant at 1%, 5% and 10% probability level. The activities of deforestation should be discouraged through stringent environmental laws for sustainable agricultural production. Manuscript profile
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      38 - Organic Farming: Opportunities and Challenges in Sundarbazar, Lamjung, Nepal
      Anzali Gurung Ram Asheshwar Mandal Ajay Mathema
      This study was objectively done to assess the practice of organic farming and employment opportunities, compare the income generated from organic and inorganic products and identify the problems faced by farmers from organic farming system. Semi structure questionnaire More
      This study was objectively done to assess the practice of organic farming and employment opportunities, compare the income generated from organic and inorganic products and identify the problems faced by farmers from organic farming system. Semi structure questionnaire survey, questionnaire, key informant interview and market survey were done to collect primary data and these were analyzed. The result showed that, total 137 and 99 employments were created by organic and inorganic farming. The organic farmers use the compost but the inorganic farmers used the chemical fertilizers. Liquid extracted from garlic and Azadirachta indica was used as pesticides in organic farming. The highest price difference was. US$ 0.18 for cucumber i.e, while the price difference for organic cauliflower was US$ 0.09. Similarly, the price difference of broccoli was only US$ 0.04. But the organic and inorganic price of cabbage, spinach, garlic, coriander and radish were recorded US$ 0.43, US$ 0.09, US$ 1.30, US$ 0.09 and US$ 0.43 respectively. Rich organic farmers were earning US$ 8677.54 annually this was US$ 2603.26 by rich inorganic farmers. Similarly, medium organic farmers and inorganic farmers were earning US$ 3123.92 and US$ 1561.96 respectively while poor organic and inorganic farmers are earning US$ 650.82 and US$ 433.88 respectively. Unavailable of good seeds, lack of organic fertilizer, slow production in initial year, lack of government support, irrigation, price difference, haphazard use of fertilizers and pesticides were recorded as the major problems in organic and inorganic farming. This study will be useful to develop the policy. Manuscript profile
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      39 - Communication Behaviour of Farmers with the Agricultural Extension Agents Using Cell Phone: A Case of Bangladesh
      Mohammad Rahman Mohammed Uddin Md. Khan
      The cell phone is one of the potential Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) in agricultural development especially in developing countries like Bangladesh. Thus, this paper deals with the farmers’ communication with the agricultural extension agents using More
      The cell phone is one of the potential Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) in agricultural development especially in developing countries like Bangladesh. Thus, this paper deals with the farmers’ communication with the agricultural extension agents using mobile phone. The study was conducted in Mymensingh District in Bangladesh. Data were collected from a sample of 110 farmers while both descriptive and inferential analyses were used. The majority (53.64 percent) of the farmers had low cell phone contact while a good number (44.54 percent) of farmers had no cell phone contact, 1.82 percent had medium contact and no farmers had high cell phone contact with agricultural extension agents. Education, farm size, annual family income, extension contact, knowledge on ICT and cell phone use frequency correlated positively while only ‘age’ is correlated negatively to their cell phone contact with extension agents. Household size and organizational participation did not show any significant relationship. Small numbers of farmers were receiving information on seed, fertilizer, culture practices, pest control and market related through cell phone. Farmers’ communication preferences through cell phone comparatively were Sub Assistant Agriculture Officer (SAAO), Trained Farmers (TF) and Seed and Fertilizer Dealers. Lack of awareness on receiving information through cell phone, apathy to getting agricultural information through cell phone, poor knowledge about cell phone operation were the major problems of farmers’ communication with the agricultural extension agents using mobile phone. Respective authorities should encourage and train both farmers and extension agents to use mobile phone as easy, low cost and popular communication medium. Manuscript profile
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      40 - Opportunities for Facebook to Improve Knowledge Transfer to Farmers and Enhance Agricultural Extension
      Padraig Wims Aine Galvin
      The aim of this paper was to report an action research that examined the potential of social media as a tool for knowledge transfer in agricultural extension. The research focused on developing group Facebook pages that were designed for adult farmers. A total of 49 par More
      The aim of this paper was to report an action research that examined the potential of social media as a tool for knowledge transfer in agricultural extension. The research focused on developing group Facebook pages that were designed for adult farmers. A total of 49 participants who were already members of four separate discussion groups were instructed on the practical aspects of using Facebook. Their participation in the Facebook pages was monitored for the duration of the experiment (from February 2013 to January 2014) by examining the frequency with which they logged into their accounts and the nature of their contributions. The participants’ level of uptake of social media was measured and their experience with using social media was evaluated by administering a questionnaire to all 49 participants. The majority of the participants had a positive experience when using social media for knowledge transfer purposes. The research found no association between age and social media usage; however, computer skills were significantly and positively associated with social media usage. Internet access was also associated with usage – those with wireless broadband internet connections in their family homes had the highest usage levels. The research presented in this paper illustrates that social media can be an effective tool for knowledge transfer in agricultural extension. Manuscript profile
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      41 - Impact of Women Empowerment on Food Security among Rural Households in Kwara State, Nigeria
      Azeez Muhammad-Lawal Kemi Omotesho Oluwaremilekun Jimoh Nimat Abdulraheem Lvie Loreta Olaghere
      Thestudy investigated the impact of women empowerment on food security in Kwara State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study assessed the levels of food security and women empowerment in the study area as well as examined the relationship between both. Also, constraints on w More
      Thestudy investigated the impact of women empowerment on food security in Kwara State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study assessed the levels of food security and women empowerment in the study area as well as examined the relationship between both. Also, constraints on women empowerment in the study area were identified. An interview schedule was used to elicit datafrom 150 rural households across ten communities in the State following a three-stage random sampling technique. Descriptive statistics, Likert scale, women empowerment index, food security index and the Pearson Product Moment Correlation were the analytical tools used. The study revealed that 52% of the households were food- secure. Only 5% of the women in the study area had empowerment index higher than 0.6, with most having least scores for psychological indicators of empowerment levels. A positive correlation (r=0.245) was observed at p Manuscript profile
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      42 - Small-scale Farmers’ Attitude and Problems regarding One House One Farm Approach for their Livelihoods Improvement
      Md. Golam Farouque Md. Mojammel Haque Debashish Sarker Dev
      Increasing population growth and decreasing land ratio made it difficult for rural people of Bangladesh to maintain their livelihood. Especially the small-scale farmers find it trickier using their scarce resources. One House One Farm approach(OHOF) is designed to utili More
      Increasing population growth and decreasing land ratio made it difficult for rural people of Bangladesh to maintain their livelihood. Especially the small-scale farmers find it trickier using their scarce resources. One House One Farm approach(OHOF) is designed to utilize the house and farm resources of the small- scale farmers to improve their livelihood. The focus of the study was to determine small-scale farmers’ attitude towards OHOF approach for their livelihood improvement and to identify the problems faced by the farmers in adopting OHOF approach. The study was carried out in two upazilas of Sherpur district of Bangladesh. Data were collected from a sample of 200 farmers. Attitude of farmers’ towards OHOF approach was measured under fifteen statements using five point Likert scale. The findings revealed that 66% of the farmers had favorable to highly favorable attitude, 28% had unfavorable to highly unfavorable attitude and only 6% had neutral attitude towards OHOF approach. In addition, an attempt was made to investigate the problems faced by the farmers in adopting and practicing that approach and was found that 56% farmers faced severe problem in case of adopting OHOF approach. Among the problems noticed by the farmers, Political affiliation of the farmers and their organizations and Complex loan distribution system were the main problems. The concerned authorities like DAE, BRDB (implementing partner of OHOF approach) and other NGOs should take necessary measure to solve the existing problems to enhance the positive attitude of small scale farmers towards OHOF approach. Manuscript profile
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      43 - Impact of Feed Sources and Feeding System on Milk Production and Marketing in the Babille District of East Hararghe Zone, Ethiopia
      Ajabush Dafar Bedasa Tebeje
      The aim of this article was to investigate the impact of feed sources and feeding system on milk production and milk marketing in the Babille district of Eastern Hararghe zone. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire which was administered to 152 randomly s More
      The aim of this article was to investigate the impact of feed sources and feeding system on milk production and milk marketing in the Babille district of Eastern Hararghe zone. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire which was administered to 152 randomly selected sample dairy cow keepers in the district. Data was analyzed using descriptive methods and regression analysis. Data from regression analysis demonstrated that the different factors had a different effect on the milk produced. The factors with strongest influence on the milk yield were dry fodder, green fodder, labor and number of cows. Feed is set to remain the most important and manageable component of commercial livestock production. Results clearly show that, in addition to dry fodder, the green fodder obtained through thinning of sorghum and maize highly affects milk production positively. Hence, ways of integrating cereal production with dairy production and efficient utilization of existing feed sources should be sought. So if energy dense sources of feed is adopted for the dairy producers in the study area, they may diversify their feed sources and could lessen risk related livestock feed and livelihood. The high cost of feeds and unimproved feeding system is a universal constraint in livestock production of the study area. Manuscript profile
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      44 - A Survey on the Comparison between Precision and Traditional Agriculture by Budgeting Method
      Maryam Gharehbeigloo Sahar Dehyouri Azita Zand
      The present study was conducted to compare precision and traditional agriculture by budgeting technique. Its statistical population consists of 210 experts in agricultural jihad organization of Qom province. The validity of Questionnaire as research tool ware confirmed More
      The present study was conducted to compare precision and traditional agriculture by budgeting technique. Its statistical population consists of 210 experts in agricultural jihad organization of Qom province. The validity of Questionnaire as research tool ware confirmed by professors while its reliability was corroborated by Cranach’s alpha to 0.78-0.94 intervals. According to the findings, there was the significant difference between economic, social, managerial, and training aspects for both precision and traditional agriculture on average. Also, there was the significant relationship between all economic, social, environmental, managerial and training aspects, limitation and policies on expert’ s understanding on each concept of precision agriculture. The findings show that there was no significant relationship between all aspects, limitation, and policies on precision agriculture and expert’s understanding of each concept of precision agriculture. The findings were indicated that there was no significant link between correlation coefficient of environmental aspect and limitation to understanding the concept of precision agriculture. Results of regression analysis show that economic, social, managerial, training, policies of precision agriculture overall can be explained 44% of changes in independent variables. Also, results of budgeting sector show that there was the significant difference between cost and income of precision and traditional agriculture so that cost of the traditional production was much higher than precision agriculture. Manuscript profile
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      45 - Adoption Prospects and Challenges of Rice-Cum-Fish Farming Technology in the Low-Land Plains of Southern Nigeria
      Omogho Ikoyo-Eweto
      This study examined the adoption prospects and challenges of rice-cum-fish production technology among rice and fish farmers in selected States in southern Nigeria (Delta, Edo, Lagos and Ondo States). Using questionnaire, data was sought from 720 sampled rice and fish f More
      This study examined the adoption prospects and challenges of rice-cum-fish production technology among rice and fish farmers in selected States in southern Nigeria (Delta, Edo, Lagos and Ondo States). Using questionnaire, data was sought from 720 sampled rice and fish farmers in the selected States. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics, logit regression. Results showed that more than half the respondents were not aware of the rice-cum-fish technology; however, majority had a high perception of the potential benefits associated with the technology and expressed willingness to adopt it (fish farmers = 95.71%; rice farmers = 87.25%). Potential constraints to farmers’ adoption of the technology included inadequate finance, lack of technical competence, perceived difficulty associated with the practice and limited land. Significant determinants of the rice farmers willingness to adopt the technology were age (b = -0.060), education (b = -0.253), income (b = -0.779), awareness of rice-cum-fish technology (b = 1.919) and perception of the technology benefits (b = 0.084). For the fish farmers, the only significant factor was farming experience (b = -0.388). Rice-cum-fish production technology, therefore, has great prospects for adoption in the study area if popularized. To enhance uptake of this technology, farmers should be trained on the rice-cum-fish production technology. Manuscript profile
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      46 - Barriers to Privatization of Agricultural Extension in Khuzestan Province, Iran
      Manoochehr Alizadehnia
      The agricultural extension system in the country is facing challenges and shortcomings due to issues related to the provision of services by the public sector. These challenges highlight the need to review the pattern of agricultural service delivery by the public secto More
      The agricultural extension system in the country is facing challenges and shortcomings due to issues related to the provision of services by the public sector. These challenges highlight the need to review the pattern of agricultural service delivery by the public sector to create the conditions for greater private sector participation. But before entering the process of privatization and huge costs in this sector, it is necessary to identify the existing barriers and in the first step to remove the barriers, then in the second step to implement it to plan and take practical action. The purpose of this study is to identify barriers to privatization of agricultural extension in rural areas of northern Khuzestan Province. Based on the results, it was found that the most important barriers to the implementation of privatization of agricultural extension were economic, social and cultural barriers with an explanatory power of 57% of the changes in the barriers to privatization of agricultural extension in rural areas of northern Khuzestan Province. Manuscript profile
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      47 - Institutional Innovations and Integrations Towards Sustainable Development Goals: Evidence from Ethnographic Research in South Eastern Ethiopia
      Mideksa Fufa Jilito Desalegn Yadeta Wedajo
      This paper explores how better integration and innovation of various institutions contribute to the achievement of sustainable development goals. It emphasized the way networking among institutions facilitate and foster the implementation of sustainable development goal More
      This paper explores how better integration and innovation of various institutions contribute to the achievement of sustainable development goals. It emphasized the way networking among institutions facilitate and foster the implementation of sustainable development goals. To do so, ethnographic fieldwork was conducted in Tiyo district, East Arsi Zone of Oromia Region, South Eastern Ethiopia. The data was gathered from farmers using observation, interview schedule, focus group discussions and key informant interviews. The gathered data was qualitatively narrated. Results revealed that various institutions available in the study area were closely interlinked and working for sustainable agricultural development. These institutions deliver various services to farmers to promote sustainable agriculture. Besides, the institutions also provide innovative ideas and materials to farmers to improve their agricultural practices. As Venn diagram depicts, the existing various institutions integrated and overlapped in terms of activities to achieve sustainable development goals. Therefore, concerned bodies should work for the sustainable integration and innovation of institutions to achieve 2030 agenda of sustainable development goals. . Manuscript profile
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      48 - Tomato Value Chain Information System in Tanzania: Lessons from Kilolo District and Dodoma Municipality, Tanzania
      S.Y Nyamba V.J Kalungwizi M.R.S Mlozi I.M Busindeli F.T.M Kilima C.P Msuya-Bengesi B.B Chija Z.S.K Mvena M Gabagambi S.M Gjotterud E Kiranga
      The major challenge for the tomato farmers is getting a fair price at the market price given that there are many actors involved in the tomato value chain. Given this situation, this project's goal was to improve communication pathways in dissemination of agricultural m More
      The major challenge for the tomato farmers is getting a fair price at the market price given that there are many actors involved in the tomato value chain. Given this situation, this project's goal was to improve communication pathways in dissemination of agricultural market information in tomato value chains in Iringa and Dodoma Regions in Tanzania. The specific objectives were to: identify and assess the status of tomato production and information sharing among the various actors in every node in the tomato value chain; identify the communication and knowledge dissemination pathways in tomato value chain; examine the efficacy of communication and knowledge dissemination pathways in tomato value chain; establish the innovative communication and knowledge dissemination pathways in tomato value chain, and enhance capacity and empower the various stakeholders involved in the tomato value chain. One way of achieving the goal of the study was to come up with an innovative communication pathway that would improve the marketing of tomatoes by directly linking farmers to markets. The study has developed a system called Tomato Value Chain Information System (ToVCIS). The system links famers to different markets in the Tanzania by sending text messages to a control centre which is fed with prices on a daily basis by government employed market monitors in the different towns listed above. Therefore, this paper details on how the system will help farmers through ToVCIS to mitigate vulnerability. Equally, it offers some recommendations for improving the efficiency as well as the sustainability of the system Manuscript profile
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      49 - Factors Affecting the Improvement of the Cooperatives Agricultural Education in the Lorestan Province, Iran
      Elahe Rashidipour
      The purpose of this research was analysis of the factors affecting the improvement of the cooperatives agricultural education in the Lorestan province, Iran. The population of study consisted of 832 members of agricultural cooperative in Lorestan province, Iran in which More
      The purpose of this research was analysis of the factors affecting the improvement of the cooperatives agricultural education in the Lorestan province, Iran. The population of study consisted of 832 members of agricultural cooperative in Lorestan province, Iran in which 260 people were selected as a sample size, using Krejcie and Morgan table. The results indicate that more than 66.92 percent of the agricultural cooperative members had Diploma and lower level education, while only 4.23 percent of them educated in MSc levels. In order to assess the factors improving the cooperatives agricultural education in the Lorestan province, 22 statements were designed and asked from members to show their opinions. Based on the results the statement “The revision of the content presented, based on members " is allocated as first priority. In order to classify the factors improving the cooperatives agricultural education in the Lorestan province, factor analysis was used. Based on the results, 5 factors explained 72.56 percent of total variance of improving the cooperatives agricultural education in the Lorestan province. These 5 factors were named after loading variables as: facilitating access to resources, entrepreneurship development and success, the development of educational activities targeted, empowering learners, and the development of educational activities for managers. Manuscript profile
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      50 - Impact of COVID19 on Sudan Agriculture: The Role of Agricultural Extension During the Pandemic Era
      Ahmed Bereir
      Agriculture is the backbone of the Sudan economy and represents the biggest industry of the country. The majority of Sudanese people live in rural areas and depend on agricultural production as the main source of their income and food security.This paper was prepared to More
      Agriculture is the backbone of the Sudan economy and represents the biggest industry of the country. The majority of Sudanese people live in rural areas and depend on agricultural production as the main source of their income and food security.This paper was prepared to study the impact of COVID19 on Sudan agricultural production and marketing in addition to the national policy response to mitigate this impact, and to study the role of agricultural extension to help farmers cope with the Covid19 pandemic era. This study wasdescriptive and mainly based on secondary data. The study showed that agricultural production and marketing in Sudan are affected by the impact of COVID-19 pandemic, and the country is also faced by desert locust problem that may cause considerable losses of both crop production and pasture and shortly along with the pandemic will lead to food insecurity in the country.The study also revealed thatthe government of Sudan has taken some measures to alleviate this situation andthe agricultural extension has a key role to help farmers cope with the pandemic era. It can be concluded that agricultural production and marketing in Sudan are not outside the impact of COVID-19 and consequently Sudan food security was affected by the pandemic. The government of Sudan has taken some measures to alleviate this situation. The agricultural extension has a key role to help farmers cope with the pandemic era. Manuscript profile
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      51 - Agro-Economic Comparison of the Achievements of Fadama III Agricultural Enterprises in the Niger Delta Area of Nigeria: Task-Target Performance Approaches
      Oghenero Ovharhe
      The study addressed the economic comparison of the achievements of Fadama III agricultural enterprises in the Niger Delta Area of Nigeria using task-target performance approaches. It aimed at identifying the indicators, tasks and targets and achievement of Fadama III. S More
      The study addressed the economic comparison of the achievements of Fadama III agricultural enterprises in the Niger Delta Area of Nigeria using task-target performance approaches. It aimed at identifying the indicators, tasks and targets and achievement of Fadama III. Some materials used were secondary information collected from the various Fadama III project offices. Simple random sampling technique was employed to select three locations: Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa and Delta States. The results included: the mean achievement index across the study area as percentage increase in income (163%), crop based activities (132%), fisheries based activities (105%), number of staff trained (162%) and number of monitoring visits to sub projects (149%). However, some indicators did not achieve set tasks and targets as in livestock based activities (51%), agro-processing based activities (13%), marketing equipment (7%), irrigation/drainage equipment (3%) and storage facilities (10%). The three States met their target of 40% increase in farmers’ income by achieving far beyond the set target: Akwa Ibom (155%), Bayelsa (163%) and Delta (170%) Upon contribution into Fadama Users’ Equity Fund (FUEF), achievable were: Akwa Ibom reached 101%, Bayelsa reached 75% and Delta reached 232%. Only Bayelsa State did not achieve the set target of getting up to 100% in FUEF contribution. The study concluded that the economic achievements of Fadama III project activities was commendable. The study recommended that there should be critical followed up for enterprises with proven agro-economic performances with success story of tasks and targets achievement for project sustainability. Manuscript profile
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      52 - Farmers’ Perception Regarding Impact of Climate Change on Wheat Crop Production in Layyah District-Pakistan
      Badar Siddiqui Syed Ali Asghar Shah
      Pakistan is at 28th amongst the countries that are going to be hurt badly by climate change. It falls in ten major wheat-producing countries of the world in terms of area, production and yield per hectare. Global warming, as a result of climate change, may negatively af More
      Pakistan is at 28th amongst the countries that are going to be hurt badly by climate change. It falls in ten major wheat-producing countries of the world in terms of area, production and yield per hectare. Global warming, as a result of climate change, may negatively affect morphological characters of wheat. The present study was undertaken in district Layyah to find out the impact of climate change on wheat crop.The district had a total of three (3) tehsils(sub-divisions) and two(2) tehsilswere selected purposely which were badly affected by extreme climatic event like floods.Thereafter,there (3) union councils from each tehsil,three(3) villages from each selected union council and seven (7) farmers from each village were selected.Thus, a sample of 126 farmerswere chosen and interviewed through a pretested structured interview schedule at their fields.The data collected were analyzed using Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS).Vast majority (94.4%) of the respondents informed that climate change had effect on wheat cropproductivity.Majority (above 90%) of the respondents reported that climate change was affecting their crop almost at every stage in the way of unpredicted rains, sudden rise in temperature and long drought periods. Manuscript profile
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      53 - Adoption of NERICA Varieties and Their Associated Technologies by Smallholder Farmers in the Northern and Southern Regions of Sierra Leone
      Philip Kamanda Edwin Momoh Mark Yila Masa Motaung
      20.1001.1.22517588.2022.12.1.6.5
      New Rice for Africa (NERICA) varieties and their associated technologies study was conducted in Sierra Leone. A purposive sampling followed by a multi-stage random sampling technique was employed to select 150 NERICA farmers from the two chiefdoms as the NERICA farmer s More
      New Rice for Africa (NERICA) varieties and their associated technologies study was conducted in Sierra Leone. A purposive sampling followed by a multi-stage random sampling technique was employed to select 150 NERICA farmers from the two chiefdoms as the NERICA farmer sample frames were unknown. Quantitative data were collected with a structured questionnaire. With the aid of the Statistical Package for Social Science (IBM SPSS) version 25.0 software, socio-demographic characteristics were analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression to determine the socio-economic characteristics of farmers that influenced the adoption of NERICA varieties. The socio-demographic findings reveal that the bulk of the farmers (62.0%) was in their middle age, 90.0% were married, and 84.7% had no formal education. Nearly half of the farmers interviewed (49.0%) did not adopt any of the recommended production technologies, whilst 56.0% did not adopt any of the recommended post-harvest technologies. The R-square of 0.26 (P<0.0001) indicates that smallholder demographic and socioeconomic factors of farmers significantly influenced their ability to adopt the recommended NERICA varieties. The study, therefore suggests adult functional literacy programmes for the huge number of illiterate NERICA farmers and encourages them to adopt at least one of the recommended production and post-harvest technologies. Manuscript profile
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      54 - Measuring Socioeconomic Status of Rural Households in Edo State, Nigeria: An Asset-Based Approach
      Eddy Onemolease A.O Akioya
      Available data on farmers’ socioeconomic or poverty status have focused on the use of money-metric measure of income and/or expenditure, an approach that has been criticized. An alternative, proposed to assessing households’ welfare has been to use asset ind More
      Available data on farmers’ socioeconomic or poverty status have focused on the use of money-metric measure of income and/or expenditure, an approach that has been criticized. An alternative, proposed to assessing households’ welfare has been to use asset indices; unfortunately, there is dearth of such study in Edo state. This study therefore assessed the socioeconomic status (SES) of farming households in Edo state, Nigeriabased on asset formation. Data were collected by means of questionnaire from 394 respondents, randomly selected from the (3) agricultural zones in the state. The data were analyzed using asset index. Using asset indices as a proxy for poverty, the study established that 36.64% of the households had high socioeconomic status (i.e. non-poor), 49.87% were moderately poor while 13.49% were very poor. However, the level of households’ asset formation was constrained by several factors. The study therefore recommended expanding credit allocation to farmers, improving road networks, establishing more agricultural extension contacts with farmers and encouraging the latter to adopt improved farm practices. Manuscript profile
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      55 - Farmers Preferences to Plant Crops for Bio-Energy production (Case Study: Sugar Beet in north of Khuzestan Province)
      Davood Momeni Choleki Reza Moghaddasi Yaghoub Zeraatkish Amir Mohamadinezhad
      Bioenergy is one of renewable energy types. The expansion of production this type of energy can create employment and sustainable income for society in addition to reducing pollution caused by fossil fuels and protecting the environment. Therefore, the purpose of this r More
      Bioenergy is one of renewable energy types. The expansion of production this type of energy can create employment and sustainable income for society in addition to reducing pollution caused by fossil fuels and protecting the environment. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to investigate the preferences of sugar beet farmers in the north of Khuzestan province to the presumptive contracts of sugar beet planting to use in production of bioenergy. The statistical population of the research included 1890 sugar beet farmers of Khuzestan province in 2017-18 which 320 people were selected through the stratified sampling method. The required data were collected in person by referring to farmers and completing the questionnaire. Factors influencing the preferences of farmers were identified using the experimental approach of the attribute-oriented declared choice method to determine the important attributes of different sugar beet planting contracts and to estimate the conditional Logit regression model. The estimation results of the Logit model showed that coefficients related to the contract period, the area covered by the contract, the contract price, the cost-sharing in the contract, the product insurance in the contract and experience of sugar beet planting are positive and significant. The coefficient of the interaction of the variables of attitude to energy production, area under sugar beet planting, Experience of planting sugar beet and the area under sugar beet planting with ASC is significant and positive and the coefficient of the interaction of Farmer's risk attitude with ASC is significant and negative. DOR:20.1001.1.22517588.2021.11.1.1.3 Manuscript profile
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      56 - Agricultural Extension Needs of Frontline Extension Workers under a Pluralistic Advisory System: Case of Zimbabwe Agricultural Growth Programme.
      Christopher Gadzirayi Never Mafuse Emmanuel Zivenge Ronald Veremu Waddlove Sansole
      Compartmentalised extension prohibits the uptake of new technology thereby inhibiting agricultural growth. Extension services aimed at increased agricultural growth should have a market-led and evidence-based pluralistic advisory system that is coordinated by the govern More
      Compartmentalised extension prohibits the uptake of new technology thereby inhibiting agricultural growth. Extension services aimed at increased agricultural growth should have a market-led and evidence-based pluralistic advisory system that is coordinated by the government’s Agricultural and Technical Services division in response to the needs of farmers. This study sought to assess extension needs of government front line extension workers. The research was conducted in four districts of Zimbabwe. The research used a mix of qualitative and quantitative methods, including a survey and focus group discussions. The Competency Borich Needs Assessment Model to assess the extension competence needs was adopted. The results revealed that the extension officers were slightly above moderate level of competency in 10 of the 21 agricultural competencies and at moderate level in 1 of the 21 agricultural competencies. Regarding the required level of agricultural competencies needed by extension workers, the results showed a fairly high total mean level (TM = 3.45). Therefore, the extension workers believed that agricultural competencies were moderately needed to be improved. There is greater need to spruce up technical, extension and organisational competencies within the whole structure of Agricultural extension front line staff. Manuscript profile
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      57 - Assessing Qualifications, Knowledge and Work Experience Of Sales Personnel on Safety Measures of Pesticides in Wad Medani, Sudan
      Ehab Elsir M. Alias Ahmed M. Bereir Refag S. Hamed
      The agricultural private sector in Sudan has emerged during the last two decades. It involves personnel that deliver extension services and considered as an alternative to the public extension.This study, therefore, intended to assess qualifications, knowledge and work More
      The agricultural private sector in Sudan has emerged during the last two decades. It involves personnel that deliver extension services and considered as an alternative to the public extension.This study, therefore, intended to assess qualifications, knowledge and work experience of sales personnel on safety measures of pesticide in Wad Medani Central Agricultural Inputs Market, Gezira State, and Sudan. The study employed a field survey with questionnaire methodological procedure applied in guiding data collection. Descriptive statistics and the chi-square test were used to analyze and interpret the collected data. The results revealed that all sales personnel hold bachelors in different agricultural specializations, the majority of them are male, nearly 57% have the period appointment from 1 -5 years, the majority of them display pesticide packages on shelves , store pesticides in stores, store pesticides on the ground and nearly47 % of farmers obtained information from pesticide sellers in the market. The chi-square test showed a significant association between the education and period of appointment of the sales personnel and the majority of the selected safety measures of pesticides studied. It can be concluded that the agricultural private sector suffers from some obstacles that need solutions to be able to play its role more better, especially store specifications and training of sales personnel.Therefore, we recommend that the stores should be built according to the required specifications, along with the training sales personnel during their service, in both process and human how skills and technical skills which are necessary for their work. DOR:20.1001.1.22517588.2021.11.1.2.4 Manuscript profile
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      58 - The Role of Agricultural Extension in Raising the Productivity of Rainfed Sorghum Small-Scale Farmers in Gezira State, Sudan: A Case Study from South Gezira Locality
      Refag Hamed Ahmed Bereir Hind Mustafa
      20.1001.1.22517588.2021.11.2.1.5
      The present study seeks to investigate farmer`s application of integrated solutions programme package for rainfed sorghum farmers in South Gezira Locality, Sudan. A field survey was used to collect data from 125 rainfed farmers participated in the programme and an equal More
      The present study seeks to investigate farmer`s application of integrated solutions programme package for rainfed sorghum farmers in South Gezira Locality, Sudan. A field survey was used to collect data from 125 rainfed farmers participated in the programme and an equal number from non- participant farmers from the study area were selected for comparison using the simple random sampling technique. A close-ended questionnaire was constructed and the personal interview technique was used to administer the questionnaire. The collected data were coded, fed to the computer and statistically analyzed using (SPSS), discussed interpreted using descriptive statistics and chi-square test. The descriptive analysis showed that the majority of participant farmers applied the programme components while chi-square test result revealed there was no significant association between participant farmer`s application of the programme components and their participation in the programme as a result of many constraints facing them in the application of the programme components . From this study, it can be concluded that the national programme for supporting rainfed sorghum farmers are very effective agricultural national policy that can be applied in the rainfed sector of the country, which in turn will help rainfed farmers to increase their production and consequently their income through the application (adoption )of the programme components. The study recommends that this national programme for supporting rainfed sorghum farmers should become a national policy, the needed inputs should be available and the agricultural extension officers should be trained on the programme components to be able to implement it effectively. DOR:20.1001.1.22517588.2021.11.2.1.5 Manuscript profile
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      59 - Production Characteristics of Cocoyam Farmers in Enugu State
      Kelvin Eze Remigius Ozioko David Okoronkwo Martha Mamah Cynthia Nwobodo
      20.1001.1.22517588.2022.12.4.6.1
      The work assessed the production characteristics of cocoyam farmers in Enugu State, Nigeria. Questionnaire was used to elicit relevant information from a sample of 80 randomly selected respondents. Frequency, percentage and mean were used for analysis. The mean househol More
      The work assessed the production characteristics of cocoyam farmers in Enugu State, Nigeria. Questionnaire was used to elicit relevant information from a sample of 80 randomly selected respondents. Frequency, percentage and mean were used for analysis. The mean household size was 6 with the mean farming experience of 24.0 years. 47.5% had mean farm size of 2.3 hectares with average annual income of N30543.8. Production practices utilized by cocoyam farmers are use of organic fertilizer (X=2.74) and use of manual labour in land preparation (X= 2.99). The information sources of farmers are friends (X=2.26), neighbour (X=2.46), co-farmers (X=2.46). Information needs of farmers were sourcing of farm inputs (X=3.88), sourcing of improved farm tools (X= 2.84) among others. Production constraints were incidences of pests and diseases (X=3.68), lack of extension contact (X=2.98) among others while ways of improving production are use of disease resistant varieties (X=2.95), formation of farmers` cooperative societies (X=2.44), among others. The study recommended among others that research institutes, federal and state government should in partnership, develop weed, pest and disease resistant cocoyam varieties, subsidized farm inputs, and provide extension services to cocoyam farmers. Manuscript profile
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      60 - Evaluating and Presenting a Model of Competitiveness of Agricultural Products in Khuzestan Using Theme Method
      Seyed Ali Jalali Majid NiliAhmadabadi Belqis Bavarsad Saber Mullah Alizadeh Zavardehi
      20.1001.1.22517588.2021.11.4.2.0
      The purpose of the study was to evaluate and present a model of competitiveness of agricultural products and rank the select cities and products based on the competitiveness advantages in Khuzestan. The study was applied in terms of purpose and descriptive correlation i More
      The purpose of the study was to evaluate and present a model of competitiveness of agricultural products and rank the select cities and products based on the competitiveness advantages in Khuzestan. The study was applied in terms of purpose and descriptive correlation in terms of nature. Data was collected using a semi-structured interview whose reliability was confirmed using the test-retest method. Besides content validity, convergent validity and factor validity were used in the study, where the results confirmed the validity. The population was 15 managers and employees of agricultural departments and managements in Khuzestan selected using the purposive (judgmental) sampling method. The theme method was used to answer the question and analyze the collected results. According to the results, economic factors, cultural, infrastructure, institutional and political factors, rainfall and geographical factors of agriculture, threatening new the new competitors, bargaining power of suppliers, competition between current competitors, and bargaining power of buyers were identified as the aspects of the evaluation model of the competitiveness of agricultural products. The findings indicate that the most competitive cities in terms of the products are Dezful, Shoush, Andimesh, Ahwaz, Shoushtar, Behbahan, and Ramhormoz, respectively. One of the important advantages of the current study is the identification, omission, or replacement of plants with a lower competitive advantage. Manuscript profile
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      61 - Socio-Economic Characteristics Enhancing Farmers’ Use of Mobile Phones to Access Agricultural Information in Tanzania
      Siwel Nyamba
      20.1001.1.22517588.2021.11.3.6.2
      This paper sought to address the effect of farmers’ socio-economic characteristics on their use of mobile phones to access agricultural information. Largely, literature acknowledges that information is becoming an important ingredient in agriculture. Similarly, li More
      This paper sought to address the effect of farmers’ socio-economic characteristics on their use of mobile phones to access agricultural information. Largely, literature acknowledges that information is becoming an important ingredient in agriculture. Similarly, literature reports farmers in Tanzania lacking access to agricultural information something which greatly constrains efforts to improve agricultural development. One good thing is that, mobile phone technology which is ubiquitously being subscribed to in Tanzania is believed to have the potential to address information irregularities in various business setups including in agriculture. The question a researcher asking why farmers in Tanzania not fetching the potential mobile phones offers for agricultural development .Through face-to-face approach, 240 individual respondents were interviewed. A regression analysis ruled out variables that significantly influenced farmers’ use of mobile phones to access agricultural information, including their; age, marital status, literacy levels, farming systems, farm size, income levels, sources of agricultural information, awareness, type phone owned whether featured or simple phone, frequent of contact with other sources, skills in using mobile phones to access agricultural information, supports from others, scale of production and distance from market. The study concludes that, the named variables above have an influence on the use of mobile phone to access agricultural information. Therefore, we recommend that, whatever efforts meant to address the need for mobile phone application in agriculture by farmers, one must consider such variables before embarking on other capabilities. Manuscript profile
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      62 - Theoretical Model Development for Agricultural Extension in Iran’s Resistive Economy
      Neda Seyedan Iraj Malek Mohammadi Seyed Jamal Farajollah Hosseini Reza Moghaddasi
      20.1001.1.22517588.2021.11.3.1.7
      This disruption of the economy created many problems for people in these sanctioned countries including Iran. This article is provided to explain Resistive Economics Agricultural Extension Education developed for the Iran by applying Grounded theory process to develop a More
      This disruption of the economy created many problems for people in these sanctioned countries including Iran. This article is provided to explain Resistive Economics Agricultural Extension Education developed for the Iran by applying Grounded theory process to develop agricultural sector’s planning and solving sanction problems problems. This study aimed to provide a paradigm model of resistive economy in agriculture sector to secure sustainable development of agriculture in the country economic sector. Because of using grounded theory process, we were able to formulate a theory of factors influencing the formation of Agricultural Extension Education modeling in the resistive economics era, in which 21 experts and pundits in the field of agriculture and economics involved, through theoretical sampling method. Data collected by semi-structured interview and coded for data analysis using MAXQDA12 software. A total of 122 codes, 34 categories and 4 main categories, were extracted. The main categories included weaknesses, strengths, opportunities and threats in the agricultural sector regarding SWOT process in the sanction era to promote Iran’s agricultural sector. The results showed that the most influential economic deterrent in Iran’s agriculture was the high cost of production (impact factor = 62.9), and the most impacting factor leading the agricultural economy was planning the right policies for agricultural macroeconomics (impact factor = 54.3). The most deterrent factor in dealing with the role of government was government intervention in the agricultural resistive economy (impact factor = 52.2) and finally the food security was the next influential factor (impact factor = 37.7) regard. Manuscript profile
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      63 - Women’s Access to Nutritional Programmes in Rural Bangladesh: A Comparative Study between World Vision Beneficiaries and Non-Beneficiaries
      Mohammed Uddin Nusrat Liza Mohammed Sarker M Zannatun Mukta Md Rana
      20.1001.1.22517588.2021.11.3.3.9
      The main purpose of the study was to make a comparison between world vision beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries regarding access to nutritional programmes and others. A total of 100 rural women consisting of both beneficiaries (50) and non-beneficiaries women (50) were More
      The main purpose of the study was to make a comparison between world vision beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries regarding access to nutritional programmes and others. A total of 100 rural women consisting of both beneficiaries (50) and non-beneficiaries women (50) were selected from Lakkhirchar and Meshta unions of Jamalpur sub-district following simple random sampling technique. Data were collected using an interview schedule and analyzed with a combination of descriptive statistics and inferential statistical technique. The findings indicated that beneficiaries of WVB had high level access to nutritional programmes compared to non-beneficiaries. While no significant difference regarding nutritional status between the beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries of WVB considering the BMI indicator. Correlation analyses indicated that organizational participation of the beneficiaries and communication exposure and training on nutritional issues of non-beneficiaries showed significant positive relationship with their access to nutritional programmes. But other variables did not show any significant relationship for both cases. The non-beneficiaries women faced more problems compared to beneficiaries’ women. Most of the non-beneficiaries women (62%) faced high level of problems while 90% of the beneficiaries’ women faced low level of problems in receiving nutritional services. Unwillingness of the participants in nutritional programmes and lack of awareness on nutritional services identified as most severe problem for beneficiaries of WVB and non-beneficiaries in receiving nutritional services respectively. Despite having problems the rural women were very much enthusiastic and eager that could help policy makers to take necessary steps to increase the access in different nutritional programmes. Manuscript profile
    • Open Access Article

      64 - Examining the Impact of Lead Farmer Approach on Follower Farmers’ Knowledge and Practice of Conservation Agriculture: A Case Study in Kalira Extension Planning Area, Ntchisi District, Malawi
      Daniel Devoted  Matemba Dalo Njera
      The Lead Farmer Approach (LFA) has emerged as a vital strategy for agricultural extension services in developing nations like Malawi, aiming to disseminate new technologies and practices among smallholder farmers. This study investigates the impact of LFA on follower fa More
      The Lead Farmer Approach (LFA) has emerged as a vital strategy for agricultural extension services in developing nations like Malawi, aiming to disseminate new technologies and practices among smallholder farmers. This study investigates the impact of LFA on follower farmers' (FFs) knowledge and practice of Conservation Agriculture (CA) in Malawi. Employing a mixed-methods research design, the study conducted household surveys and focus group discussions in the Kalira Environmental Protection Area, Ntchisi district. Results indicate a significant improvement (p < 0.05) in FFs' knowledge of CA post-LFA, with notable advancements in crop rotation and minimum soil disturbance understanding. The LFA also positively influenced FFs' CA practices, particularly in minimum soil disturbances, permanent ground cover, and integration of agroforestry trees. While intercropping and crop rotation showed no significant change, the overall impact underscores the effectiveness of LFA in enhancing FFs' understanding and adoption of sustainable agricultural practices. The findings contribute valuable insights for governments, development agencies, and researchers working toward promoting CA and sustainable agriculture through the LFA approach, emphasizing its potential scalability and long-term sustainability Manuscript profile
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      65 - Information and Communication Technology Training Needs for Agricultural Extension Workers in Delta State, Nigeria
      Oghenero Ovharhe Peter Emaziye Elizabeth Yarhere Ajieh Chuks Deborah Igeh Faith Ugbunu
      20.1001.1.22517588.2021.11.2.4.8
      The study investigated the training needs of agricultural extension workers on the use of information and communication technology (ICT). Some specific objectives were to ascertain the level of awareness on channels of information on ICT available to extension workers a More
      The study investigated the training needs of agricultural extension workers on the use of information and communication technology (ICT). Some specific objectives were to ascertain the level of awareness on channels of information on ICT available to extension workers and to identify the constraints facing agricultural extension workers on the use of ICT in Delta State. A sample size of 80 was obtained; first, purposive and second, random sampling techniques. Information was gathered with a semi-structured questionnaire. Major results obtained revealed that the respondents’ awareness of information channels on ICT were mostly telephone (96.3%), photo camera (95.0%) and radio (93.9%). In the competence of ICT utilization, telephone with on-line forum (group chat) (mean = 3.6), and laptop (mean = 3.3) were most applicable. However, low competence in usage was recorded in video conferencing (mean = 2.0), and GPS (mean = 1.7). The most serious constraints were frequent power failure (mean = 3.7), high cost of ICT infrastructure coupled with poor communication network (mean = 3.6) in the rural areas of Delta State. Result of tested hypothesis showed that there was a significant relationship between social economic profile of respondents and ICT competence of extension workers (p <0.05). The benefits of the study is typical in the exposure of necessary training needs made available for development interventions. It was recommended that there ought to be regular electricity power supply, subsidized the high cost of ICT and availability of good communication network in rural areas. DOR: 20.1001.1.22517588.2021.11.2.4.8 Manuscript profile
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      66 - Analysis of Women’s Participation in Processing Cassava
      Grace Ajayi
      20.1001.1.22517588.2021.11.4.4.2
      The study analysed women’s participation in processing cassava to gari in Ekiti State, Nigeria. Primary data were obtained from 120 respondents with the use of a well-structured interviw schedule in the study area. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used More
      The study analysed women’s participation in processing cassava to gari in Ekiti State, Nigeria. Primary data were obtained from 120 respondents with the use of a well-structured interviw schedule in the study area. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data. The mean age of the reespondents was 48 years and had the mean household size of 5 persons. The mean processing experience, annual income and quantity of processed tubers were 15 years, ₦472,200.00 and 7 bags respectively. Women’s participation was high (3.1) in gari processing activities. Participation of women in cassava processing was significantly influenced by household size, annual income, processing experience and quantity of cassava roots processed. The major constraints to gari processing were inadequate storage facilities, poor transportation network, government policies on agricultural marketing, low capital, inadequate processing facilities, low returns from product sales and poor marketing channels. The study therefore, recommends that the government should encourage participation in packing activities by women gari processors to add value to processed products, ensure increased production of cassava roots by cassava producers, provide good transportation network, storage, credit and processing facilities, and formulate good agricultural marketing policies for these women for increased income and enhanced food security. Manuscript profile
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      67 - Participatory Evaluation and Pre-Extension Demonstration of Improved Finger Millet Varieties with Its Full Package in Selected Districts of Debub Omo Zone, Southern Ethiopia
      Dilamo Hando Kassahun Gemayda Kebede Sakara
      20.1001.1.22517588.2021.11.3.2.8
      Abstract The study was conducted during 2018/19 production season in four purposively selected kebeles in Debub Omo Zone. The main objective of this study was to evaluate and introduce the improved finger millet technology at farmers’ condition in the areas. A tot More
      Abstract The study was conducted during 2018/19 production season in four purposively selected kebeles in Debub Omo Zone. The main objective of this study was to evaluate and introduce the improved finger millet technology at farmers’ condition in the areas. A total of 20 participant farmers were selected purposively. Individual interview by using likert scale, farmers’ research and extension group discussion and weight measurements tools were used to collect all necessary data. Simple descriptive statistics such mean and percentages were used to analysis quantitative data and three point likert-scale ranking was used to rank farmers’ preferences data. Based on the pre-selected farmers’ evaluation criteria, the field performances evaluation of improved finger millet variety was showed better field performances in drought tolerance, resistance to logging and diseases, spike length and plant height over the local cultivator. The yield performances of the improved variety under both farmers management condition and on FTCs managed by researchers were 6.73% and 18.8% of yield advantage respectively over the local cultivator. Therefore, introducing the improved finger millet technologies at large scale enhances its adoption rate and increase productivity of finger millet in the vicinities and areas with similar agro-ecologies. Manuscript profile
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      68 - Access and Usefulness of Agricultural Information among Poultry Farmers
      Sunday Obazi Mabel Dimelu Michael Chukwueze
      20.1001.1.22517588.2022.12.2.1.2
      This study ascertained access and usefulness of agricultural information among poultry farmers in Enugu State, Nigeria. A total of Ninety poultry farmers were selected using multistage sampling technique and data were collected through a structured interview schedule. F More
      This study ascertained access and usefulness of agricultural information among poultry farmers in Enugu State, Nigeria. A total of Ninety poultry farmers were selected using multistage sampling technique and data were collected through a structured interview schedule. Findings revealed that both male and female poultry farmers got information on poultry production from multiple sources. Internet was the most accessible platform for sourcing information on poultry production by farmers. Results also revealed that the outbreak of disease and prevention, management of vaccine failure and poultry feed were the most frequently sourced information. Furthermore, results indicated that male poultry farmers considered information from veterinary personnel (M = 4.2) as most useful, while female poultry farmers rated information from internet (M = 5.0) most useful than others. Some of the major constraints to access and usefulness of agricultural information by male poultry farmers were poor internet access (M = 0.813) and poor access/irregular extension visit (M = 0.812) while cost of acquiring communication facilities (M = 0.800), lack of awareness (M = 0.779) and inadequate fund (M = 0.594) were major constraints to access and usefulness of information by female poultry farmers. Thus, government, policy makers, NGOs and related organizations should train many extension agents to dissemination agricultural information since multiple sources of information can lead to contradiction, confusion and information distortion. Also, government should ensure that internet network is made available to farmers in different communities to enable them have access to information using internet services. Manuscript profile
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      69 - Evaluation of Agricultural Research, Extension and Farmers Linkages: A case study from Gezira State Sudan
      Ahmed Bereir
      20.1001.1.22517588.2022.12.2.6.7
      The present study seeks to evaluate the agricultural research, extension, and farmers linkages in Gezira State, Sudan. A field survey was used to collect data from50 extension agents, 50 farmers and50 researchers in Gezira State, Sudan. The collected data were coded, fe More
      The present study seeks to evaluate the agricultural research, extension, and farmers linkages in Gezira State, Sudan. A field survey was used to collect data from50 extension agents, 50 farmers and50 researchers in Gezira State, Sudan. The collected data were coded, fed to the computer, statistically analyzed using (SPSS), discussed, and interpreted using descriptive statistics. The results revealed weak linkages between research and farmers, between extension and farmers, and between research and extension. The used method of communication between research, extension, and farmers are workshops, training periods for extension agents, field days, and demonstrations. The Main constraints facing the linkages between research, extension, and farmers are a lack of budgets for linkage activities, weak infrastructure, continuous change of extension agents' workplaces, and separate administrations of research and extension organizations. From this study, it can be concluded that the weak linkages between these three agricultural pillars will lead to low adoption of new agricultural technologies and consequently lead to low income from agricultural production in the country. The study recommends that constraints facing agricultural research, extension, and farmers linkages should be solved. Manuscript profile
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      70 - Identifying and Prioritizing the Challenges of Organic Farming Development Among Farmers in Lorestan Province
      Jahanbakhsh Beiranvand Ahmad Reza Ommani Azadeh N. Noorivandi Mohammad Reza Ardakani
      The purpose of this research is qualitative analysis and prioritize the challenges of organic farming development in Lorestan province, Iran. This research has been conducted from February to December 2022 to provide a comprehensive, and practical model to understand th More
      The purpose of this research is qualitative analysis and prioritize the challenges of organic farming development in Lorestan province, Iran. This research has been conducted from February to December 2022 to provide a comprehensive, and practical model to understand the challenges through grounded theory and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) in Lorestan province. The data were collected by performing in-depth semi-structured interviews with the 32 agricultural experts in this field. To measure the validity of this qualitative study, a strategy of triangulation was used and to measure the reliability, constant testing and comparison methods of data and use of tables to record data were used. Data analysis was done by using MAXQDA12 in three steps: open coding, axial coding, and selective coding. The results of this study by grounded theory identified 29 initial codes and seven main following challenges were categorized and by AHP prioritized: lack of technical knowledge, skills and motivation in the field of organic production, weakness in the information and advertising network in the field of organic consumption, weakness in management and human resources of organic training courses, lack of financial resources and credits for organic training courses, structural and content weakness of organic training courses, weakness of modern research regarding organic agriculture and lack of awareness of the relative advantage of organic agriculture. Manuscript profile
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      71 - Assessing Status of Utilization of Agrochemicals in Fish Farming: A Study from Rural Bangladesh
      Shonia Sheheli Md. Nur Alom Sarkar Mithun
      20.1001.1.22517588.2021.11.4.5.3
      The current study was piloted to assess the status of utilization of agrochemicals in fish farming by the farmers in Trishal upazila (sub-district), Mymensingh District, Bangladesh. Data were collected for a period of five months during January to May 2019 through indiv More
      The current study was piloted to assess the status of utilization of agrochemicals in fish farming by the farmers in Trishal upazila (sub-district), Mymensingh District, Bangladesh. Data were collected for a period of five months during January to May 2019 through individual interviews from a sample of 80 fish farmers. Descriptive statistics: percentage, mean and standard deviation were used to analyse the data. The findings revealed that most severe fish diseases in the study area are epizootic ulcerative syndrome in Pangus (Pangasianolan hypophthalmus), Thai koi (Anabas testudineus), Shing (Heteropneustes fossilis), and black spot in Sarpunti (Barbodes sarana). To eliminate diseases in fish farming, 21 agrochemicals were employed (2 water quality management chemicals, 3 disinfectants, 3 antibiotics, 4 growth promoters, 3 oxygen suppliers, 2 gas reducers, and 4 disease treatment chemicals). The Department of Fisheries (DOF) and other relevant organizations should take proper attempts to enhance fish farmers’ knowledge and capability in disease diagnosis and agrochemicals application for profitable fish farming. Manuscript profile
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      72 - Borich Needs Assessment Model for Assessing Rice Post-harvest Value Addition Training Needs of Agricultural Extension Agents, Southern Region, Sierra Leone
      Philip Kamanda Masa Motaung Ernest Okorley
      20.1001.1.22517588.2023.13.1.5.1
      The study investigated the rice post-harvest value addition competencies of Agricultural Extension Agents by the utilising the Borich Needs Assessment Model. The specific objectives sought to assess the personal characteristics of the agents, followed by their required More
      The study investigated the rice post-harvest value addition competencies of Agricultural Extension Agents by the utilising the Borich Needs Assessment Model. The specific objectives sought to assess the personal characteristics of the agents, followed by their required training needs in rice post-harvest value addition. The study was done in the Southern Region of Sierra Leone which covers Bo, Bonthe, Moyamaba, and Pujehun districts. A descriptive quantitative research design that involved a survey method through a census of fifty Agricultural Extension Agents was used. Primary data were collected with a questionnaire from this population. The training needs of the agents that are required in rice post-harvest value addition technologies were analysed using the Mean Weighted Discrepancy Score (MWDS) formula of the Borich Needs Assessment model. The results were ranked and presented in tables. The results showed that the majority of the agents (84.0%) are males. Technologies such as milling paddy (MWDS=7.2769), and packaging and marketing of rice (MWDS=6.8672) ranked as the highest training needs of the agents. The study recommends an increase in the recruitment of female Agricultural Extension Agents and the provision of rice post-harvest value addition resources to improve rice quality after harvest. Manuscript profile
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      73 - Youth Engagement in Agricultural Activities: Status and Prospects for Tanzania Agricultural Sector Development
      Siwel Nyamba Damian Sanga
      20.1001.1.22517588.2022.12.1.2.1
      This paper presents the findings of the study about youth engagement in agricultural activities in Tanzania: It highlights the status and prospects for Tanzania’s Agricultural Sector Development. The study was conducted in Makambako Town Council, Njombe region in More
      This paper presents the findings of the study about youth engagement in agricultural activities in Tanzania: It highlights the status and prospects for Tanzania’s Agricultural Sector Development. The study was conducted in Makambako Town Council, Njombe region in Tanzania. Specifically, the study sought to: identify socio-economic characteristics influencing youth involvement in agricultural activities in the study area, identify the potential agricultural activities and other income-generating activities affecting youth livelihood in the study area, examine the contribution of the identified activities in addressing their needs, determine the level of their involvement in agricultural activities and identify factors influencing their engagement in agricultural activities. The study employed a cross-sectional research design. A structured questionnaire was the main tool while information from Key Informants and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) complement the quantitatively generated information. Quantitative data analysis was aided by computer software known as the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) to yield some statistics like frequencies and percentages which were later interpreted to conclude the assumptions. The content analysis technique used to analyze qualitative data. The findings revealed that youth perceived agriculture as their first-rate occupation and that majority said they see a lot of prospects as they engage with agriculture, both on and off the farm. The study recommends that intervention strategies for improving youth engagement in agricultural activities should revolve around sufficiently attracting innovative public investment in supportive rural public goods and services to farmers, including making agriculture a national priority promote it as a decent and productive employment. Manuscript profile
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      74 - Safety in Agricultural Extension and Development in Cross River State
      Ofem Etim Kennedy Obu Matilda Obhiokhenan
      20.1001.1.22517588.2022.12.3.3.6
      This paper examined safety in agricultural extension and development in Cross River State, Nigeria. It reviewed literature on unsafe behavior in agricultural extension and development, assess unsafe environment in agricultural extension and development, examine the comm More
      This paper examined safety in agricultural extension and development in Cross River State, Nigeria. It reviewed literature on unsafe behavior in agricultural extension and development, assess unsafe environment in agricultural extension and development, examine the common hazards in agriculture, review the importance of safety in agricultural development and assess safety constraints in agricultural extension and development. The paper observed that; improper clothing, emergency preparedness, field operations, and livestock handling were some of the aspects where farmer’s activities needed more safety attention in the study area. Also the paper noted that certain activities and conditions influence safety in agricultural extension and development in Cross River State such as; poor handling of animals, Confined Spaces, Heights, Machinery, Noise Pollution, Vehicles, Water, and Weather. Common hazards reviewed were dangers originating from agricultural machinery such as tractor, implement or tools, hazardous chemicals, toxic or allergenic agents, carcinogenic substances, transmissible animal diseases, ergonomic hazards, and extreme temperatures while safety constraints in agricultural extension included macro-contextual factors and institutional contextual factors. The study recommended that the level of hazards emanating from agricultural operations be determined and evaluated, while also ensuring the implementation of zero hazardous practices in the Nigerian agriculture. The study conclude that safety is crucial for agricultural development, as accident and hazards are the products of negligence and avoidance of the extra effort or cost of carrying out farm activities. Manuscript profile
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      75 - Benefits of Financial Credit among Smallholder Farmers in Plateau State, Nigeria
      Kareem Waheed Adefalu Lawal Daudu Kamal Dolapo Abiola Alabi Ahuoiza
      20.1001.1.22517588.2022.12.1.5.4
      AbstractThe smallholder farmers in the developing countries are struggling to remain in agribusiness due to inadequate access to agricultural finance. It was against this background that this study analysed the benefits of financial credit among smallholder farmers in P More
      AbstractThe smallholder farmers in the developing countries are struggling to remain in agribusiness due to inadequate access to agricultural finance. It was against this background that this study analysed the benefits of financial credit among smallholder farmers in Plateau State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to: (i) describe socio-economic characteristics of the farmers; (ii) determine the sources of credit available to the farmers; (iii) examine the perceived benefits of credit obtained by the farmers; (iv) identify the factors influencing accessibility of credit to the farmers; (v) ascertain the constraints to credit accessibility among the farmers. Two-stage random sampling technique was used to select 120 respondents. A structured interview schedule was used to elicit information from respondents. Data collected was analysed using descriptive statistics, and spearman rank correlation analysis. The results of this finding revealed that mean age of the farmers was 45 years. Majority of the farmers (43.3%) had secondary education. Preponderance (84.2%) of respondents practiced farming as primary occupation. Most (89.2%) of the respondents sourced their credit from money lenders. Increase in income and ability to send children to school were perceived benefits of credit obtained by the respondents. The farmers’ access to credit was significantly influenced by farming experience, farm size, level of education and annual income. The study therefore recommended that government should make adequate and timely provision for soft loans among the potato farmers since most of the farmers sourced their loans from money lenders which attracts high interest rate that may kill potato business. Manuscript profile
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      76 - Comparative Analysis of the Status of Agricultural Cooperative Extension Training in Compliance with The Learning Organization in Iran
      Elahe Kiani Azadeh Noorollah Noorivandi Ahmad reza Ommani Tahmasb Maghsoodi
      20.1001.1.22517588.2022.12.1.3.2
      The purpose of this research was comparative analysis of the status of agricultural cooperative extension training in compliance with the learning organization. Causal-comparative research has been used to achieve the research purpose. In this study, the Ex-Post Facto r More
      The purpose of this research was comparative analysis of the status of agricultural cooperative extension training in compliance with the learning organization. Causal-comparative research has been used to achieve the research purpose. In this study, the Ex-Post Facto research method was used. Members of agricultural cooperatives in Alborz province were 25,000 people in the statistical population of the study. Using Krejcie and Morgan table, the sample size of this community was 379 people. Statistical analysis of the research was performed using SPSS software version 22. At first, based on previous studies and conducting three brainstorming sessions with experts on educational dimensions (training needs assessment, educational goals, educational content, educational facilities and methods, professional competencies of educators and educational evaluation) based on the principles of the learning organization (personal mastery, mental models, systems thinking, shared vision and team learning), indicators and sub-indicators appropriate to the study population were identified. In order to compare the current and desired situation of the dimensions of extension training of agricultural cooperatives in Alborz province in accordance with the learning organization, the Wilcoxon test was used. Based on the results of comparing, all educational dimensions, ie educational needs assessment, educational goals, educational content, educational facilities and methods, professional competencies of educators and educational evaluation, it was determined through Wilcoxon test that with 99% probability between current and desired in compliance with the learning organization in Alborz province there is a significant difference. Manuscript profile
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      77 - Identify and analysis of indicators and sub-indicators of innovation management in agricultural cooperatives of Iran
      Manoochehr Alizadehnia Ahmad Reza Ommani Azadeh Noorollah Noorivandi Tahmasb Maghsoodi
      20.1001.1.22517588.2022.12.2.4.5
      The purpose of the research was identifying and analyzing of indicators and sub-indicators of innovation management in agricultural cooperatives of Khuzestan province, Iran. Causal-comparative research has been used to achieve the research objectives. In this study, the More
      The purpose of the research was identifying and analyzing of indicators and sub-indicators of innovation management in agricultural cooperatives of Khuzestan province, Iran. Causal-comparative research has been used to achieve the research objectives. In this study, the Ex-Post Facto or causal-comparative research method was used to compare the current and favorable situation of agricultural production cooperatives in accordance with the indicators of innovation management in Khuzestan province, Iran. Members of agricultural cooperatives with farming branch in Khuzestan province were 3823 people. the sample size was determined by using Krejcie and Morgan table, (n=349). The sampling method was stratified random sampling method. Statistical analysis of the research was performed using SPSS software version 22. To compare the current and favorable situation of innovation management indicators in agricultural cooperatives, Wilcoxon test was used. Based on the results, all indicators of innovation management, ie innovation creation, innovation organization, innovation planning, financing and creation of innovation facilitation infrastructure, attention to innovation application strategies, innovation research and development, innovative human resource development Dissemination of innovation, organizational developments in the direction of innovation, application of innovation and marketing of new products in the current and favorable situation with a 99% probability had significant difference. Manuscript profile
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      78 - Analyzing Rural People's Attitudes to Traditional Methods of Retaliation in Resolving Ethnic Conflicts Between Nomads and Villagers and The Required Cultural Extension and Education
      Maryam Pourgholami Sedaghati Batool Mehregan Seyed Alireza Hosseini
      20.1001.1.22517588.2022.12.3.4.7
      The purpose of this research is to analyzing people's attitudes to traditional methods of retaliation in resolving ethnic conflicts between nomads and villagers and the required cultural extension and education, Iran through qualitative method. To achieve the objectives More
      The purpose of this research is to analyzing people's attitudes to traditional methods of retaliation in resolving ethnic conflicts between nomads and villagers and the required cultural extension and education, Iran through qualitative method. To achieve the objectives of the research, semi-structured interviews and brainstorming techniques were used to collect data, and triangulation was used to evaluate the validity of qualitative findings. In order to implement the qualitative method, three types of open, axial and selective coding were used. MAXqda12 software was used to analyze the collected data. Based on qualitative analysis, 21 initial codes with 257 repetitions with 12 sub-categories in 4 main categories of culture building in reducing conflicts, paying attention to religious traditions in solving ethnic conflicts, paying attention to the views and opinions of tribal elders and holding educational and extension courses in the development of participation and social and cultural interactions were identified. By considering the results of this research, cultural affairs planners can aim to reduce conflicts and the number of court cases. Manuscript profile
    • Open Access Article

      79 - Attitude of follower farmers towards lead farmer approach in facilitating Conservation Agriculture practices in Kalira Extension Planning Area in Ntchisi District, Malawi
      Daniel Matemba
      This study explores the attitude of follower farmers (FFs) towards lead farmers (LFs) in facilitating Conservation Agriculture (CA) practices in the Kalira Extension Planning Area of Ntchisi district, Malawi. Despite governmental efforts to promote CA through the Nation More
      This study explores the attitude of follower farmers (FFs) towards lead farmers (LFs) in facilitating Conservation Agriculture (CA) practices in the Kalira Extension Planning Area of Ntchisi district, Malawi. Despite governmental efforts to promote CA through the National Agriculture Policy of 2016, previous studies have indicated low adoption rates. This research employs a mixed methods approach, utilizing surveys and focus group discussions. Results reveal positive perceptions among FFs regarding LFs' competence in training, demonstrations, problem-solving, and other competencies. The majority of FFs perceive LFs as effective in imparting CA principles and conducting demonstrations. LFs' problem-solving abilities and additional competencies are well-regarded by FFs. The study concludes with a call for further research on socio-economic factors influencing sustained CA adoption and recommends establishing a continuous feedback loop between LFs and FFs to enhance knowledge exchange and address evolving challenges in CA practices. The findings contribute to the existing literature and provide valuable insights for agricultural and rural development initiatives. Manuscript profile
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      80 - The Influence of Household Decision Making on Vegetable Farming among Rural Women in Kwara State
      Tolulope Ogedengbe Nike Akanji
      20.1001.1.22517588.2022.12.3.5.8
      The role of women in agricultural production in Nigeria can never be underestimated. Male dominance in decision making in the household and economy as well as agricultural production has continued even in areas where women are the key providers. The study was carried ou More
      The role of women in agricultural production in Nigeria can never be underestimated. Male dominance in decision making in the household and economy as well as agricultural production has continued even in areas where women are the key providers. The study was carried out to analyze the influence of household decision making on vegetable farming among rural women in Kwara state, Nigeria. One hundred and twenty women vegetable farmers were randomly selected from four local government areas in twelve villages across two Agricultural Development Programme Zones in Kwara state. The primary data were collected with the use of structured questionnaire through interview schedule. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. The results showed that only few (9.17%) of the women have control over land. Interestingly, unlike land, a large number (71.67%) of the women have access and control over farm inputs such as fertilizer, insecticides etc. Unfortunately, none of the women have access to credit and only 38% of the women have access to extension information. Conclusively, women have limited individual influence on household decision making. However, they have a high level of participation in joint decision making with their husbands and children. Manuscript profile
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      81 - Farmers’ Access to and Utilization of Mass Media Channels for Communicating Agricultural Information in Southern Ethiopia
      Teshale Tegene Padraig Wims Dinku Gebeyehu Gebeyehu Tagesse Melkato
      20.1001.1.22517588.2022.12.4.2.7
      AbstractThe purpose of this paper is to identify mass media channels accessed by farmers and analyse how they are used to communicate agricultural information in the Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia. This study involved a proportionate sample of 364 farm households that More
      AbstractThe purpose of this paper is to identify mass media channels accessed by farmers and analyse how they are used to communicate agricultural information in the Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia. This study involved a proportionate sample of 364 farm households that were selected using a systematic random sampling technique. A pre-tested semi-structured interview schedule was administered to collect primary data during June and July of 2020. Descriptive statistics and bivariate analysis were employed for the analysis. Three focus group discussions with progressive farmers were held, and the data obtained was thematically analysed. The results indicated that mobile phones, radio, television, and print media were accessed by farmers to receive agricultural information. However, mass media methods have not been extensively used by farmers for agricultural knowledge and information sharing. The study found low ownership of media devices, lack of communication infrastructure, low coverage of agricultural programmes, and high levels of illiteracy were attributed to low access and usage of mass media. To improve this, the study issued recommendations for the government and development organizations to improve rural communication. Mass media should be encouraged to increase the number of agricultural programmes they broadcast and make them more suitable for local contexts. Manuscript profile
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      82 - Post-Harvest Losses and Reduction Techniques in Crop Production: A Review.
      Tolulope Ogedengbe Olorunfemi Malomo Nike Akanji
      20.1001.1.22517588.2022.12.4.5.0
      Post-Harvest Losses are fast becoming a major problem causing huge losses for farmers and various countries at large. This challenge has resulted in various attempts to reduce the losses as much as possible. Crop production is essential to food security sustenance, henc More
      Post-Harvest Losses are fast becoming a major problem causing huge losses for farmers and various countries at large. This challenge has resulted in various attempts to reduce the losses as much as possible. Crop production is essential to food security sustenance, hence post-harvest losses are undesirable as it results in a threat to life and a reduction in Farmers income. This study reviews post-harvest losses, with the focus on developing countries, as they are mostly affected. It is imperative to study post-harvest loss taking cognizance of its ability to pose threat on food security most especially in the developing countries where a high post-harvest loss occurs during storage. The post-harvest losses in vegetables, fruits, and cereals were studied. Measures and technologies that can be adopted to reduce post-harvest losses has been discussed. Many developing countries are still struggling to minimize post-harvest losses because of lack of modern techniques, technologies and approaches, and this has continued to cause food insecurity across many developing nations. Smart farming techniques like the internet of time (iot), extension trainings and the use of various advance storage structures has been identified as measures for reducing post-harvest losses of crops. The application of these measures will drastically reduce post-harvest losses and this reduction will definitely result in a wider advantage. Manuscript profile
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      83 - Adoption level on Organic Farming Practices by Fluted Pumpkin Vegetable Farmers in Enugu State, Nigeria
      Sunday Obazi Miracle Iheanyichukwu David Okoronkwo Kingsley Obasi Samuel Esheya
      20.1001.1.22517588.2022.12.4.1.6
      The study investigated the adoption level of organic farming practices among fluted pumpkin vegetable farmers in Enugu state, Nigeria. Multistage sampling procedure was used to select 84 fluted pumpkin farmers, and data was collected through structured questionnaires. D More
      The study investigated the adoption level of organic farming practices among fluted pumpkin vegetable farmers in Enugu state, Nigeria. Multistage sampling procedure was used to select 84 fluted pumpkin farmers, and data was collected through structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed using SPSS software and presented in mean, percentages and frequency distributions. Findings indicated that majority (65.5%) of fluted pumpkin farmers regularly acquire information about organic practices through fellow farmers. Approximately 70.2% and 61.9% of the respondents noted that the use of animal manure and farmyard manure were the organic farming practices mostly disseminated in the zone. Among the different organic farming practices examined, only the use of animal manure (M=3.94; SD=1.302) was adopted. Poor storage of organic material (M=3.01; SD=0.768), low yield (M=2.76; SD=1.082), little/no policy (M= 2.74), inadequate information (M=2.70) among others, were the major challenges militating against the adoption of organic farming practices among farmers. Results also revealed that promoting government policy that supports organic farming (M=1.58; SD=.564), increasing extension service deliveries on organic farming (M=1.55; SD=.589) and establishing organic producing companies to supply adequate inputs (M=1.48) among others, were the major strategies suggested by farmers that will help in improving the adoption of organic farming on vegetable production. Therefore, government, through the ministry of agriculture, should train extension agents on organic farming practices to enable them have required capability to enlighten fluted pumpkin and other vegetables farmers. Also, government should bring up policies that would promote production, marketing and consumption of organically produced vegetables. Manuscript profile
    • Open Access Article

      84 - Vegetable Production and the COVID-19 Lockdown
      Kafayat Belewu Hussein Ibrahim Sheriff Busari
      20.1001.1.22517588.2023.13.1.4.0
      Due to various policies measures to curtail the virus, one of which was lockdown, the occurrence of COVID-19 had a negative impact on the nation's economy, especially the rural smallholder farmers. The study looked into how Covid-19 lockdowns affected Nigerian vegetable More
      Due to various policies measures to curtail the virus, one of which was lockdown, the occurrence of COVID-19 had a negative impact on the nation's economy, especially the rural smallholder farmers. The study looked into how Covid-19 lockdowns affected Nigerian vegetable production. Descriptive statistics, budgetary approaches, multiple regression analysis, and a Likert scale were all used for the analysis. The findings show that most of vegetable growers in the research region were married women (88.33%). About 70% of respondents have completed at least their primary education. The multiple regression analysis results disclosed that number of extensions contact, farm size, market access and transportation cost were significantly affected the level of vegetable production with positive sign while household size had a negative effect on the vegetable production. The findings also showed that after the COVID-19 lockdown, vegetable production was extremely profitable in the study area, with an average gross margin of 82,836.04 that was statistically higher than the 60,709.97 gross margin generated from vegetable production during COVID-19 and the 71,234.91 gross margin generated prior to COVID-19. The constraints faced by vegetable farmers during the covid – 19 restrictions include: high cost of transportation, price fluctuation, and high cost of input, perishability of the produce and lack of improved seeds. It was concluded that Covid 19 pandemic has greater effect on vegetable production in the study areas Manuscript profile
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      85 - Profitability and problems of farmers in duck farming: a study on haor areas in Bangladesh
      Shonia Sheheli Md. Nur Alom Sarkar Mithun Sourav Banik
      20.1001.1.22517588.2023.13.3.6.6
      The present study was endeavored to focus useful information on profitability and problems of farmers in duck farming. A structured interview schedule was used to collected data from 100 randomly selected duck farmers (10% of total population) during January to May 2020 More
      The present study was endeavored to focus useful information on profitability and problems of farmers in duck farming. A structured interview schedule was used to collected data from 100 randomly selected duck farmers (10% of total population) during January to May 2020 from haor areas i.e., Tarail and Itna upazila (sub-district) under Kishoreganj district in Bangladesh. Data were analyzed by utilizing both descriptive and inferential statistics. According to the analysis, the total cost of 550 ducks was assessed to be Tk. 72889.8 per lot. Average gross return, average gross margin and average net returns for 550 ducks were assessed to be Tk. 121720, Tk. 57,725.7 and Tk. 48830.2 per lot, respectively. The benefit cost ratio for duck raising was calculated to be 1.67. The findings indicated that majority of the duck farmers (74%) faced high problems, while 21% and 5% of them faced medium problem and low problem in duck farming, respectively. Among difficulties of the duck growers, outbreak of disease was the most common problem followed by high price of feed in the study area. Correlation analysis indicated that out of nine selected characteristics of the duck farmers level of education, family size, annual income, and social mobility showed negative significant relationship with the problem confrontation while the mortality of ducks and number of ducks reared by the farmers showed positive significant relationship for the same. The study revealed some prospects for the policymakers to address the above significant characteristics for profitable duck farming through lessening problems. Manuscript profile
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      86 - Identifying the Barriers of Science and Technology Parks (STPs) in the Development of Agricultural Technology in Iran
      Homyoon Dinarany Tahmasb Maghsoudi Saeed Mohammadzadeh Azadeh Noorollah Noorivandi
      20.1001.1.22517588.2023.13.3.3.3
      The main purpose of the current research was to identify the barriers of science and technology parks (STPs) in the development of agricultural technology in Iran. The statistical population of this research were 824 managers of agricultural companies, and 180 people we More
      The main purpose of the current research was to identify the barriers of science and technology parks (STPs) in the development of agricultural technology in Iran. The statistical population of this research were 824 managers of agricultural companies, and 180 people were selected as a sample using Cochran's formula and selected by stratified random sampling. The validity of the research tool was determined through a panel of experts and its reliability was determined through the calculation of Cronbach's alpha coefficient. This coefficient was higher than 0.7 for all sections. In order to measure the barriers of STPs in the development of agricultural technology, 26 items were proposed and evaluated based on manager's views. The obtained results show that seven factors explain 65.697 percent of the barriers of STPs in the development of agricultural technology. The first factor with eigenvalue of 8.671 and explained about 12.568% of the variance related to barriers, was named as "organizational barriers ". The next barriers were named as "economic and financial barriers", weakness in risk management", "Management barriers", "social and cultural barriers", "scientific barriers" and "attitudinal barriers", were named. Manuscript profile
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      87 - Effects of Farmers’ Perceptions of the National Farmers’ Day Awards Scheme on Farm Productivity in Ghana
      Fadilah Mohammed Lambon Joseph Thomas Ayaaba
      20.1001.1.22517588.2023.13.2.1.9
      The study examined the effects of farmers’ perceptions of the national Farmers’ Day awards scheme on farm productivity in the Tolon District of the Northern Region of Ghana. A descriptive survey design was adopted for the study. A total of 270 farmers were u More
      The study examined the effects of farmers’ perceptions of the national Farmers’ Day awards scheme on farm productivity in the Tolon District of the Northern Region of Ghana. A descriptive survey design was adopted for the study. A total of 270 farmers were used for the study using a multi-stage sampling technique. The study revealed that there is a significant difference in farmers’ general perceptions, selection criteria and the effect of the national Farmers’ Day awards programme on farm productivity based on farmers’ demographic characteristics. The findings have also demonstrated the effects of the perceptions of the farmers on the national Farmers’ Day awards programme on farm productivity in the Northern Region of Ghana. It is recommended that the award scheme should be fair in selecting farmers for the awards, irrespective of their farm sizes. Government should ensure that agricultural extension agents are made available to facilitate and observe the majority of the farmers whose farms are not reached for selection. The award scheme should review the selection criteria to include all the socio-cultural narratives (i.e., gender issues, land ownership, etc.) of the farmers in order to make the awards programme inclusive. Manuscript profile
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      88 - Livelihood Diversification among the Agricultural Land Scarce Peasants in the Central Highlands of Ethiopia
      Reta Hailu Ali Hassen
      This article examines the livelihood strategies of land scarce peasants in Ethiopian. Land scarce peasants have a limited livelihood security on a sustainable manner and bypassed by major development programmes. The study was centred on two sets of rationales. First, More
      This article examines the livelihood strategies of land scarce peasants in Ethiopian. Land scarce peasants have a limited livelihood security on a sustainable manner and bypassed by major development programmes. The study was centred on two sets of rationales. First, for those peasants who do not have sufficient farmland, agriculture provides only a limited portion of households’ livelihood security sustainably. Second, although there are ample studies on rural livelihoods and agricultural land scarcity, little is known, for instance, about the dynamics of agricultural land scarce farmers’ livelihood strategies in the Central highlands of Ethiopia. The field study surveyed 75 land scarce households and conducted a number of key informant interviews, focus group discussions, direct observations and transect walks to get first hand information and consulted several secondary sources. The result showed that the respondents are still predominantly pursuing agricultural based livelihood strategies through agricultural intensification, extensification, and diversifications. It depicted that 29.3%, 42.7 %, and 98.7 % of the respondents derive income from off-farm, non-farm, and agricultural activities, respectively. They also seasonally migrate outside their village for additional sources of income. Thus, interventions and policies need to promote sustainable livelihood must consider themfrom agriculture and through enhancing non-agricultural livelihood diversification activities away reduce the heavy dependence on limited land.                                            This article examines the livelihood strategies of land scarce peasants in Ethiopian. Land scarce peasants have a limited livelihood security on a sustainable manner and bypassed by major development programmes. The study was centred on two sets of rationales. First, for those peasants who do not have sufficient farmland, agriculture provides only a limited portion of households’ livelihood security sustainably. Second, although there are ample studies on rural livelihoods and agricultural land scarcity, little is known, for instance, about the dynamics of agricultural land scarce farmers’ livelihood strategies in the Central highlands of Ethiopia. The field study surveyed 75 land scarce households and conducted a number of key informant interviews, focus group discussions, direct observations and transect walks to get first hand information and consulted several secondary sources. The result showed that the respondents are still predominantly pursuing agricultural based livelihood strategies through agricultural intensification, extensification, and diversifications. It depicted that 29.3%, 42.7 %, and 98.7 % of the respondents derive income from off-farm, non-farm, and agricultural activities, respectively. They also seasonally migrate outside their village for additional sources of income. Thus, interventions and policies need to promote sustainable livelihood must consider them through enhancing non-agricultural livelihood diversification activities away from agriculture and reduce the heavy dependence on limited land.                                         This article examines the livelihood strategies of land scarce peasants in Ethiopian. Land scarce peasants have a limited livelihood security on a sustainable manner and bypassed by major development programmes. The study was centred on two sets of rationales. First, for those peasants who do not have sufficient farmland, agriculture provides only a limited portion of households’ livelihood security sustainably. Second, although there are ample studies on rural livelihoods and agricultural land scarcity, little is known, for instance, about the dynamics of agricultural land scarce farmers’ livelihood strategies in the Central highlands of Ethiopia. The field study surveyed 75 land scarce households and conducted a number of key informant interviews, focus group discussions, direct observations and transect walks to get first hand information and consulted several secondary sources. The result showed that the respondents are still predominantly pursuing agricultural based livelihood strategies through agricultural intensification, extensification, and diversifications. It depicted that 29.3%, 42.7 %, and 98.7 % of the respondents derive income from off-farm, non-farm, and agricultural activities, respectively. They also seasonally migrate outside their village for additional sources of income. Thus, interventions and policies need to promote sustainable livelihood must consider them through enhancing non-agricultural livelihood diversification activities away from agriculture and reduce the heavy dependence on limited land. [Reta Hailu and Ali Hassen. Livelihood Diversification among the Agricultural Land Scarce Peasants in the Central Highlands of Ethiopia. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2012; 2(1):1-8]. Manuscript profile
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      89 - Socio-economic and Farm-level Characteristics Influencing Adoption of Rice Production Technologies in Lavun Local Government Area of Niger State, Nigeria
      Umar Sheshi Isah
      The study examined the socio-economic and farm level characteristics influencing adoption of rice production technologies in Lavun Local Government Area of Niger State, Nigeria. A total of 76 farmers were randomly selected from 24 villages and data were collected using More
      The study examined the socio-economic and farm level characteristics influencing adoption of rice production technologies in Lavun Local Government Area of Niger State, Nigeria. A total of 76 farmers were randomly selected from 24 villages and data were collected using interview schedule. Descriptive statistics, adoption index and discriminate analysis were used to analyze data. The result revealed that the mean age of the respondents was 38.70 years, while the average farm size of the respondents was 2.4 hectares. Also, 40.78% of respondents acquired one form of formal education or the other ranging from primary to tertiary education. The result further showed that more than half of the respondents (53.95%) were not members of co-operative associations. Majority of respondents (52.26%) were medium adopters of existing technologies. The study also indicated that estimated farm income, farm size, number of rice farms cultivated, number of visit to market, distance of residence to market and farming experience discriminate between categories of adopters. It was therefore suggested that avenue should be provided for favourable price to farmers to increase their farm income to enable them adopt improved technologies, while special agricultural programmes should be organize on rotational basis to take care of less mobile farmers. Manuscript profile
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      90 - Utilization of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) by Agricultural Extension Workers in Niger State, Nigeria
      S.I Umar U.S Mohammed S Jibrin R. K Usman H Sallawu M. H Usman
      The study examined the utilization of information and communication technologies by agricultural extension workers in Niger State, Nigeria. To achieve the study objective, 206 respondents were proportionately and randomly selected from the three agricultural zones in th More
      The study examined the utilization of information and communication technologies by agricultural extension workers in Niger State, Nigeria. To achieve the study objective, 206 respondents were proportionately and randomly selected from the three agricultural zones in the State through multi-stage sampling technique. Validated questionnaire with reliability coefficient of 0.81 was used to collect data and data collected were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Result of the study revealed that the respondents acquired one form of formal education or the other ranging from National Diploma to Master’s Degree. Radio was the most frequently utilized ICT by the respondents with 76.7% response rate, while internet facility was the major source of extension information for the respondents. The result of regression analysis further indicated that educational level, place of residence and ICT training had significant influence on the use of ICTs by the respondents. Major challenges to ICTs utilization by the respondents were poor electricity supply and non-availability of ICT facilities in the rural areas as reported by 62.6% and 44.2% of the respondents, respectively. Therefore, it was suggested that young graduates with ICT training should be recruited as extension workers while capacity building training on ICT should be organized for existing extension staff. It was also recommended that internet centres should be established at the village levels to bring internet services closer to rural agricultural extension workers. Manuscript profile
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      91 - Accuracy of Extension Professionals’ and Farmers’ Perceptions regarding Privatization and Commercialization of Agricultural Extension Services
      Ajieh Patrick Chuks
      This study examined the accuracy between extension professionals and farmers regarding their perceptions of privatization and commercialization of agricultural extension services. The study was carried out in Delta State, Nigeria and it had a sample size of 224 responde More
      This study examined the accuracy between extension professionals and farmers regarding their perceptions of privatization and commercialization of agricultural extension services. The study was carried out in Delta State, Nigeria and it had a sample size of 224 respondents comprising of 134 extension professionals of the Delta State Agricultural Programme (DTADP) and 90 farmers that were randomly selected. Data for the study were collected from the respondents through the use of validated questionnaire and interview schedule. The questionnaire was used for the extension professionals, while the interview schedule was used for the farmers. Spearman‟s rank order correlation coefficient was used to determine the accuracy in perceptions of respondents. Results of the study show that extension professionals estimated farmers‟ perception with a high degree of accuracy (r = 0.80 ), while farmers estimated extension professionals‟ perception with low accuracy (r = 0.22 ). The inability of farmers to accurately estimate extension professionals‟ perception could be due to differences in their background and knowledge of issues relating to privatization and commercialization of agricultural extension services. The study recommends that farmers‟ knowledge of issues relating to privatization and commercialization should be enhanced through seminars and workshops organized by the appropriate extension agency. [Ajieh , Patrick Chuks. Accuracy of Extension Professionals’ and Farmers’ Perceptions regarding Privatization and Commercialization of Agricultural Extension Services. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology in Extension and Education Systems, 2013; 3(1):1-6]. Manuscript profile
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      92 - Some Physical Properties of Full-Ripe Banana Fruit (Cavendish variety)
      M, Soltani R, Alimardani M, Omid
      Physical properties of fruits and vegetables are the subject of many researches because of its importance in designing of agricultural machinery. Banana fruit is one of important fruit. In this study some physical properties of banana fruit (Cavendish variety) were dete More
      Physical properties of fruits and vegetables are the subject of many researches because of its importance in designing of agricultural machinery. Banana fruit is one of important fruit. In this study some physical properties of banana fruit (Cavendish variety) were determined. Properties which were measured included weight of whole fruit peel and pulp weight, dimensions, surface area and projected area. The actual surface area and projected area were measured by image processing technique. The calculated attributes were geometric mean diameter, sphericity, radius of curvature, assumed ellipsoidal volume, surface area and projected area. The diameters of fruit varied as quadratic form. High correlation was observed among assumed ellipsoidal attributes and measured properties. The highest correlation was between estimated projected area and measured projected area as R2= 0.978. [Mahmoud Soltani et al. Some physical properties of full-ripe banana fruit (Cavendish variety). International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(1):1-5]. Manuscript profile
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      93 - Informal Sources of Financing Climate Change Adaptation amongst Crop Farmers in Nigeria
      Agbugba Ikechi K. Ihemezie Eberechukwu J Adam E. Ahmed
      The study examined the sources of informal finance in aiding climate change adaptation in South eastern Nigeria. Random sampling was adopted in the selection of 6 out of the 9 communities in the study area. From each of these selected communities, 10 crop farmers were r More
      The study examined the sources of informal finance in aiding climate change adaptation in South eastern Nigeria. Random sampling was adopted in the selection of 6 out of the 9 communities in the study area. From each of these selected communities, 10 crop farmers were randomly selected giving a total number of 60 respondents. Descriptive statistics such as percentages and frequency, as well as multiple regression analysis were used for data analysis. The socio-economic characteristics showed that the respondents who made use of informal financial sources were predominantly male, and had farming as their primary occupation. The regression results showed that age and level of education of the respondents does not have significant effect on the amount of informal finance. Whereas, gender, marital status; farming experience; and annual farming income have a significant effect on secured amount of informal finance. Inadequacy of the informal lenders, insufficiency of the credit, poor accounting knowledge of money lenders, inconsistency and unreliability of the informal credit are the main constraints of informal finance in the study area and hence negatively influence the adaptation measures on climate change. Manuscript profile
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      94 - Comparative Analysis of Agricultural Credit Users and Non -Credit Users among Cassava Farmers in Ohafia Local Governmnet Area of Abia State, South East, Nigeria
      A, Henri-Ukoha J. S, Orebiyi J. I, Lemchi U. C, Ibekwe S. U. O, Onyeagocha G.N, Ben-chendo
      The study was designed to investigate the comparative analysis of agricultural credit users and non-users among cassava farmers in Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State. A sample of 50 credit users and 50 non-credit user cassava-based farmers were selected by multi More
      The study was designed to investigate the comparative analysis of agricultural credit users and non-users among cassava farmers in Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State. A sample of 50 credit users and 50 non-credit user cassava-based farmers were selected by multistage random sampling technique. Data were collected with a well structured questionnaire administered to a total of 100 randomly selected cassava farmers. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics, inferential statistics and ordinary least square multiple regression technique. The socio-economic characteristic of the farmers revealed that majority of the credit users were educated. Besides, majority of them also had appreciable experience in cassava farming which makes them better cassava farmers. Marital status, level of education, farming experience and household size are important factors that determine farm revenue for both group of farmers. Age was found to be significant and negative. It becomes imperative therefore to enhance farmers’ income and living standard by encouraging them to use agricultural credit in cassava production. [Henri-Ukoha, A et al. Comparative Analysis of Agricultural Credit Users and Non -Credit Users among Cassava Farmers in Ohafia Local Governmnet Area of Abia State, South East, Nigeria. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(1):7-11]. Manuscript profile
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      95 - Entrepreneurial Personality Traits of Agricultural Students
      Reza Movahedi Sara Jalilian Somaye Armand
      The purpose of study was to identify entrepreneurial personality traits of agricultural students who were studying at Bu-Ali Sina University in 2013 academic year. The study has used a surveying methodology. The study's samples were 150 agricultural students both senior More
      The purpose of study was to identify entrepreneurial personality traits of agricultural students who were studying at Bu-Ali Sina University in 2013 academic year. The study has used a surveying methodology. The study's samples were 150 agricultural students both senior undergraduates and graduates which were selected by a randomized sampling method. Data collection tool was a structured questionnaire which its validity was verified by a group of extension and education professors and experts. The reliability of the questions were tested during a pre-test process using a Cronbach's alpha test and it was 0.85 (α=0.85). According to the results the trait "internal control" was the most important entrepreneurial characteristic of the agricultural students. The results showed a significant difference between entrepreneurial personality traits of both senior agricultural students in third and fourth year of their education. However, the results showed no significant difference between the agricultural students in the graduated and undergraduates levels in terms of their entrepreneurial personality traits. The results also showed a strong difference between the agricultural students at different agricultural fields of education according to their entrepreneurial personality traits. [Movahedi, R., Jalilian, S and Armand, S. Entrepreneurial Personality Traits of Agricultural Students. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology in Extension and Education Systems, 2013; 3(1):7-12]. Manuscript profile
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      96 - Inter and Intra-Organizational Communication: The Facilitation Approaches to Strengthen and Sustain Rural Development Management in Portugal
      Timothy Koehnen
      The study describes and evaluates inter-organizational communication and relationships involving rural development management of community lands within specific perimetros florestais in Portugal. The research design is an exploratory research study approach that collect More
      The study describes and evaluates inter-organizational communication and relationships involving rural development management of community lands within specific perimetros florestais in Portugal. The research design is an exploratory research study approach that collected information with a mail questionnaire, interviews and information gleaned from community land association meetings and an international seminar. The design reflects a multi-disciplinary approach to the collection and analysis of information. The seminar and meetings allowed community leaders and other agents with responsibility and concerns for these rural community territories to discuss and identify management issues and problems. The findings describe the inter-organizational concerns and arrangements in the management and governance of these rural community territories and their natural resources. The findings suggest that a facilitation process can improve the organizational management and communication with local users and other organizations in the sphere of interest. The facilitation process involves local actors and stakeholders to improve their management and communication skills and capacity to construct governmental policies for these rural territories. These local actors need to improve their social skills and abilities to construct governmental policies for these rural territories. A rural extension service can play an important role in the facilitation process for the construction of rural development and governance policies. Manuscript profile
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      97 - Ethnic Communities Own Agrobiodiversity Richness (A Case of Triyuga Municipality of Udayapur District In "epal)
      Pawan Singh Bhandari
      The study was conducted in two settlements of ethnic communities in Triyuga municipality of Udayapur district, Nepal. The main objective of the study was to prepare an inventory of cultivated diversity of plants and animal species by the ethnic communities in the resear More
      The study was conducted in two settlements of ethnic communities in Triyuga municipality of Udayapur district, Nepal. The main objective of the study was to prepare an inventory of cultivated diversity of plants and animal species by the ethnic communities in the research site and their use in farming and in sustaining the livelihoods. The study has been based on data collected through personal interview with the farmers, focus group discussion, non-participant observation as primary source and also on secondary data collected from related publications of various organizations. The study has revealed that farmers grew and maintained different varieties and landraces of cereals, vegetables, fruits, fodder crops and livestock species and were found utilizing different species of plants and animals in farming and in sustaining their livelihoods. This justifies that the traditional ways of managing the natural resources have often resulted in landscapes of relatively high biodiversity value, compared with those associated with modern practices. [Pawan Singh Bhandari. Ethnic Communities Own Agrobiodiversity Richness. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2012; 2(1):9-16]. Manuscript profile
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      98 - Analysis the Impact of In-Service Education on Professional Development of Employers, by Using Solomon Four Group Design, in Agro-Industry Company
      A. N, Noorivandi
      In-service education programs have provided the professional development level of companies' employers, in the high quality form. The applying of in-service education programs has been a key component of professional development process for staff agro-industry Company. More
      In-service education programs have provided the professional development level of companies' employers, in the high quality form. The applying of in-service education programs has been a key component of professional development process for staff agro-industry Company. The study is utilized experimental Solomon four group designs to determine the impact of in-service education programs on agro-industry company staffs' professional development level. Results demonstrated that subjects learned from the educational programs and achieved higher level of professional development and demonstrated that there is significant difference among professional development level of clients. Post hoc analysis demonstrated that participants in treatment groups (E &C2) answered significantly greater numbers of questions correctly on the posttest exams and achieved significantly higher level of professional development than the control groups (C1 & C3) and there was significant different between professional development level of participants in pretest and posttest in E group but there was no significant different between professional development level of participants in pretest and posttest in C1 group.[A. N, Noorivandi. Analysis the Impact of In-Service Education on Professional Development of Employers, by Using Solomon Four Group Design, in Agro-Industry Company. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(1):13-16]. Manuscript profile
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      99 - Improving the Ecological Sustainability by Applying the Appropriate Cultivars of Rice: Using AHP
      Hadi Moumeni-Helali Amir Ahmadpour Alireza Poursaeed
      This study is a survey research. The population of the study was all specialists who have enough data about ways of sustainability rice cultivars that they were identified and studied through Non-probability sampling (purposeful and snowball). To determine the validity More
      This study is a survey research. The population of the study was all specialists who have enough data about ways of sustainability rice cultivars that they were identified and studied through Non-probability sampling (purposeful and snowball). To determine the validity of the questionnaire, face and content validity was used, and, to assess the reliability, inconsistency coefficient was used. In order to achieve the main objective the technique of the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) was used. The Expert Choice (EC) 2000 software was used to analyze the data. The application requirement of Analytic Hierarchy Process technique is considering the criteria sustainability of rice cultivation system, on the one hand, and decision alternatives (rice cultivars) on the other hand. Research findings showed that the cultivar of Hashemi is the most suitable cultivar for ecological sustainability of rice cultivation system. [Moumeni-Helali, H., Ahmadpour, A and Poursaeed, A. Improving the Ecological Sustainability by Applying the Appropriate Cultivars of Rice: Using AHP. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology in Extension and Education Systems, 2013; 3(1):13-18] Manuscript profile
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      100 - Comparing Technical and Economic Efficiency among Organic and Conventional Italian Olive Farms
      Nicola Galluzzo
      In many European states such as Spain and Italy there has been a significant growth of organic utilizable surface as a consequence of both a change in the model of agricultural production and also in order to satisfy arising demand of organic food. The purpose of this r More
      In many European states such as Spain and Italy there has been a significant growth of organic utilizable surface as a consequence of both a change in the model of agricultural production and also in order to satisfy arising demand of organic food. The purpose of this research was to investigate the level of technical, allocative and economic efficiency in Italian olive farms with two different system of farming as organic versus conventional using the dataset FADN (acronym of Farm Accountancy Data Network), which is a standardized database set up by the European Union to evaluate the impact of some actions correlated to the Common Agricultural Policy on farmers. The efficiency was investigated using a non parametric quantitative methodology called Data Envelopment Analysis or DEA. The results pointed out as organic olive farmers are more efficiently than conventional farmers even if allocative efficiency was lower in many of analyzed farms due to some pivotal variables such as land, agrarian capital and labor capital, which directly with the independent variable farm net income. Manuscript profile
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      101 - Analyzing Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats of Rural ICT Development in Iran's Villages
      A, Yaghoubi-Farani J. M, Gholinia R, Movahedi
      The Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) are being increasingly used by the governments to deliver its services to both rural and urban people. Obviously, access and application of ICT will provide services to improve the income and welfare of rural poor. T More
      The Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) are being increasingly used by the governments to deliver its services to both rural and urban people. Obviously, access and application of ICT will provide services to improve the income and welfare of rural poor. This will help reducing rural poverty and improve quality of life. In Iran, importance of using rural ICT benefits and advantages has been taken into attention by the government and policy makers seriously. However, complexity and diversity of ICT issues and domains have made it difficult to employ ICTs appropriately. Therefore, this research aimed at exploring strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of rural ICT development in order to support planners making the best possible decisions. Results showed the best strategic planning type was WT strategy (removing weaknesses and decreasing threats) for rural ICT development in Iran for midterm and long term plans. Another strategy include ST strategy (decreasing threats and enforcing the strengths) can be also used in short term. [Ahmad Yaghoubi-Farani et al. Analyzing SWOT of rural ICT development. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(1):17-26]. Manuscript profile
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      102 - Comparative Analysis of Productivity of Cassava Based Crop Mixture under Modern and Indigenous Technologies in Anambra State, Nigeria
      Nwaiwu I. U Obasi, P. C Orebiyi, J. S Ibekwe U. C Korie O. C Henri-Ukoha, A Amaechi E. C. C Osuagwu C. O
      This study compared and analyzed indigenous and modern agricultural technologies used in cassava production in Anambra State. Multi-stage sampling technique was used in sample selection. A total of 160 farmers were purposively selected from the four Agricultural zones t More
      This study compared and analyzed indigenous and modern agricultural technologies used in cassava production in Anambra State. Multi-stage sampling technique was used in sample selection. A total of 160 farmers were purposively selected from the four Agricultural zones that made up the state based on the use of modern and indigenous technologies. Data were collected using structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and total factor productivity were used in analyzing the data. The result of the analysis showed that both categories of farmers are within the working class age bracket of 40 and 60 years. The modern technology users were found to be more educated, have larger farm holding and higher average income per hectare than their counterparts. Farmers that used indigenous technologies have larger household size than those that used modern technologies. The total factor productivity (TFP) ratios computed for modern and indigenous technology users are 1.493 and 0.758 respectively. Sequel to the fact that the Z-calculated was higher than the Z-tabulated, the null hypothesis was rejected. This implies that there was a statistically significant difference between the productivity of farmers that used modern technologies and those that used indigenous technologies. The F-ratio also tested confirmed the higher variance in TFP for the two categories of farmers which shows a higher significant difference in the mean values. It was therefore concluded that the use of modern technologies in cassava production should be encouraged because they ensure higher agricultural productivity among farmers. [Nwaiwu et al. Comparative Analysis of Productivity of Cassava Based Crop Mixture under Modern and Indigenous Technologies in Anambra State, Nigeria. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2012; 2(1):17-21]. Manuscript profile
    • Open Access Article

      103 - Assessment of Women Agribusiness Cooperatives in Oyo State, Nigeria
      J. H Kagbu, F.O Issa,
      The performance of women agribusiness cooperatives in Oyo State, Nigeria was assessed in this study. The study employed a multi-stage sampling technique to select 6 women cooperative groups (aggregating to 175 individuals); 36 individual women; and 4 institutions across More
      The performance of women agribusiness cooperatives in Oyo State, Nigeria was assessed in this study. The study employed a multi-stage sampling technique to select 6 women cooperative groups (aggregating to 175 individuals); 36 individual women; and 4 institutions across 6 LGAs in two agricultural zones of the State. Findings show that majority (55.6%) of the respondents belong to processing organization and 86.1% participate in community development activities. Various benefits were indicated by the respondents as being gained from cooperative membership. Such benefits include access to credit (51.1%), access to group assets (34%), and financial assistance by the group (14.9%). A considerable number (52.8%) of the respondents did not receive any training. Majority (63.9%, 58.3%, and 55.6%) of the respondents indicated the need for training in cassava value addition, marketing strategies, and agribusiness management respectively. Drudgery (100%), inadequate capital (97.2%), and low return on investment (88.9%) were rated highest among the constraints militating the performance of the cooperatives. The major problems inhibiting women participation in agribusiness cooperatives identified in the study should be ameliorated using appropriate policy options. Government should engender commitment through appropriate legislative appropriation and budget. Also, Government should ensure that regular training and appropriate gender-sensitive technologies are provided for women agricultural activities through relevant research and extension agencies. Manuscript profile
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      104 - The Moderator Effect of Community Size on Suffering from Social Problems among Rural Youth in Egypt
      Mokhtar Abd-Ella Huda El-Lethee Mohammed Ebad-Allah
      This study focuses on the level of suffering from social problems and tests the moderator role of community size in relation with suffering from social problems. Our study was conducted in Gharbia governorate, Egypt. Two contrasting villages were chosen as the highest a More
      This study focuses on the level of suffering from social problems and tests the moderator role of community size in relation with suffering from social problems. Our study was conducted in Gharbia governorate, Egypt. Two contrasting villages were chosen as the highest and lowest on Human Development Index (HDI). A purposive sample of inhabitants in the age category 18-40 years was chosen. Sample persons were interviewed using a structured interview schedule. Measures of suffering from 13 common social problems were constructed. T-test and factor analysis were employed in data analysis. Results showed that community size had a clear moderator effect on suffering from eight social problems, but had trivial moderator effect on suffering from the other five social problems. The output of factor analysis yielded basically the same four factors; the order of those factors was different in the two villages. We recommend that rural development projects may have different priorities for rural communities of different size.[Abd-Ella, M., El-Lethee, H and Ebad-Allah, M. The Moderator Effect of Community Size on Suffering from Social Problems among Rural Youth in Egypt. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology in Extension and Education Systems, 2013; 3(1):19-25] Manuscript profile
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      105 - Wheat yield prediction modeling by soil properties: a case study in North-west of Iran
      Afshin Morovvat Mostafa Emadi Mosa Shojae Ahmad Pakpour Leila Gholami Javad Haji Aghasi Ehsan Kamali
      Crop yields are dependent on a number of factors such as soil type, weather conditions and farming practices. Crop yield estimates in different soil types are required to meet the needs of farmers, land appraisers, and governmental agencies in Iran as around the world. More
      Crop yields are dependent on a number of factors such as soil type, weather conditions and farming practices. Crop yield estimates in different soil types are required to meet the needs of farmers, land appraisers, and governmental agencies in Iran as around the world. This study was conducted to model the wheat-grain yields [Triticum aestivum L.] by soil properties in Khoy area, the north-west of Iran. The wheat yields (mean of 5 years) were applied to predict and model the wheat yields under an average level of management used through the area. The prerequisite data on main soil physicochemical characteristics was collected and measured to clarify the correlation and multiple regression analysis which are used to establish the relationships between the soil properties and the wheat-grain yields. Based on the calculated soil index, the general equation (GE) taking the soil index ranging from 0 to 100 % into account was proposed to predict the wheat-grain yields applicably. The results herein markedly proposed other two regression equations for the areas having soil index higher and lower than 70 %, respectively. The results indicated that within three obtained regression models, the equation suggested for the area having soil index higher than 70 % is appreciably more accurate than the model outlined by the FAO and potentially could be recommended for predicting the wheat yield in study area. Moreover, the GE regression model and the proposed model for the area having the soil index lower than 70 % showed the same accuracy compared with the FAO model but calibrated based on the study area condition. Therefore, our proposed regression models for the wheat-grain yields prediction could be used instead of performing the FAO models across the country with approximately same soil and climate status. [Morovvat et al. Wheat yield prediction modeling by soil properties: a case study in North-west of Iran. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2012; 2(1):23-26]. Manuscript profile
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      106 - Econometric Analysis of Access to Agricultural Extension Workers’ Service and its Implication on Crop Yield in Tigray Region, Ethiopia
      Berihun Kassa Hailu
      Agricultural extension workers’ service has been placed as the central pattern of agricultural transformation in general and smallholder farmers in particular. Due largely to this commensurately known trend, identifying factors that determine farmers’ access More
      Agricultural extension workers’ service has been placed as the central pattern of agricultural transformation in general and smallholder farmers in particular. Due largely to this commensurately known trend, identifying factors that determine farmers’ access to extension workers’ service and the effect of the service on crop yield was found to be imperative. Cross sectional data was collected through semi-structured questionnaire administered on 270 randomly selected smallholder farmers. While analyzing the data, descriptive statistics and econometric models basically Binary logistic and Ordinary Least Square (OLS) regression models were employed. Regression results revealed that access to agricultural extension workers’ service was determined positively by irrigation use, fertilizer use, off-farm activities participation, membership to a certain association, education and tropical livestock unit; whereas gender, age and land size carried a negative sign. The regression result also revealed that agricultural extension workers’ service has a positive but insignificant effect on crop yield where no significant crop yield difference have been seen between the visited and non-visited farm households. As per the findings, it is recommended that extension workers need to be financed jointly by the regional government and farmers themselves; thereby extending their roles and responsibilities to the extent of checking farmers at their farm land; and there is a need to solve the fusion of political and agricultural tasks that extension worker are doing. Manuscript profile
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      107 - Inhibiting and promoting factors influencing rural immigration: A case from Iran
      Musa Aazami Mehrdad Pouya Homa SorushMehr Tahereh Charkhtabian
      The main purpose of this study was to explore factors influencing immigration from rural to urban areas in Varkaneh , a famous village and tourist destination located in western part of Iran- Hamedan. A questionnaire was designed and validated by a panel of experts from More
      The main purpose of this study was to explore factors influencing immigration from rural to urban areas in Varkaneh , a famous village and tourist destination located in western part of Iran- Hamedan. A questionnaire was designed and validated by a panel of experts from Extension Education Dept. of Bu-Ali Sina University and Hamadan Jihad of Agriculture. Its reliability was secured by Cronbach’s Alpha that reached 0.72. Through a non- probabilistic sampling approach, seventy-eight Varkaneh residents who admitted to participate in our study were interviewed. Migration promoting factors were labeled as economic, family solidarity and rural infrastructure ; While inhibiting factors were named aesthetic, developmental, supra-structural and social solidarity. [Azami et al. Inhibiting and promoting factors influencing rural immigration: a case from Iran. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2012; 2(1):27-30]. Manuscript profile
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      108 - Identifying Factors affecting Optimal Management of Agricultural Water
      Masoud Samian Karim Naderi Mahdei Heshmatollah Saadi Reza Movahedi
      The main purpose of this study was to explore the factors affecting optimal management of agricultural water in Hamadan's area. The statistical population of the study included all Hamadan's farmers. A number of 148 farmers were selected randomly through a proportional More
      The main purpose of this study was to explore the factors affecting optimal management of agricultural water in Hamadan's area. The statistical population of the study included all Hamadan's farmers. A number of 148 farmers were selected randomly through a proportional sampling method in two phases. Both questionnaire and interview techniques were used in order to collect data. The empirical and face validity of the questionnaire was verified by a panel of experts consisting of faculty members and natural resources specialists. The questionnaires’ reliability was tested by Cronbach’s Alpha technique and it was 91% (α= 0.91). In addition to quantitative methodology such as descriptive statistics and factor analysis a qualitative methodology was employed for dynamic simulation among variables through Vensim software. In this study, factor analysis technique was used through the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) and Bartlett tests. From the results, four key elements were identified as factors affecting the optimal management of agricultural water in Hamedan area. These factors were institutional and legal factors, technical and knowledge factors, economic factors and social factors. [Samian, M et al. Identifying Factors affecting Optimal Management of Agricultural Water. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology in Extension and Education Systems, 2013; 3(1):27-35] Manuscript profile
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      109 - Selecting the Cultivation Pattern based on Economic Value of Water in Gotvand Township, Iran
      M. A, Sabbagi
      Considering Iran geographical location, water is the most limited factor in agriculture section. Therefore, it would be logical to consider water as one of the most significant criteria in selection of cultivation model. The purpose of this study is assigning cultivatio More
      Considering Iran geographical location, water is the most limited factor in agriculture section. Therefore, it would be logical to consider water as one of the most significant criteria in selection of cultivation model. The purpose of this study is assigning cultivation pattern based on economic value of water in Gotvand Township in agronomic year 2008-2009. So it was necessary to computes the water production value in producing important crops such as wheat, barley, corn, potato and water melon. To get objectives production function method was applied. Also different form of production forms such as Translog, Leonteaf and Quadratic estimated. The results show that the economic value of each m3 water in the products ranges between Rls.228 to Rls.411. based on the results, corn, wheat, tomato, malt and water melon have respectively priority in regional cultivation. [Mohammad Aghapour Sabbagi. Selecting the Cultivation pattern based on Economic value of Water in Gotvand Township, Iran. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(1):27-31]. Manuscript profile
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      110 - Knowledge of Women with Agricultural Household Jobs toward Innovation Management in Masjed Soliman Township, Khouzestan Province, Iran
      Shahrzad Faraji Azadeh Noorollah Noorivandi
      The purpose of this research was analyzing knowledge of women with household jobs agriculture toward innovation management in Masjed Soliman Township, Khouzestan Province, Iran. The population of this study included women with household jobs agriculture in Masjed Solima More
      The purpose of this research was analyzing knowledge of women with household jobs agriculture toward innovation management in Masjed Soliman Township, Khouzestan Province, Iran. The population of this study included women with household jobs agriculture in Masjed Soliman Township. The total number of members was 100 people. Due to the low number of population, census methods were used to collect data. Questionnaire reliability was estimated by calculating Cronbach’s alpha and it was appropriate for this study. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). To reach the research objectives, appropriate statistical procedures for description were used. Data analysis was carried out through data description and data inferential analysis. The results of research showed the correlation between level of education, creativity, social participation, attitude toward innovation management, income and knowledge toward innovation management was significant. Therefore, we can conclude that woman with high level of education, creativity, social participation, attitude toward innovation management, income had high knowledge toward innovation management. The result of regression analysis by stepwise method indicated level of education, creativity, social participation, attitude toward innovation management and income may well explain for 64.6% changes (R2 = 0.646) in knowledge of women with household jobs agriculture about innovation management. Manuscript profile
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      111 - Empirical Evidence of Fisheries Sub-Sector’s Contribution to the Nigerian Economy
      Mafimisebi T.E. Thompson O. A
      The study examined relationship between the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Nigeria with the inputs of labour, capital and the output of fisheries. This is to ascertain that the fisheries contribution to the economy is more than is recorded in the sense that taking its More
      The study examined relationship between the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Nigeria with the inputs of labour, capital and the output of fisheries. This is to ascertain that the fisheries contribution to the economy is more than is recorded in the sense that taking its indirect and direct economic impact into account, its overall contribution to the GDP of Nigeria may be higher than that measured by the national accounts. The Co-integration test was carried out; the trace statistic test reveals that at 5% level of significance, that at most 2 equations are co-integrated, since their absolute values are greater than the critical values at 5% level of significant. The Max-Eigen values also reveals that at 5% level of significance, that at most 2 equations are co-integrated, since their absolute values are greater than their critical values (i.e. 89.23411>31.46 and 46.65230>25.54). This corroborated the trace statistics, therefore, it is concluded that there is a long run equilibrium relationship between the 4 identified variables (GDP, F, K, L) in the model. The results established the fact that the fisheries sub-sector of Nigerian economy could be regarded as economic base of the country, especially in the coastal part of the country in which the life of people depend on fish based live hood strategies. [Mafimisebi and Thompson. Empirical Evidence of Fisheries Sub-Sector’s Contribution to the Nigerian Economy. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2012; 2(1):31-35]. Manuscript profile
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      112 - Estimating the Real Capacity of Rain Erosion Using GIS (The Fournier Case Study for Isfahan)
      A, Gandomkar
      Interpolation, the generalization of point data to scatter data, and combining maps are three cases of important applications of GIS. In this study, it has been tried to make the estimation of rain erosion capacity (Fournier Method) more real through using GIS capabilit More
      Interpolation, the generalization of point data to scatter data, and combining maps are three cases of important applications of GIS. In this study, it has been tried to make the estimation of rain erosion capacity (Fournier Method) more real through using GIS capability in interpolation and the generalization of point data to scatter data. In Fournier method, the rain erosion capacity is calculated through the use of two climatic parameters (annual precipitation and the rainfall mean in the rainiest month of year) and two physiological parameters (the height and slop of the region). The findings of this study indicated that there is significant difference between these two methods of calculating rain erosion capacity. Using the means of rain erosion potential was estimated to be almost 3.4 tones per square kilometers annually while this amount was estimated to be 4.5 tones per square kilometers annually by using GIS capabilities. [Amir Gandomkar, Estimating the Real Capacity of Rain Erosion Using GIS (The Fournier Case Study for Isfahan). International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(1):33-38]. Manuscript profile
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      113 - Assessment of Post-harvest Management Information Needs of Yam Farmers in Kogi State, Nigeria
      P. E Adejo J. O Okwu V. O Okwoche
      The study assessed the post-harvest management information needs of yam farmers in Kogi State. Interview schedules were used to collect data from 189 yam farmers who were randomly selected from the four agricultural zones of the State (Zone A, B, C and D) by using multi More
      The study assessed the post-harvest management information needs of yam farmers in Kogi State. Interview schedules were used to collect data from 189 yam farmers who were randomly selected from the four agricultural zones of the State (Zone A, B, C and D) by using multistage random sampling techniques. The data collected were subjected to descriptive statistics and binary logit regression. Result shows that majority of the yam farmers highly sought for information on storage (52.91%) and markets/market prices (50.79%). Logit regression analysis shows that educational level and extension contacts at 1% and income and age at 5% were found to have had significant effect on the farmers’ access to improved post-harvest management information on yam. It is recommended that improving the educational background of yam farmers through adult educational system, ensuring access of yam farmers to needed information on improved post-harvest management technologies, and the preservation and propagation of some effective indigenous post-harvest management of yam would go a long way to boost their participation in post-harvest activities for better value addition to harvested yam. Manuscript profile
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      114 - Social and Economical Analysis of Small Scale Maize Production in Kura Local Government Area of Kano State, Nigeria
      A. S Ahmed A. Suleiman A. Aminu
      This research covered three villages in Kura local Government Area of Kano State. The study described the socio-economic characteristics of maize producers and their production techniques and also determined the profitability and resource use efficiency in the maize pro More
      This research covered three villages in Kura local Government Area of Kano State. The study described the socio-economic characteristics of maize producers and their production techniques and also determined the profitability and resource use efficiency in the maize production. Structured questionnaires were used for primary data collection and 40 small scale producers were purposively selected base based on the scale of operation. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as percentage, mean, frequency distribution table; net farm income and multiple regression models. The results of this study show that 62.5% of maize producers are young with age ranging from 25 to 34 years. Also 82.5% are married. About 78% of them have 1 to 9 number of dependent whereas 22.5% have 10-19 numbers of dependents. Majority (82.5%) of the farmers practiced farming as their major occupation mainly as a source of income and food. About 85% of these producers operate with less than 2 ha of land. The average total return per hectare of maize is in the area was estimated at N178397.30, average total cost of production is N 82,461 per hectare and average profit per hectare is N95, 936.30. Thus result revealed that maize production enterprise is profitable in the study area. The study recommends interventions by Governmental and Non Governmental Organizations in improving maize production in the study area. [Ahmed, A. S., Suleiman, A and Aminu, A. Social and Economical Analysis of Small Scale Maize Production in Kura Local Government Area of Kano State, Nigeria. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology in Extension and Education Systems, 2013; 3(1):37-43] Manuscript profile
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      115 - Effect of Phosphatic Fertilizers on Chemical Composition and Total Phosphorus Uptake by Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
      Muhammad Bilal Khan Muhammad Iqbal Lone Rehmat Ullah
      Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) was grown in earthen pots containing soil of Balkasar Soil Series (Sandy Loam) in green house at the Department of Soil Science and SWC, Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi during Rabi season, 2007. The Crop was treated More
      Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) was grown in earthen pots containing soil of Balkasar Soil Series (Sandy Loam) in green house at the Department of Soil Science and SWC, Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi during Rabi season, 2007. The Crop was treated with two levels of Phosphorus (40 and 80 kg P ha-1 ) in the form of SSP, TSP, NP and DAP. A basal doze of 100 kg N and 60 kg K ha-1 was applied as urea and murate of potash (MOP) respectively. Chemical composition of wheat plants showed that all the parameters were significantly improved by addition of P except the Phosphorus concentration (%) in wheat straw and potassium conc. (%) in wheat grain. Similarly Phosphorus uptake was increased with the increased level of phosphorus application. It was concluded from the study that different sources and levels of phosphorus has significant effect on the NPK contents of wheat and total P uptake by wheat plants. Among all the sources and levels of phosphorus, 80kg P ha-1 as single superphosphate (SSP) showed superiority over triple superphosphate (TSP), nitrophos (NP) and diammonium phosphate (DAP) on phosphorus deficient soil of Balkasr area of Tehsil Chakwal. [Bilal Khan et al. Effect of phosphatic fertilizers on chemical composition and Total Phosphorus Uptake by wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2012; 2(1):37-42]. Manuscript profile
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      116 - Farmers’ Perception and Management of Natural Hazards in Production and Security of Farm Investment in Isuikwuato, Abia State, Nigeria
      Emerole C. O Anyiro C. O
      This study on farmers’ perception and management of natural hazards in production and security of farm investment was carried out in Isuikwuato Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria. The study was sought to identify farmers’ perceived natural hazards More
      This study on farmers’ perception and management of natural hazards in production and security of farm investment was carried out in Isuikwuato Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria. The study was sought to identify farmers’ perceived natural hazards in food production; identify adopted measures used in mitigating impacts of the hazards and determined factors that influenced farmers from taking formal insurance policy against these hazards. Sixty farmers were chosen following a multi-stage random sampling technique. The instrument of data collection was via a set of semi-structured questionnaire which was administered by personal interview method. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, 5 point likert scale and probit regression model. The result revealed fire outbreak, outbreak of diseases and pests, flooding, erosion, drought, theft, and ill health as natural hazards experienced by the farmers. The most perceived hazard was fire outbreak and the least perceived was floods. Farmers’ level of education, farming experience, previous farm income and enterprise type were significant determinants of farmer’s decision to take formal insurance. Experienced farmers mitigated effects of these hazards using cultural techniques. We recommended that government should provide a cushion infrastructure in form of dams to conserve floods and flowing streams to provide water for irrigation and ameliorate effects of occasional droughts and erratic rainfall. Farmers on their part should be encouraged by farm extension agency to take up formal insurance policy from designate companies against losses to their investments. Manuscript profile
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      117 - Entrepreneurship Approaches in Agricultural Cooperatives
      M, Hekmat
      Economists look at the entrepreneurship from the prospective of profitability, investment, risk, and insight supporting the economical development but it seems that, in modern societies, entrepreneurship`s function is beyond the economical bounds. According to the stage More
      Economists look at the entrepreneurship from the prospective of profitability, investment, risk, and insight supporting the economical development but it seems that, in modern societies, entrepreneurship`s function is beyond the economical bounds. According to the stage and importance of entrepreneurship which is known as the society’s economic and culture evolution engine, it is necessary to develop an entrepreneurial culture and support the entrepreneurs in order to make employment and progress. Considering this matter in the agriculture sector which is known as the development pivot can be effective and useful. This study is aimed at evaluating the entrepreneurship strategies and methods in agriculture production cooperatives. Information is gained through library study, compilation, observation, and interview .results show that social, economical, political, and legal factors and observance of the cooperative`s principals result in agriculture production cooperative development and, finally, entrepreneurship in this organization. [Masoud Hekmat. Entrepreneurship Approaches in Agricultural Cooperatives. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(1):39-45]. Manuscript profile
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      118 - Barriers of Pastures Insurance Development from Experts' Perspective
      Maryam Omidi Najafabadi Mahsa Rami
      According to statistics released by agricultural insurance fund (AIF) less than 4 million acres out of 90 million acres has been covered by Pastures Insurance. This observation along with several facts motivated authors to study possible barriers which Pastures Insuranc More
      According to statistics released by agricultural insurance fund (AIF) less than 4 million acres out of 90 million acres has been covered by Pastures Insurance. This observation along with several facts motivated authors to study possible barriers which Pastures Insurance has been encountered in practice. The research population included all the experts in agricultural insurance fund. Small population caused a census study. The initial and follow-up mailing generated 100 useable responses from experts resulting in a response rate of 100%. This research applied SPSS Software to analyze the data. Data was analyzed using the factor analysis. KMO index along with the Bartlett test verify appropriateness of the collected data for explanatory factor analysis. Based upon the findings, the barriers have been classified into five factors named communication barrier, Extension barrier, Rangers' barrier, Organizational barrier and Experts' barrier. Among these factors, communication barrier plays the most important role. It is composed of lack of awareness of ranchers about legal affairs of pasture insurance; inappropriate behavior of insurance experts and extension agents, problems regarding with illiterate and old stakeholders, limited media for pasture insurance development. [Najafabadi and Rami. Barriers of Pastures Insurance Development from Experts' Perspective. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2012; 2(1):43-46]. Manuscript profile
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      119 - The Agricultural Students' Satisfaction from Their Field of Study (Case Study: Bu-Ali Sina University, College of Agriculture)
      Kambiz Karimi Reza Movahedi Nasim Izadi
      This research has an aim to assess agricultural students' satisfaction from their field of study. The statistical population consisted of 1040 students from the University of Bu Ali Sina (800 bachelor and 240 master students) during the years of 2011 to 2013. Through st More
      This research has an aim to assess agricultural students' satisfaction from their field of study. The statistical population consisted of 1040 students from the University of Bu Ali Sina (800 bachelor and 240 master students) during the years of 2011 to 2013. Through stratified random sampling method 240 bachelor and 80 master students were selected. Data was collected by means of a researcher made questionnaire. Face validity of questionnaire was done through an expert's panel and reliability was tested through pilot testing out of research sample by using Cronbach alpha test. Alpha coefficient was 0.82. The results showed that there was positive relationship among the independent variables i.e. satisfaction from professors' ability, career satisfaction, satisfaction from the content and curriculum, the field of students and the dependent variable (satisfaction from field of study). Manuscript profile
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      120 - Ekiti State Social Security Scheme (ESSSS) and its Effect on Food Security in Ekiti State, Nigeria
      R. O. Babatunde A. H. Adenuga O. M. Adenuga F. L. Olagunju
      This study was carried out to evaluate the Ekiti State Social Security Scheme (ESSSS) in Nigeria. Specifically, the study estimated the food security status of the beneficiaries and non beneficiaries of the scheme, assessed the effect of the social security scheme on ho More
      This study was carried out to evaluate the Ekiti State Social Security Scheme (ESSSS) in Nigeria. Specifically, the study estimated the food security status of the beneficiaries and non beneficiaries of the scheme, assessed the effect of the social security scheme on households’ food security status, and identified the constraints to the implementation of the scheme in the state. A three stage random sampling technique was employed to select 200 respondents for the study using a well structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, Head Count Ratio (HCR), Food Insecurity Gap (FIG) and Squared Food Insecurity Gap (SFIG) indices, T- test analysis, 5– point Likert type scale and the logistic regression model were the major analytical tools employed for the study. The result of the analysis showed that income from cash transfer make up about 45% of the total income of the benefiting households. Whereas about 39% of the sampled benefiting households were food insecure, the proportion of the non-beneficiaries that were food insecure was as much as 60%. The result of the logistic regression model revealed that access to the social security scheme, gender, marital status and total monthly income of the household were statistically significant and in explaining the food security status of the household. Corruption and political interference were identified as the most important constraints to the programme in the study area. The study recommends that the government should try as much as possible to increase the number of old people benefiting from the programme. [Babatunde, R. O et al. Ekiti State Social Security Scheme (ESSSS) and its Effect on Food Security in Ekiti State, Nigeria. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology in Extension and Education Systems, 2013; 3(1):45-52] Manuscript profile
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      121 - The Nexus between Rural-Urban Migration and Child Labour in Agriculture in Delta State Nigeria
      A.U Ofuoku B.C Uweru
      This study was conducted in Delta State Nigeria to establish a nexus between rural-urban migration and child labour. Random sampling was applied to select rural settlements and this study covers 450 sample farming households. The results show that rural-urban migration More
      This study was conducted in Delta State Nigeria to establish a nexus between rural-urban migration and child labour. Random sampling was applied to select rural settlements and this study covers 450 sample farming households. The results show that rural-urban migration influence child labour (P <0.05). They also show that rural-urban mitigation positively influences child involvement in household farm work and farm wage work (P <0.05). It indicated that rural-urban migration prevents children from consistent attendance to school as it negatively related with schooling of these children (P<10). It is recommended that infrastructural development of rural areas be embarked upon, basic education be made compulsory and parents should be educated on how to schedule the children’s farm work and schooling to avoid conflict; and extension agents should raise awareness of young adults on the benefit of engaging in agricultural practice. Manuscript profile
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      122 - Gender and Net Farm Income of Cassava Farmers under Individual Land Tenure System in Abia State
      A, Henri-Ukoha J.S, Orebiyi D.O, Ohajianya U.C, Ibekwe S.U.O, Onyeagocha F.O, Nwosu U.I, Nwaiwu
      The study on gender and net farm income of cassava-based farmers under individual land tenure system was done in Abia State of Nigeria. The main objective was to determine the Net Farm Income (NFI) and the Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR) of the cassava farmers by gender vis-av More
      The study on gender and net farm income of cassava-based farmers under individual land tenure system was done in Abia State of Nigeria. The main objective was to determine the Net Farm Income (NFI) and the Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR) of the cassava farmers by gender vis-aviz their income levels as well as food security in the state. A multi-stage random sampling technique was adopted while data were adopted through the use of structured questionnaire along with interview schedule. Secondary data were collected from relevant journals, internet and current literature on the study. Descriptive statistics, gross margin as well as net return analytical techniques were tools employed for analysing the field data. Results showed that, the mean farm size of the male headed farming households was 1.22ha while that of their female headed counterparts was 1ha. While only 29 members of the female headed households obtained their farmlands through inheritance, 94 of their male counterparts got their own from the same source. The Net Farm Income (NFI) results showed that the female headed households had a mean of ₦124,171 that of the male was ₦184,815 with Benefit-Cost-Ratio (BCR) of ₦1.77 and ₦1.90 respectively. Furthermore, the result also indicate that, women in this area are limited in their access to productive farm resources such as land, credit as well as modern farm implements among others etc. It is therefore recommended that, there is a need for the farmers in this area to have more access to farm productive inputs to enable them increase the scale of their farm operation thus increasing their farm profit as already shown by their BCR and hence, enhancing their farm income as well as achieving food security objective in the long run. [A, Henri-Ukoha et al. Gender and Net Farm Income of Cassava Farmers under Individual Land Tenure System in Abia State.. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(2):47-54]. Manuscript profile
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      123 - An Evaluation of The Major Constraints Hampering the Effective Functioning of the Nigerian Agricultural Cooperative and Rural Development Bank in Kogi State, Nigeria
      Adofu I Orebiyi J. S Otitolaiye J. O
      The study evaluated the major constraints hampering the effective functioning of the Nigerian Agricultural Cooperative and Rural Development Bank (NACRDB) in Kogi State, Nigeria. Using the food crop farmers as a case study, a multi-stage random sampling technique was us More
      The study evaluated the major constraints hampering the effective functioning of the Nigerian Agricultural Cooperative and Rural Development Bank (NACRDB) in Kogi State, Nigeria. Using the food crop farmers as a case study, a multi-stage random sampling technique was used to select three agricultural zone in Kogi State ( zone A, B, and C).Primary data were collected through the use of structured questionnaire which were administered to farmers who are clients of NACRDB. The major tool of analysis is the Likert scale of analysis. The study find out that, while unfavourable organization policy, insufficient funding, poor group cohesiveness, poor spread of network of branches, politics in allocation of credit, inadequate competent staff and lack of information are seen as major constraints hampering the effective functioning of NACRDB in Kogi State, high interest rate, misappropriation of fund and inadequate personnel training and development is not a major constraint hampering the effective functioning of NACRDB in Kogi State. [Adofu et al. An Evaluation of The Major Constraints Hampering the Effective Functioning of the Nigerian Agricultural Cooperative and Rural Development Bank in Kogi State, Nigeria. A Case Study of Food Crop Farmers Loan Beneficiaries. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2012; 2(2):49-53]. Manuscript profile
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      124 - Labour Information Utilization by Farmers in SW Nigeria
      Odeleye Taiwo Grace
      Farmers need up to date information on efficient use and management of labour for agricultural production. Yet, they lack adequate and needed information. Hence, this study was undertaken to explore the sources and use of labour information by farmers in southwestern Ni More
      Farmers need up to date information on efficient use and management of labour for agricultural production. Yet, they lack adequate and needed information. Hence, this study was undertaken to explore the sources and use of labour information by farmers in southwestern Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select respondents for the study. Primary data were collected to elicit information from the farmers on sources and use of labour related information and data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Extension agents, input dealers, NGOs, produce marketers, private organization, radio, television, posers, acquaintances, farmers’ association/cooperative and advisory leaflets were sources of information used by farmers. However, finding showed that acquaintance was the common source of labour information used by 53.8 percent food crop farmers and 44.8 percent tree crop farmers. They obtained information on labour management, availability, types and use from the above listed information sources. Very few use extension agents as source of labour information in Oyo state and 42.5 percent tree crop farmers indicated that they had no contact with the extension agents. There is need to enhance farmers’ access to needed information on labour related matters and extension services should be improved to impact more technical knowledge to farmers. Manuscript profile
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      125 - Gender Differentials in Food Output and Food Security in Anambra State Southeast Nigeria
      Chinasaokwu Onyemauwa Nnamdi Ehirim Jones Lemchi Nkiru Ben-Chendo Okwudili Nwosu Chiemeka Onwuegbuchi
      The study assessed the quantity and value of food crop outputs of the gender categories in the Anambra state. At this research estimated the quantity and energy content of food stuffs consumed as well as required by each gender headed households, estimated the extent an More
      The study assessed the quantity and value of food crop outputs of the gender categories in the Anambra state. At this research estimated the quantity and energy content of food stuffs consumed as well as required by each gender headed households, estimated the extent and magnitude of food security and insecurity in the area among the gender categories and examined the determinants of food security in the area among household categories. The samples were drawn from a stratified population which was divided into two gender-headed household categories so as to ensure a homogenous population. Data were collected using questionnaire and interview schedule from 3 communities which were selected using purposive sampling method. Two villages were selected from each of the communities. Ten respondents which comprises of 5 males and 5 females were randomly selected from each village, thus giving a sample size of 60 respondents (30males and 30females) used for the study. Data were analyzed with the use of descriptive and inferential statistics. Logistic regression was used to correlate the food security status and socio-economic features of the various gender-headed households. The result shows that the male-headed households produced 5077.17 kg of food crops output as against the female-headed households’ 2733.27 kg. Also the male-headed households required 1183.50 kilocalories (Kcal) energy worth of food crops daily to be food secure but consumed 2246.90kcal. This implies that they are food secure since the Kcal consumed was greater than required. The female-headed households, on the other hand, required 1161.90kcal daily but consumed 684.72kcal. This implies that the female-headed households are less food secure than male-headed households in the state. Those factors found to affect the food security status of households in the area should be emphasized for effective policy intervention strategy. [Onyemauwa, N. E et al. Gender Differentials in Food Output and Food Security in Anambra State Southeast Nigeria. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology in Extension and Education Systems, 2013; 3(1):53-59] Manuscript profile
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      126 - Study On Flow Erosivity Indicators for Predicting Soil Detachment Rate at Low Slopes
      Elham Sirjani Majid Mahmoodabadi
      Soil detachment is known as an important process in soil erosion and its quantification is necessary to establish a basic understanding of erosion. This study was carried out to find the best flow erosivity indicator(s) for predicting detachment rate at low slopes. For More
      Soil detachment is known as an important process in soil erosion and its quantification is necessary to establish a basic understanding of erosion. This study was carried out to find the best flow erosivity indicator(s) for predicting detachment rate at low slopes. For this purpose, 12 experiments including 6 flow discharges (75, 100, 125, 150, 175 and 200 ml/s) and 2 slope gradients (1.5 and 2%) were performed. Accordingly, different stream powers less than 0.175 W m-2 were simulated. Soil detachment rate was related to flow depth, flow velocity, unit flow discharge, shear stress, unit stream power and stream power as erosivity indicators. The results showed that the relationship was more significant at slope 2% (R2>0.94) than slope 1.5% (R2>0.84). Among different indicators, flow velocity and unit stream power exhibited unlinear relationships as exponential, while the others showed linear ones. Considering flow depth, unit flow discharge and unit stream power a range of critical values were obtained at different slopes. It was found that for shallow surface flows, measurement of flow depth is difficult while, unit flow discharge can be measured, accurately. Finally, the finding of this research reveals that stream power is the best indicator for predicting soil detachment rate. [Sirjani and Mahmoodabadi. Study On Flow Erosivity Indicators for Predicting Soil Detachment Rate at Low Slopes. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2012; 2(2):55-61]. Manuscript profile
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      127 - Distribution of Lead and cadmium Levels in the soil of Borkhar District of Isfahan province
      A, Gandomkar M, Hadi
      This study aimed to evaluate regional soil Borkhar of the metals lead and cadmium has been made. In this field study fires visits to the regions. The limit of this study located in the East refineries, petrochemical and power plant to 20 km was selected. The 41 soil sam More
      This study aimed to evaluate regional soil Borkhar of the metals lead and cadmium has been made. In this field study fires visits to the regions. The limit of this study located in the East refineries, petrochemical and power plant to 20 km was selected. The 41 soil samples from depths of 0 to 10 cm in area and were randomized. Soil samples were transported to the laboratory and by air was dry and passed through 2-mil thickness sieve. In the laboratory of physical and chemical characteristics and concentrations of total absorption was measured. The results showed that the concentration of Cadmium in soil is higher than the standard limit and the amount of lead in soil in many parts of the range higherthan the standard limit. Survey maps show that the lead spatial distribution of the region does not special pattern. [A, Gandomkar and M, Hadi. Distribution of Lead and cadmium Levels in the soil of Borkhar District of Isfahan province. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(2):55-59]. Manuscript profile
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      128 - Analysis of Production and Marketing Constraints of Tomato among Rural Farmers in Talensi Nabdam District of Upper East Region of Ghana
      Farida A Fariya A
      The study focused on the analysis of production and marketing constraints of tomato among rural farmers in Talensi Nabdam district of Upper East Region of Ghana.A total of 100 respondents were interviewed using questionnaire. Data was analyzed using descriptive statisti More
      The study focused on the analysis of production and marketing constraints of tomato among rural farmers in Talensi Nabdam district of Upper East Region of Ghana.A total of 100 respondents were interviewed using questionnaire. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics to describe the socio economic characteristics of the farmers and Kendall’s Coefficient of Concordance was used to rank the constraints. Lack of access to credit and lack of reliable market were the major constraints the farmers were facing. Male’s form 89% of the respondents and 11% were females. This indicates that, majority of the tomato farmers were males. Moreover, 55% of the respondents have no access to basic education. 15% have access to primary and 11% to Senior high School and lastly 4% to tertiary institution which means more than half of the tomato farmers were illiterate.77% of the respondents have been in the practice of tomato production for more than 5 years, this result shows that tomato production is an age long profession of the people in the study area Manuscript profile
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      129 - Combating Agricultural Child Labour for National Development: Implications for the Millenium Development Goals in Nigeria
      G.N, Ben-Chendo J. I, Lemchi F.O, Nwosu A, Henri-Ukoha I.U, Nwaiwu
      A simmering crisis in the Nigerian agriculture today involves labour and the crisis manifests itself in the degree of labour availability, labour demand and labour productivity. One of the major products of this crisis is the increased participation of children in paid, More
      A simmering crisis in the Nigerian agriculture today involves labour and the crisis manifests itself in the degree of labour availability, labour demand and labour productivity. One of the major products of this crisis is the increased participation of children in paid, non-familiar agricultural jobs. Agriculture ranks as one of the three most dangerous work activities, along with mining and construction. They are frequently employed as farm labourers, bird scarers, food crop harvesters, processors and hawkers. More than 132 million children,work in agriculture. Child labour is increasing in postharvest processing, transport, marketing and a range of agroindustries. Child labour is maybe one of the most striking indicators identifying vulnerable children and as such pointing to shortcomings in several of the millennium goals as poverty eradication, education for all, gender equality, combating HIV/AIDS and creation of a global partnership for development. Most working children do so after a decision in their parental household. To understand the household labour supply decisions, relations to the labour market and to public interventions is critical in designing programmes in order to achieve the MDGs. The research on child labour represent in this respect a largely untapped resource of knowledge for policymakers in the fields of agriculture, education programmes and poverty reduction programmes. It is recommended in this paper that the legislators in Nigeria should enact laws that will reduce agricultural child labour through the redistribution of the nations resources, women should be integrated in the fight to combat child labour and that alternative income sources should be provided for rural poor families whose children are the most vulnerable. [ G.N, Ben-Chendo. Combating Agricultural Child Labour for National Development: Implications for the Millenium Development Goals in Nigeria. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(2):61-66]. Manuscript profile
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      130 - How can Small Rural Businesses with Emphasis on Entrepreneurship be promoted?
      Masoud Samian Reza Movahedi
      While promoting rural economic enterprises and businesses can contribute to create and strengthen entrepreneurship, this as a crucial strategy will accelerate rural development process. Through extending these businesses and strengthening entrepreneurship among rural pe More
      While promoting rural economic enterprises and businesses can contribute to create and strengthen entrepreneurship, this as a crucial strategy will accelerate rural development process. Through extending these businesses and strengthening entrepreneurship among rural people proper solutions can be found to combine resources both inside and outside the village. It can also assist to provide both prerequisites to improve quality of rural personal and social life as well as necessary tools for sustainable economy and environment for rural people. This study was an attempt to explore some solutions for creating, strengthening and promoting rural small businesses in Hamedan's rural areas. To achieve this, a qualitative methodology through interviewing with 25 experts in the area of rural development was used. A summarized content analysis technique also was used to analyze the qualitative data. The results showed the solutions to develop rural small businesses include implementation of training programs for improving rural skills and abilities especially in technical and economic activities, creation and enforcement the marketing networks, preparation of facilities and necessary possibilities such as banking, insurance and transporting facilities. Manuscript profile
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      131 - Adoption of Soil Conservation Technologies among Farmers in the Upper East Region of Ghana
      Fariya Abubakari Farida Abubakari Victor Owusu
      Soil erosion is one of the most important forms of land degradation that threatens continued and sustained agricultural production in Ghana. The most severely affected areas are the three northern regions especially Upper East Region, where large tracts of land have bee More
      Soil erosion is one of the most important forms of land degradation that threatens continued and sustained agricultural production in Ghana. The most severely affected areas are the three northern regions especially Upper East Region, where large tracts of land have been destroyed by water erosion leading to soil depth reduction and decline in soil fertility. This study was carried out in Talensi Nabdam District of Upper East Region of Ghana to examine the adoption of soil conservation technologies of rural farmers in the district. A random sample of 350 household was selected from seven communities in the district. Questionnaires administered in the area provided primary data needed for analysis. Descriptive statistics were employed in describing the socio-economic characteristic of farmers. Mean was used to rank the constraints and perception indices were used to analyze for the perception of farmers on the various soil conservation technologies. Probit model was used in the analysis of factors that influenced farmer’s decision to adopt soil conservation technologies and among the eight variables fitted in the model, four were found to be significant for stonebunds, three for earthbunds, three for vertiver grass and three for manure. Farmer based organization, household size; extension contact and labour were significant for stonebunds. Education, household size and labour were significant for earthbunds. Gender, household size and extension contact were significant for vertiver grass. Gender, household size and extension contact were significant for manure. Age, marital status and credit have no significant effects on farmers adopting all the conservation technologies. Manuscript profile
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      132 - Radiosensitivity Study for Identifying the Lethal Dose in MR219 (Oryza sativa L. spp. Indica cv. MR219)
      Ali Benjavad Talebi Amin Benjavad Talebi
      The purpose of the research was determine the effects of gamma ray on seed germination, seedling height and root length of Rice (Oryza sativa L. spp. Indica cv. MR219) to identify the Lethal Dosage of the radiation. Paddy seeds of MR219 were exposed to different doses o More
      The purpose of the research was determine the effects of gamma ray on seed germination, seedling height and root length of Rice (Oryza sativa L. spp. Indica cv. MR219) to identify the Lethal Dosage of the radiation. Paddy seeds of MR219 were exposed to different doses of gamma radiations viz 50,100,150,200,250,300,350,400,450,500,600,700,800,900 and 1000 Gy using 60Co as the radiation source. The effect of radiation was determined by measuring the Seed germination, seedling height, root length and emergence under the conditions of the M1 generation. The research results showed that the differences among radiation treatments significantly affect (p<0.01) seedling height and root length. In part of seed germination percentage, insignificant differences were observed. Also the LD25 and LD50 values observed based on the growth reduction of seedlings after treatments occurred during 250 and 450GY of exposure for the variety Oryza sativa L. spp. Indica cv. MR219. [Talebi and Talebi. Radiosensitivity Study for Identifying the Lethal Dose in MR219 (Oryza sativa L. spp. Indica cv. MR219). International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2012; 2(2):63-67]. Manuscript profile
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      133 - Curricula Importance in Enhancing the Capabilities of Agriculture Extension Agents at the Field
      Muhammad Israr Nafees Ahmad Dawood Jan Tahir Ali Shah M. M. Shafi Noshad Khan
      Present study was conducted in the three provinces of Pakistan with the objectives to study the curricula relevancy with the participatory extension, supervision and administration and its practical applicability at the field level. For this extension agents of the sele More
      Present study was conducted in the three provinces of Pakistan with the objectives to study the curricula relevancy with the participatory extension, supervision and administration and its practical applicability at the field level. For this extension agents of the selected provinces were selected purposively. Mail questionnaire were used as instruments for data collection form 227 respondents and were analyzed by using descriptive statistics. Findings of the study revealed that the respondent either strongly agreed or agreed with the statements that the curricula in an extension education program helped them to win farmers trust for effective agriculture extension (93%), organize farmers into participatory learning groups (75%) and answer the questions raised by farmers (89%) and to use audio visual aids respectively (92%). This implies for the acceptance of null hypothesis that the curricula improve the extension agent’s skills in different field levels programs. Respondent were also either strongly agreed or agreed that the curricula in an extension education program helped them to supervise and guide official duties of field staff (87%), monitor the work of junior field staff (85%), maintain office morale (82%) and to develop leadership potential (86%) of the staff at the field. This implies for the acceptance of alternative hypothesis. Furthermore the respondents also reported rated the curricula contents and structure with respect to scope and topics as excellent (14%), good (61%), fair (21%) and poor (4%). The study as a whole concludes that the extension agents perceived the existing curricula as effective and result oriented. The study recommends that to make the curricula more effective for sustainable agriculture development there is a need for looking into the farmer’s needs and expressions, learning and instructional technologies and giving importance to the views of the extension field staff for revision and development of the curricula. Manuscript profile
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      134 - Performance evaluation and economics of production of rabbits fed graded levels of glyricidia leaf protein concentrate as replacement for groundnut cake protein
      M.H, Ogunsipe A.S, Akinbani I, Ibidapo
      The study was conducted to determine optimum dietary inclusion level of Glyricidia leaf protein concentrate (GLPC), for growing rabbits. Thirty five weaned rabbits of mixed sexes were weighed and randomly allocated to five dietary treatments which contained 0, 5, 10, 15 More
      The study was conducted to determine optimum dietary inclusion level of Glyricidia leaf protein concentrate (GLPC), for growing rabbits. Thirty five weaned rabbits of mixed sexes were weighed and randomly allocated to five dietary treatments which contained 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20% GLPC for diets 1 to 5, respectively in a completely randomized design. Diet 1 served as the control diet.Each treatment was replicated seven times with a rabbit to a replicate. Feeds and water were provided ad-libitum throughout the experimental period of 63 days. The results showed that the different test diets did not show any significant difference (P>0.05) in the average weight, feed conversion ratio and feed digestibility by the experimental rabbits. However, feed consumed decreased significantly (P<0.05) above 10%-bassed GLPC diets and lowest (62.91±1.02g/rabbit/day) at 20%-based GLPC diet. Results on economic analysis showed significant reduction in cost of feed/kg weight gain and this was most encouraging at 10%-based GLPC diet (N314.18). Cost differential and relative cost benefit also showed improved savings at 10%-based GLPC diet. The implication therefore is that rabbit production could be better enhanced when GLPC is substituted for GNC at 10% level of inclusion on equi-protein basis. [Ogunsipe et al., Performance evaluation and economics of production of rabbits fed graded levels of glyricidia leaf protein concentrate as replacement for groundnut cake protein]. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(2):67-72]. Manuscript profile
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      135 - Citizens’ Educational Needs in an at-Risk Environment in Trinidad, West Indies
      Cherisse Oliver Wayne G. Ganpat Wendy-Ann P. Isaac
      Trinidad is a small island developing state caught between the need to engage rapid development while respecting and preserving the environment. This study assessed citizens' education needs related to the environmental laws of Trinidad and Tobago. It focused on a dense More
      Trinidad is a small island developing state caught between the need to engage rapid development while respecting and preserving the environment. This study assessed citizens' education needs related to the environmental laws of Trinidad and Tobago. It focused on a densely populated, at- risk area of the country referred to as the East-West (E-W) corridor. Two hundred (200) persons living along the E-W corridor were randomly selected and surveyed using a structured interview schedule to determine their knowledge of three environmental areas: the Litter Act, the Water Pollution Rules and the Public Health Ordinances. It was determined that overall total knowledge of the environmental laws was moderate. The overall knowledge of environmental laws correlated significantly with sex, location of residence and community type. Knowledge regarding the Water Pollution Rules correlated significantly with sex, religion and economic status and knowledge regarding the Litter Act correlated significantly with sex, location and education level and the knowledge regarding the Public Health Ordinances correlated with religion and education level (all at P≤ .05level of significance). Recommendations are for increased education programmes specifically designed to target the intensive residential communities and schools along the corridor. The internet should be the main education tool. [Oliver et al. Citizens’ educational needs in an at-risk environment in Trinidad, West Indies. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2012; 2(2):69-75]. Manuscript profile
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      136 - Analysis of Entrepreneurial Behavior among Cassava Farmers in Ebonyi State, Nigeria
      Oko-Isu Anthony Nwachukwu Ifeanyi Ndubuto Oteh Ukeh Ogbonnaya Njoku Maria Etomchi
      The study assessed the entrepreneurial behaviour of smallholder cassava farmers in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Multistage sampling technique was employed in the selection of 108 cassava farmers across the agricultural zones in Ebonyi state using pretested and structured ques More
      The study assessed the entrepreneurial behaviour of smallholder cassava farmers in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Multistage sampling technique was employed in the selection of 108 cassava farmers across the agricultural zones in Ebonyi state using pretested and structured questionnaire from which data and information were elicited. Analytically, the study employed entrepreneurial behavioural index (EBI) in the assessment of entrepreneurial behaviour of the cassava farmers. The result showed that the overall entrepreneurial behaviour of the cassava farmers posted a mean value of 0.4529 on a range of 0.17 – 0.70. This implies that their minimum entrepreneurial behaviour indicates gross underutilization of entrepreneurial attributes by the farmers while the maximum shows reasonable utilization of entrepreneurial capacity. The study concluded that aggressive agricultural transformation to enhance food security in Nigeria is feasible with effective management of human as well as material resources by promoting entrepreneurial behaviour of farmers. The study therefore recommends amongst others that government at all levels needs to deepen its educational and policy support to farmers through total overhauling of activities/programmes to activate their creativity. Manuscript profile
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      137 - Accumulation and distribution of metals in Phragmites australis (common reed) and Scirpus maritimus (alkali bulrush) in contaminated soils of Lia industrial area
      M, Ebrahimi M, Jafari Gh. R, Savaghebi H, Azarnivand A, Tavili F, Madrid
      The concentration of three metals, zinc, copper and chromium in roots, rhizomes, stems and leaves of Phragmites australis (common reed) and Scirpus maritimus, and in the corresponding sediment and water samples from Lia industrial area (Qazvin, Iran) were investigated t More
      The concentration of three metals, zinc, copper and chromium in roots, rhizomes, stems and leaves of Phragmites australis (common reed) and Scirpus maritimus, and in the corresponding sediment and water samples from Lia industrial area (Qazvin, Iran) were investigated to determine difference in distribution among plant organs. Data were collected at during 1-year period. Results showed that metals concentrations in plant organs decreased in the order of roots › rhizomes › leaves ›stems. Concentration of Zn, Cu and Cr were enriched in roots and rhizomes of both plants in summer and autumn. Stem concentrations of metals in S. maritimus however, had no significant difference throughout 1-year period. In contrast, the metal contents of leaves were elevated in spring and autumn. Patterns of leaves and stem concentration of Zn, Cu and Cr were similar to S. maritimus leaves. [M. Ebrahimi et al. Accumulation and distribution of metals in Phragmites australis (common reed) and Scirpus maritimus (alkali bulrush) in contaminated soils of Lia industrial area. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(2):73-81]. Manuscript profile
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      138 - An Assessment of Agricultural Marketing Information System among Farmers Associations in Kano State, Nigeria
      Hassan Ibrahim Zhou Jing Ibrahim Abdu Mustapha Sanusi Nafiu Bala Sanda
      This study was conducted based on primary data collected using a questionnaire. A total of 90 respondents among farmers associations were interviewed in Kano state of Nigeria. Therefore, double stage stratified and purposive simple random sampling technique was used to More
      This study was conducted based on primary data collected using a questionnaire. A total of 90 respondents among farmers associations were interviewed in Kano state of Nigeria. Therefore, double stage stratified and purposive simple random sampling technique was used to select 30 respondents in each of three (3) farmers associations, one from each of the three (3) agricultural zones of the state. The data were analyzed by SPSS using descriptive statistics. The result revealed that 67% of the farmers were 45years old and below and 79% were literate. Furthermore, 47% joined the association with an aim of contributing to community development while 46% joined for receiving an assistance for farming. Additionally, 57% and 60% required and received agricultural marketing information on production aspect respectively. 71% described extension agents as a source of information. Long distance from source and poor access to communication network was the major problems limiting access to agricultural marketing information Manuscript profile
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      139 - Sustainable Information Exchange and Market Access: Use of Mobile Phone in the Marketing of Food Crops by Farming Households in Rural South East Nigeria
      Agwu N. M. Obasi R. O. Oteh O. U Anuakpado P. A
      The place of information in addressing market access and participation limitation, which hinders farmer’s welfare and poverty reduction efforts in many developing countries, cannot be over-emphasized. This study therefore examined the use of mobile phone in the ma More
      The place of information in addressing market access and participation limitation, which hinders farmer’s welfare and poverty reduction efforts in many developing countries, cannot be over-emphasized. This study therefore examined the use of mobile phone in the marketing of food crops among farming households in rural south east, Nigeria. A multi stage sampling procedures was used in the selection of location and 180 farming households sampled for this study, from which data were collected. The data were analyzed using probit regression model and Z – statistic procedure. Result of the analysis showed that knowledge of the GSM technology, quantity of crops produced, farm size, perceived need for information, distance to markets and income were major determinants of mobile phone use among the respondents. The result of the Z-test statistics also showed that among the selected socio-economic characteristics, educational attainment and age of the respondents had significant differences between users and non-users of mobile phones. The study calls for enlightenment campaign in order to sensitize the rural people on the importance of GSM technology in the transaction of their businesses, improvement in the services provided by the mobile phone service centers/ providers among other things. Manuscript profile
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      140 - Effect of Arbuscular Mycorrhiza fungi application on distribution of phosphorus forms in rhizosphere soils of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)
      Afshin Morovvat Abdolmajid Ronaghi Mehdi Zarei Mostafa Emadi Mohammad Bagher Heidarianpour Leila Gholami
      Appropriate management of soil phosphorus (P) fertility in highly calcareous soils of Iran as around the world should rely upon sound knowledge about the phosphorus reserve and its bioavailability. Despite numerous reports on the positive effects of vesicular arbuscular More
      Appropriate management of soil phosphorus (P) fertility in highly calcareous soils of Iran as around the world should rely upon sound knowledge about the phosphorus reserve and its bioavailability. Despite numerous reports on the positive effects of vesicular arbuscular mycorrhizae (VAM) fungi on phosphorus uptake which is associated to Ectomycorrhiza as a branch of two major branches of group of fungis from mycorrhizal association, surprisingly little data exist on impact of VAM fungi on distribution of soil phosphorus forms in soils. A greenhouse-based study was conducted to investigate the potential effects of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal (AM) fungi application on phosphorus inorganic forms of soil rhizosphere in sunflower plants (Helianthus annuus L.). Results indicated that there is a significant increase in Fe-P fractions (P<0.001) in the rhizospher of the treated sunflowers with AM inoculums compared with untreated sunflowers. It could be potentially attributed to increases in secretion of specific–iron chelates such as hydroxamate siderophore from sunflower roots in +AM sunflowers treatments. [Morovvat et al. Effect of Arbuscular Mycorrhiza fungi application on distribution of phosphorus forms in rhizosphere soils of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.). International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2012; 2(2):77-82]. Manuscript profile
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      141 - Women and Vegetable Production in Abra, Philippines: Benefits and Challenges
      Evangeline P. Agres Leo G. Inocencio Alma C. Aguinaldo
      There is limited literature on how to engage the rural women in agriculture and improve their contributions to household food security and income. This study aimed to contribute to literature on women engagement in agriculture through vegetable production using good agr More
      There is limited literature on how to engage the rural women in agriculture and improve their contributions to household food security and income. This study aimed to contribute to literature on women engagement in agriculture through vegetable production using good agricultural practices. The empirical data used were drawn from technology demonstrations and experimentation, learning fields, and training. Field work ran from May 2010 to November 2010. Participant observation, focus group discussion, individual interviews and survey were used in data collection. The potentials of vegetable production using good agricultural practices in improving women’s household food security and income were investigated. But how gender-responsive is this technology to women farmers? The study was started with 68 women farmers from Barangays Dalaguisen, Pawa and Nagtupacan in Lagangilang, Abra, Philippines. The same technologies and training were given to all women however the volume of vegetables produced and the benefits derived varied among women partners. The major challenge lies in making the women’s vegetable production practices attain maximum potential gain for women, their household and the community. Strategies to determine the champions and profiling the champions is a very important research move to mobilize them. Manuscript profile
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      142 - Mahabad Spring Freezing Forecasting, Using Synoptic Study
      A, Gandomkar
      The quality of pressure distribution over the atmosphere of the sea level and geopotential altitude at different atmosphere layers affect on many climate and meteorology phenomena of the earth surface. One of the important meteorology phenomenon is the occurrence of fro More
      The quality of pressure distribution over the atmosphere of the sea level and geopotential altitude at different atmosphere layers affect on many climate and meteorology phenomena of the earth surface. One of the important meteorology phenomenon is the occurrence of frost phenomenon especially late spring frost. In this surrey, occurring late spring frost days and minimum temperature during these days were determined using the minimum temperature statistic during the solar years 1364-1384 at Mahabad meteorology station. Moreover, the patterns of daily mean pressure distribution over the sea level atmosphere and atmosphere patterns at the layers 850, 700 and 500 HP in Asia Europe and the north of Africa have been mapped and identified and the relationship between frost phenomenon occurrence in Mahabad studied by atmosphere patterns at different atmosphere layers. The studies showed that there is a relationship among the incidence of spring frost phenomenon in Mahabad and pressure distribution over the earth surface and atmosphere patterns at layers 850, 700 and 500 of HP in order that when forming and expanding the high-pressure center in east Europe, the weather temperature decreases in Mahabad and sometimes it goes down below water freezing-point. [A. Gandomkar. Mahabad Spring Freezing Forecasting, Using Synoptic Study. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(2):89-93]. Manuscript profile
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      143 - Application of Information and Communication Technology for Dissemination of Agricultural Information among Farmers: Challenges and Opportunities
      Riti Thapar Kapoor
      Agriculture is the backbone of India’s economy as two-third of the population live in rural areas and directly or indirectly depend on agriculture for their livelihood. India’s food production has improved significantly during the last three decades due to a More
      Agriculture is the backbone of India’s economy as two-third of the population live in rural areas and directly or indirectly depend on agriculture for their livelihood. India’s food production has improved significantly during the last three decades due to all-round efforts but Indian agriculture is still facing a multitude of problems to maximize productivity to feed the continuously increasing population. Access to information and improved communication is a prerequisite for sustainable agricultural development. The use of information and communication technology (ICT) is an important pillar of agriculture extension and different sources and channels of agriculture information can play important role to meet the requirement. The use of modern information technology needs to be promoted for communication among scientists, extension workers and farmers to transfer the information and new technologies in a cost effective manner. An increased access to the scientific knowledge and information through information technology will help people specially the rural communities in making informed decisions and solving their problems by applying scientific methods. The present paper deals with the constraints and work out strategy for making information and communication technology effective for farmers. Information and communication technology is the backbone of modern development in almost all the sectors which can enhance agricultural and rural development by the transformation of the rural communities. Hence efforts should be made for increased and improved investment in ICT infrastructure and capacity development through the proper implementation of ICT policy. Manuscript profile
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      144 - Demand for Institutional Credit from the Nacrdb by Small Scale Farmers in Imo State, Nigeria.
      J. S, Orebiyi C.C, Eze A, Henri-Ukoha F.C, Akubude S.J, Ibitoye
      This study was designed to investigate the demand for institutional credit among small scale farmers in Imo State. A sample of 40 livestock and 50 food crop farmers were selected respectively using multistage random sampling technique. Data were collected with a well st More
      This study was designed to investigate the demand for institutional credit among small scale farmers in Imo State. A sample of 40 livestock and 50 food crop farmers were selected respectively using multistage random sampling technique. Data were collected with a well structured questionnaire administered to a total of 90 randomly selected farmers. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics, inferential statistics and ordinary least square multiple regression technique. Results showed that farm income, interest rate, household size, distance to the bank, expenditure on labour, level of education and farming experience are important factors influencing the demand for institutional credit by farmers. It is recommended that inorder to raise the level of farmers’ income and their standard of living, there is need for credit demand and utilization for farm production. [J. S. Orebiyi et al. Demand for Institutional Credit from the Nacrdb by Small Scale Farmers in Imo State, Nigeria. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(2):83-87]. Manuscript profile
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      145 - Effect of Urbanization on Agricultural Production in Abia State
      Onwuchekwa Raphael Iheke Ukandu Ihuoma
      This study examined the effect of urbanization on agricultural production in Abia State. Specifically, it categorized the land tenancy status of the farmers, analyzed the effect of urbanization on agricultural productivity and identified the constraints to agricultural More
      This study examined the effect of urbanization on agricultural production in Abia State. Specifically, it categorized the land tenancy status of the farmers, analyzed the effect of urbanization on agricultural productivity and identified the constraints to agricultural productivity. Multistage random sampling technique was used to select the respondents. Primary data collected using structured questionnaire and interview schedules were analyzed using frequency counts, means, and percentages and regression analysis. Results showed that majority (81.7%) of the respondents cultivated both on owned and rented farms. Only 10% and 8.3% of the respondents cultivating solely on owned and rented farm lands respectively. The regression result of the effect of urbanization and other factors on agricultural productivity showed that the significant variables influencing productivity were farm size, urbanization, fertilizer/ agrochemical, land tenure system, duration of land use and cost of farm land. The major constraints to increased productivity as noted by the respondents based on their degree of effect were lack of capital for agricultural investment, lack of improved farm inputs, high cost of land, land fragmentation, high population and high cost of planting materials. The study therefore recommend that specific areas should be earmarked for agricultural use only and protected from encroachment and other competing uses through appropriate legislations and policies. Manuscript profile
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      146 - Growth and Heavy Metals Uptake of Puccinellia distans (Jacq.) Parl
      Mahdiyeh Ebrahimi
      The use of plants to remediate contaminated soil has been the most rapidly developing component in environmental cleansing. Although total concentration of heavy metals in soil is used for regulatory review, it also is beneficial to assess the potential for ecosystem im More
      The use of plants to remediate contaminated soil has been the most rapidly developing component in environmental cleansing. Although total concentration of heavy metals in soil is used for regulatory review, it also is beneficial to assess the potential for ecosystem impact through a series of bioassays. One commonly used bioassay is seed germination. In current research study effect of contaminated soil with heavy metals (Pb, Zn, Cu, Fe) on germination and growth of Puccinellia distans were evaluated. Shoot and root concentrations of metals were also measured. Data obtained from the experiment indicated that the plant perform dose-dependent responses to the contaminated soils. Reduction in germination, root and shoot height and biomass were significantly (P<0.05) different when compared to the control. Analysis of tissue concentrations in the plant showed that heavy metals were mainly accumulated in the roots and also plant tissues demonstrated different affinity to take up heavy metals. In all the plant organs, the concentrations of heavy metals increased as the metals contents in the soil increased. [Ebrahimi. Seed Growth and Heavy Metals Uptake of Puccinellia distans (Jacq.) Parl. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2012; 2(2):83-88]. Manuscript profile
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      147 - Effect of Socio-Economic Characteristics on Food Security of Small Scale Farmers in Rawalpindi
      Muhammad Furqan Mirza Badar Naseem Siddiqui Muhammad Hanif Almas Jabeen Ghazala Sadaf Amina Nauman Saba Shakeel Maria Munawwar
      About half of the population in Pakistan is food insecure. The study focused the food secure population and the strategies for reducing poverty in district Rawalpindi. The study was carried out in district Rawalpindi in the Punjab province of Pakistan. Simple random sam More
      About half of the population in Pakistan is food insecure. The study focused the food secure population and the strategies for reducing poverty in district Rawalpindi. The study was carried out in district Rawalpindi in the Punjab province of Pakistan. Simple random sampling technique was used for this research study in district Rawalpindi. A sample of 120 respondents was selected. Then the data was analyzed through SPSS. It was concluded that majority people have low income, high food expenditures, low educational level affecting food security and government policies were not satisfactory to ensure food security. Moreover significant associations were found between education and food security and food security with the government policies. It was experienced that the more the people were educated were food secure. Manuscript profile
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      148 - Erosion Hazard Index Methodology (EHIM) for Streams Erodibility Assessment (Ardabil-Province)
      Reza Talaei Farzaneh Azimi Seyed Ahmad Hosseini
      An erosion hazard index methodology (EHIM) was developed for assessing stream erosion. The index of stream erosion is designed as a management tool. Assessing stream erosion involves consideration of a range of aspects of streams and a value judgment about a desirable s More
      An erosion hazard index methodology (EHIM) was developed for assessing stream erosion. The index of stream erosion is designed as a management tool. Assessing stream erosion involves consideration of a range of aspects of streams and a value judgment about a desirable state. The assessment of the erosion indicators of streams was based on a state-wide assessment of physical stream condition. A scale from 0 to 100 was chosen as a basis for ranking where an erosion hazard index (EHI) of 100 indicates the very extensive possible erosion state and one of zero the stable or no erosion possible erosion state. In the EHIM five steps are necessary for calculation: to measure and select of basic and additional indicators, to calculate sub-EHIi for all selected indicators, to determine weighting factors for all selected indicators, to calculate a synthetic EHI using the sub-EHIi and weighting factors for all selected indicators and final step: to assess stream erosion based on synthetic EHI values. The EHIM was applied to a 378 number of Ardabil Province (NW of IRAN) for assessment and comparison purposes. Length of stream erosion (LE) was selected to serve as a basic indicator, while erosion susceptibility of lithology (LESi), length of streams with lateral erosion (LLAE), length of streams with bed erosion (LB), the plant cover and human impacts (LAHE), pasture lands (LPE) and their relationships and discharge of floods (Q2.33) were used as additional indicators. The results suggest that the EHIM is a valuable relatively uncomplicated methodology with simple principles, ease of calculation, reliable and intuitive results. As a practical planning tool, it can be widely used for the quantitative assessment and comparison of stream erosion states for a series of different streams or more complicated stream systems .However, planning for river management systems is complicated by a variety of uncertainties but this paper presents the development of a simple assessment model for river management under uncertainty. [Talaei et al. Erosion Hazard Index Methodology (EHIM) for Streams Erodibility Assessment (Ardabil-Province). International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2012; 2(2):89-97]. Manuscript profile
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      149 - Factors affecting the Market Development of Aquatics and Products Processed from them (Case Study: Sarpolzahab Township)
      Mohammd Bagher Arayesh
      The main purpose of the present study was to investigate effective factors of the market development of aquatics and products processed from them. The present research was applied research. Also, it was quantity research and in terms of the method of collecting data was More
      The main purpose of the present study was to investigate effective factors of the market development of aquatics and products processed from them. The present research was applied research. Also, it was quantity research and in terms of the method of collecting data was a survey research. The Statistical population of this study consisted of experts of Agricultural Jihad Organization, experts of Agricultural Bank, fish growers and fish sellers of Sarpolzahab township which all of them were studied by using census method (N=221). The main data collection instrument was a researcher made questionnaire. The face and content validity has been confirmed by a panel of experts consisting of faculty member of agricultural extension at Islamic Azad University of Ilam Branch. Also the Reliability has been determined by Using the Coronbach,s alpha formula (0.94). For data analysis, descriptive and inferential statistics were used. The results of the exploratory factor analysis of research indicated that technical and professional, political, educational – administrative, production, supportive, marketing, export, type of product and geographical factors have been able to explain in total 73.087% of total variance of development of the market of aquatics and products processed from them. Manuscript profile
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      150 - Enhancing Farmer Productive Capacity: Case of Action Research Based Conservation Agriculture
      Christopher Tafara Gadzirayi Never Mafuse Vincent Munyati
      The study sought to explore approaches for co-creation of conservation agriculture (CA) knowledge amongst farmers, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), government and specialist researchers. The aim of the study was to explore farmer initiated food security strategies More
      The study sought to explore approaches for co-creation of conservation agriculture (CA) knowledge amongst farmers, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), government and specialist researchers. The aim of the study was to explore farmer initiated food security strategies among small holder resource poor farmers, through enhancement of farmers’ own productive capacity. The study was born out of the limitations observed in the prescriptive linear extension models that failed during the green revolution in Africa. Five sites were purposively selected to explore farmer initiated CA modeled on action research approach. Action research is flexible, adaptable, cyclical allow for immediate application of findings, emancipatory, builds confidence and is collaborative. Results showed that farmers are socialized to believe that innovations only come from experts, and as a result do not believe that they can solve their own farming problems from own initiated innovations that is, ResearchExtensionFarmer. For a sustainable food security, the study recommends that CA innovations should align with the farmer mental model built on existing norms and values that people are grounded in, i.e. Co-creation of knowledge and not transferring of information from specialists. Farmers ought to rebrand specialist researchers in order to create meaningful, sustainable and relevant wealth. Manuscript profile
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      151 - Impact of Kampe Irrigation Dam on Farming Household Dietary Diversity in Kogi state, Nigeria
      Babatunde R. O Opeyemi G Adenuga H. A Olagunju F. I Aminou A
      A diverse range of foods has been shown to increase energy and micronutrients intake in the developing countries. It is widely asserted in the literature and development circles that farm household access to irrigation dam can provide a significant improvement of househ More
      A diverse range of foods has been shown to increase energy and micronutrients intake in the developing countries. It is widely asserted in the literature and development circles that farm household access to irrigation dam can provide a significant improvement of household’s dietary diversity. This study set out to assess the role of Kampe irrigation dam on farm household dietary diversity in Kogi State, Nigeria. A total of 140 respondents were interviewed using structured questionnaire. A two stage sampling technique was utilized for the study. The respondents were divided into two stratum, namely irrigation beneficiary and irrigation non-beneficiary. A simple random sampling technique was used to draw respondents from the two strata and the collected data were analyzed with frequency counts, percentages, and Poisson regression analysis was used to identify the factors influencing farm household’s dietary diversity score. A structured questionnaire with in-built 24-hour diet recall was use for data collection. A 12-food group model was used to evaluate diet diversity (DD). The results show that majority of the respondents (94.3 %) were married and mostly farmers (100 %). Overall, mean dietary diversity score (DDS) was 6.5, irrigation beneficiaries dietary diversity score was 7 on average and non-beneficiaries score was 6. Age of household head, household size, farm size, and income were all identified to contribute significantly to household dietary diversity score (DDS). In conclusion dietary diversity is fairly good for irrigation beneficiary compared to the overall average in the study area and efforts to improve nutritional status must address the issue of dietary diversity. Manuscript profile
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      152 - Effect of water stress on potato product in the drip irrigation (T-Tape)
      F. Ghasemi Sahebi M. Hekmat E. Pourkhiz
      Using modern irrigation methods such as border irrigation is one way for an optimum usage of water. Potato, for this study, was cultured in a farm located at Kermanshah faculty of agriculture to evaluate the efficiency of border irrigation. The culture potato was the Ag More
      Using modern irrigation methods such as border irrigation is one way for an optimum usage of water. Potato, for this study, was cultured in a farm located at Kermanshah faculty of agriculture to evaluate the efficiency of border irrigation. The culture potato was the Agria variety and the applied treatment were 50, 75, and 100 percent of potato plant`s water requirement. Tapes were 12 m and the distance of levees was 75cm. Plant`s water requirement was determined by the evaporation pan method and the use of crop coefficient. Comparison of the product performance, efficiency of water consumption, hemispheric wetted volume, and moisture distribution skill were the evaluation indexes. Results showed that maximum product performance related to the 100 percent treatment was 34.455 tons per hectare; it was, for 75 and 50 percent treatments, 25.938 and 19.168 tons per hectare, respectively. Water use efficiency for 100, 75, and 50 percent treatments was 3.59, 3.55, and 3.53 kg of potato tuber for consuming 1m3 of water. Comparing the product performance in SAS software, treatments were classified in different groups; significant difference was observed between them. [F. Ghasemi Sahebi et al. Effect of water stress on potato product in the drip irrigation (T-Tape). International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(2):95-98]. Manuscript profile
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      153 - Studying Relationship between Socio-Cultural, Economical and Managerial Factors with the Participation Rate of Agricultural Cooperatives’ Members (Case Study, Shirvan Chardavol Township, Ilam Province, Iran)
      Mohammad Bagher Arayesh
      The purpose of this research was studying relationship between socio- cultural, economical and managerial factors with the participation rate of agricultural cooperative's members in the Shirvan Chardavol township in the Ilam province, Iran. The method of this study is More
      The purpose of this research was studying relationship between socio- cultural, economical and managerial factors with the participation rate of agricultural cooperative's members in the Shirvan Chardavol township in the Ilam province, Iran. The method of this study is descriptive-correlative. A researcher made questionnaire was used as the tool for gathering data. The face and content validity of the questionnaire were confirmed by university professors and cooperatives experts. Also the reliability of the questionnaire was confirmed through calculating the Cornbach’s coefficient (α = 0.80). Population of this study included 751 active members of Shirvan-Chardavol county agricultural cooperatives. 260 people were selected as the sample based on using Morghan table. The classified proportional random sampling method was used in this study. Data processing was performed using SPSS estatistial software, as well as descriptive estatistics (central and inferential indexes) and analytical statistices (correlation coefficients analysis). The correlation coefficient results showed that there was significant relationship between socio- cultural, economical and managerial factors with level of participation of agricultural cooperatives members. Manuscript profile
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      154 - Integrated Pest Management Farmer Field School for Sustainable Agriculture
      Pawan Singh Bhandari
      The study was conducted among the two farmer groups in Bhaktapur and Kavre districts of Nepal. The main objective of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness of IPM FFS on creating awareness and disseminating the knowledge on sustainable pest management to the farmers More
      The study was conducted among the two farmer groups in Bhaktapur and Kavre districts of Nepal. The main objective of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness of IPM FFS on creating awareness and disseminating the knowledge on sustainable pest management to the farmers and to assess the relationships between enhanced IPM knowledge and adoption of IPM strategies by the farmers. The study has been based on data collected through personal interview with the farmers, focus group discussion, personal observation in the farmers field, discussions with the leader farmers, agro-vet owners, farmer facilitators of the FFS and also on secondary data collected from related publications of various organizations. The study has revealed that FFS is being an effective tool in increasing IPM knowledge and techniques of ecological pest management among the farmers. Farmers after participation in the IPM FFS were more confident in managing their fields and taking pest control decisions and have been reducing the use of hazardous chemical pesticides and adoption of eco-friendly pest control measures was on the move. This justifies the potential of IPM FFS as an effective mechanism for increasing both knowledge of IPM and the adoption of IPM strategies. [Pawan Singh Bhandari. Integrated Pest Management Farmer Field School for Sustainable Agriculture. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2012; 2(2):99-103]. Manuscript profile
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      155 - Determinants of Poverty among Rural Households in South Western States, Nigeria
      Olubunmi Lawrence Balogun
      Nigeria represents one of the paradoxes of development in which case the nation is rich but her people are poor. This study examines the rate of poverty among rural households in South western, Nigeria. A random multistage sampling was employed for the study. Ekiti and More
      Nigeria represents one of the paradoxes of development in which case the nation is rich but her people are poor. This study examines the rate of poverty among rural households in South western, Nigeria. A random multistage sampling was employed for the study. Ekiti and Osun states were randomly selected from the six states in South-western Nigeria. This was followed by random selection of two Local Government Areas from each senatorial district of the states. Lastly, data were randomly collected from three hundred and ninety-nine households using structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Foster-Greer-Thorbecke (FGT) weighted poverty indices and Tobit regression. Mean age and household size were 41.3±11.4years and 6.0±2.2 respectively. The monthly mean per adult equivalent household expenditure of the households was N 4396.3. At a poverty line of N2930.90, fifty-two percent of the households were poor. The result of Tobit regression shows that age, household size, asset value and presence of toilet facility significantly affected poverty. [Olubunmi Lawrence Balogun. Determinants of Poverty among Rural Households in South Western States, Nigeria. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(3):99-104]. Manuscript profile
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      156 - Gender Analysis of Access and Utilisation of Information and Communication Technologies in Ekiti state
      O. T Yekinni K. M Sunday I. O Badiru
      There is disparity in access to Information and Communication Technologies between male and female especially in developing countries. This study did a gender analysis of access and use of ICTs in Ekiti state, Nigeria. Multistage sampling procedure was used to select 17 More
      There is disparity in access to Information and Communication Technologies between male and female especially in developing countries. This study did a gender analysis of access and use of ICTs in Ekiti state, Nigeria. Multistage sampling procedure was used to select 178 respondents. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics and t-test at α0.05. Radio (198.7), mobile phones (186.4) and television (182.9) were the mostly accessed ICT tools. More (30.7%) male had appreciable access to ICTs than (25.6%) female. Also, more (25.6%) male use ICTs appreciably than (23.9%) female and the pattern of ICT preferences (radio, television, and mobile phone) were the same among them. More (35.8%) female had substantial constraints to ICTs than (22.7%) male, and significantly different (t=-3.744) in constraints to ICTs access and use. Manuscript profile
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      157 - Factors Affecting on Development of Processing and Complementary Industries of Date Palm in Khouzestan Province
      Azadeh N. Noorivandi
      The purpose of this research was identifying factors affecting the development of processing and complementary industries of date palm in Khouzestan province. The method of research was causal comparative. The population of this research was managers in processing and More
      The purpose of this research was identifying factors affecting the development of processing and complementary industries of date palm in Khouzestan province. The method of research was causal comparative. The population of this research was managers in processing and complementary industries of date palm products of Khouzestan province (N=100). The return rate was 94% (N=94). By census method all of managers were selected for participation in the study. A questionnaire was developed to gather information regarding factors affecting on development of processing and complementary industries of date palm products. The questionnaire was pilot tested and reliability was estimated by calculating Cronbach’s alpha. Reliability was favorable (Cronbach's alpha=0.85). Data collected were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Based on the results most important items for human development of processing and complementary industries of date palm farms were: development of information management (M= 3.45, SD= 1.18), knowledge and information up-to-date (M= 2.92, SD= 1.09), scientific behavior development (M= 2.92, SD= 1.24), social participation development (M= 2.69, SD= 1.22). Also to categorize factors affecting development in processing and complementary industries of date palm products, and to determine the variance explained by each factor, an exploratory factor analysis approach was followed. These factors include: economic characters, managerial skills, infrastructure, expansion of monitoring and eliminating the inflexible procedures and customer oriented. Based on the results, it is recommended that these factors should be considered. Manuscript profile
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      158 - Barriers the Success of Water Users Cooperatives in Dashte Azadegan and Hoveyzeh Townships, Khuzestan Province, Iran
      Keyvan Torfi Ahmad Reza Ommani Cyrus Salmanzadeh
      The purpose of this research was identified barriers to the successof water users' cooperatives in Dashte Azadegan and Hoveyzeh Townships, Khuzestan Province, Iran. This research was an applied study and the research method was descriptive. Members of water users' coope More
      The purpose of this research was identified barriers to the successof water users' cooperatives in Dashte Azadegan and Hoveyzeh Townships, Khuzestan Province, Iran. This research was an applied study and the research method was descriptive. Members of water users' cooperatives considered as statistical population. The sample size was 256 farmers based on Krejcie &Morgan table. After designing and validating the questionnaire, the questionnaire was pre-tested among 30 people and Cronbach alpha was determined between 0.711 to 0.851. The main tool was a questionnaire. All data processing and statistical analysis was performed using the software SPSS20. Based on the results of factor analysis the factors were categorized into four main components, which have been named infrastructure, economical, managerial and organizational, cultural and social factors. The obtained results from th Manuscript profile
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      159 - Factor Affecting Rain-Water-Harvesting Technology Adoption and Farmers Practices against Drought and Water Shortage in Eastern Hararghe Low Land, Ethiopia
      Jafer Mume Aman Kemal
      Rain-water-harvesting is one of the means by which agricultural production can be increased to meet the growing food demands in all regions. The study indentified the factor affecting rain-water-harvesting technology adoption for irrigation and farmers practice in water More
      Rain-water-harvesting is one of the means by which agricultural production can be increased to meet the growing food demands in all regions. The study indentified the factor affecting rain-water-harvesting technology adoption for irrigation and farmers practice in water harvesting against drought in lowland woreda, Eastern Hararghe, Oromia Region. Both primary and secondary data were collected for the study. Primary data were collected from 190 sample households using questionnaire prepared during june15-july20/2014. The study implemented logistic regression model to identify factor affecting rain water harvesting adoption. Logistic regression estimation revealed that age of household head, education level, number of livestock in TLU, size of land holding, distance between home and farmers extension center and labor force the member are significantly affected the rain water harvesting adoption decision of household in study area. The results also show that on average rain water harvesting adopter households and non-adopter households had around 5043 and 2962 ETB respectively. This means, households that adopted rain-water-harvesting ponds were better off in total farm income compared to non-adopter households. Manuscript profile
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      160 - Analysis of Precipitation Climate and Evapotranspiration in Kerman of Iran
      Shahram Karimi-Googhari
      Rainfall and evapotranspiration are the two most popular climatic factors which have crucial function on agricultural production. Rainfall can be directly measured easily in an area but evapotranspiration is estimated from weather data. In this study reference evapotran More
      Rainfall and evapotranspiration are the two most popular climatic factors which have crucial function on agricultural production. Rainfall can be directly measured easily in an area but evapotranspiration is estimated from weather data. In this study reference evapotranspiration ETo was estimated using Penman–Monteith equation. Monthly rainfall and evapotarnspiration were plotted and compared in order to determine moisture deficit periods for two main several stations in Kerman Province which located in south east of I.R. of Iran. Temporal variation of annual rainfall was analysed using rainfall anomaly index. It was found that the moisture deficit in both stations is obvious for whole year and irrigation requirement is high for agricultural production. ETo showed relatively low variation with time while year-to-year rainfall variability was very high. Rainfall Anomaly Index (RAI) values was plotted and from these plots information on rainfall pattern over the past 33 years, such as drought years was obtained. [Shahram Karimi-Googhari. Analysis of Precipitation Climate and Evapotranspiration in Kerman of Iran. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(3):105-108]. Manuscript profile
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      161 - Analysis of Factors Determining Households Food Security in Pastoral Area Oromia Region, Moyale District, in Ethiopia
      Amsalu Mitiku Bekabil Fufa Beyene Tadese
      This study examined the status and determinants of rural households’ food security in Moyale district of pastoral area, Oromia regional state, in Ethiopia. Both secondary and primary data were used for the study. The study was based on the survey of a total of 100 More
      This study examined the status and determinants of rural households’ food security in Moyale district of pastoral area, Oromia regional state, in Ethiopia. Both secondary and primary data were used for the study. The study was based on the survey of a total of 100 farmers randomly selected using a three-stage sampling technique. Analytical tools used include descriptive statistics, Foster-Greer-Thorbecke (FGT) model and logit model. The findings revealed that about 49.5% and 50.5% of pastoral households were food insecure and food secure respectively. Logit model analysis result showed total farm income, off-farm income and livestock holding households were the major factors positively and significantly influence food security status. However, family size negatively affects household food security in the study area. The findings suggest the following set of policy recommendation. Identifying and understanding factors that are responsible for household food security status and its determinants is important to combat food security problems at the household level. The study findings suggest that in selecting priority intervention areas, the food security strategy should consider statistically significant variables as the most important areas. [Amsalu Mitiku et al. Analysis of Factors Determining Households Food Security in Pastoral Area Oromia Region, Moyale District, In Ethiopia. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2012; 2(3):105-110]. Manuscript profile
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      162 - Determinants of the Utilization of Healthcare Services among Farmers in Oyo State, Nigeria
      Omoniwa A. E Awoyemi T. T
      The main asset of farmers is their labour and the utilization of healthcare services will help to improve their health and thus productivity. Some of the problems inhibiting proper utilization of healthcare services in Nigeria include non-availability, inaccessibility a More
      The main asset of farmers is their labour and the utilization of healthcare services will help to improve their health and thus productivity. Some of the problems inhibiting proper utilization of healthcare services in Nigeria include non-availability, inaccessibility and high cost of medical care. The aim of this paper is to examine the determinants of the Utilization of Healthcare Services among farmers in Oyo State. A multistage random sampling technique was used to solicit responses from 140 farmers across two agro-ecological zones of Oyo State. The distance to healthcare services, the quality of treatment, cost of treatment, the availability of healthcare services, type of healthcare services and the method of financing healthcare services were found to significantly influence the utilization of healthcare services among farmers in Oyo State. The study therefore recommends that efforts should be made to provide accessible primary healthcare service centres such that the farmers do not have to walk long distances to access healthcare services. Also, improved healthcare facilities and competent medical personnel should be provided for the farmers at little or no cost so as to improve the utilization rate by farmers who cannot afford medical care Manuscript profile
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      163 - Analysis of Information Needs and Accessibility among Artisanal Fishermen in Benue State, Nigeria
      O. J, Okwu M. A, Yahaya C. P. O, Obinne
      The study analyzed the information needs and accessibility of artisanal fisher folk in Benue State, Nigeria. Multistage sampling technique was used to select two fishing communities from each of the three agro-ecological zones in the study area. A structured questionnai More
      The study analyzed the information needs and accessibility of artisanal fisher folk in Benue State, Nigeria. Multistage sampling technique was used to select two fishing communities from each of the three agro-ecological zones in the study area. A structured questionnaire was used to collect primary data from 222 respondents. Descriptive statistics showed that artisanal fisher folk were mostly married male adults with low level of formal education, low income, and low use of modern technologies. The chi-square test revealed that there was a significant relationship between access to needed information and the output of the artisanal fisher folk at 1% level of significance. Logit regression test revealed that age, education and household size had significant effect on fisher folk access to needed fisheries information. Important areas of information need of the fisher folk were, sources of micro credit, modern fish capture methods and aqua-culture. It was recommended that adequate fisheries extension services should be provided in the fishing communities. [O. J, Okwu et al. Analysis of Information Needs and Accessibility among Artisanal Fishermen in Benue State, Nigeria. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(3):109-115]. Manuscript profile
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      164 - Economic Analysis of Maize Production in Ogori Magongo Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria
      A.B. Mohammed A.F. Ayanlere U. Ibrahim Muhammed Lawal
      The study assessed economic of maize production in Ogori/Magongo local government area of Kogi State. To this end, effort was made to examine the socio economic characteristics of the maize farmers, determine the resource use efficiency, problems as well as profitabilit More
      The study assessed economic of maize production in Ogori/Magongo local government area of Kogi State. To this end, effort was made to examine the socio economic characteristics of the maize farmers, determine the resource use efficiency, problems as well as profitability of maize production in the area. To achieve the objectives of this study 48 maize farmers where randomly selected from 5 wards from the local government area, three wards from Ogori and two wards from Magongo. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, gross margin and multiple regression models. Results showed that 68.75% of farmers used hired labor, 93.75% personal savings and 70.83% used seed from previous harvest for their farm operations. Analysis revealed that farm size, fertilizer and seed were significant factors influencing output level. Estimated efficiency ratio (r) shows that resources where underutilized and the gross margin per hectare of land was N 35,370, implying that maize production is profitable in the study. The problems identified by maize farmers were inadequate capital (68.75%), lack of improved seed (52%) while (31%) of the farmers lacked fertilizer to increase production. [A. B. Mohammed et al. Economic Analysis of Maize Production in Ogori / Magongo Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2012; 2(3):111-115]. Manuscript profile
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      165 - An Assessment of Farmers` Awareness on Extension Services in Nigeria: The Case of Farming Households in Kano State
      Hassan Ibrahim Zhou Jing Li Min
      This research was based on primary data collected through well designed and pre-tested questionnaire, to determine awareness of farmers on extension methods used by ADP in Kano state of Nigeria. Multistage sampling technique was used, in which three local governments we More
      This research was based on primary data collected through well designed and pre-tested questionnaire, to determine awareness of farmers on extension methods used by ADP in Kano state of Nigeria. Multistage sampling technique was used, in which three local governments were randomly selected. Secondly, three wards one each from the selected local governments (Danbatta, Gaya and Madobi) were randomly selected. Thirdly, three villages (one from each ward) were selected. The total number of sample respondent was 120 (40 farming households from each village). The data collected were analyzed using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences). The Result reveals that, majority of the farmers interviewed are 35 years of age and below and 105 out of 120 farmers can read and write. The result further revealed that 57% of them have attended educational level up to senior secondary school while only 7% had post-secondary education. Furthermore, 67% of the respondents had 15years and below farming experience. However, 32% of the respondents had no contact with extension while 68% had contact with extension service. Accordingly, the farmers ranked radio as first extension methods, followed by farm and home visit. Regression analysis indicated that contact with extension personnel influenced effectiveness of extension service. Finally, to satisfy their need, farmers should be involved in planning and implementation of extension service. Manuscript profile
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      166 - Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) Compliance of Extension Personnel Inimo State Agricultural Extension Service Delivery System of Nigeria
      Ibezim G. M. C Osondu C. K
      The purpose of the study was to examine compliance of extension personnel in Imo state agricultural extension service delivery system of Nigeria. A purposive and multi-stage random sampling was used to select 105 extension personnel from the three agricultural zones of More
      The purpose of the study was to examine compliance of extension personnel in Imo state agricultural extension service delivery system of Nigeria. A purposive and multi-stage random sampling was used to select 105 extension personnel from the three agricultural zones of the state. Data generated were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages, as well as mean score and correlation analysis. Results showed that the extension personnel in the state had a favourable and clear perception of relevance of ICTs for extension service delivery but only used radios, televisions, mobile phones and short message service (SMS) frequently. Generally, they were not able to use computer-based ICTs to perform extension tasks. Results showed that level of education, work experience and income had positive relationship at 5% level of significance with the number of ICTs the extension personnel had access to. ICT training should be built into the regular or periodic training programmes of extension personnel to make them ICTs compliant for improved agricultural productivity and to keep abreast of the current global trend. Manuscript profile
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      167 - Analyzing Knowledge of Rural Cooperatives Managers in Khouzestan Province toward Electronic Commerce
      Elahe Kiani
      The purpose of this research was analyzing knowledge of rural cooperatives managers in Khouzestan province toward electronic commerce, Iran. The research method was correlative descriptive. The population of this study included rural cooperatives managers in Khuzestan p More
      The purpose of this research was analyzing knowledge of rural cooperatives managers in Khouzestan province toward electronic commerce, Iran. The research method was correlative descriptive. The population of this study included rural cooperatives managers in Khuzestan province. The total number of members was 101 people. Due to the limited population, census method was used. Questionnaire reliability was estimated by calculating Cronbach’s alpha and it was appropriate for this study. There was between 0.771 to 0.842. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). To reach the research objectives, appropriate statistical procedures for description were used. Data analysis was carried out through data description and data inferential analysis. Based on the results 65% of managers had low and very low knowledge toward electronic commerce in rural cooperatives. The results of research showed the correlation between level of education, creativity, technical requirements, social requirements, educational requirements, managerial requirements, economical requirements, political requirements with knowledge of electronic commerce in rural cooperatives was significant. Also the result of regression analysis by stepwise method indicated level of education, creativity, attitude to technical requirements, social requirements, educational requirements, managerial requirements, economical requirements and political requirements may well explain for 78.9% changes (R2 = 0.789) in knowledge of managers. Manuscript profile
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      168 - Constraints to Effective Use of Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) among Small-scale Farmers in Anambra State, Nigeria
      E.N. Ajani
      The study was carried out in Anambra State, Nigeria. Questionnaire was used to collect data from a sample of one hundred and eight (108) small-scale farmers. Percentage, mean score, standard deviation and factor analysis were used for data analysis. The duration of the More
      The study was carried out in Anambra State, Nigeria. Questionnaire was used to collect data from a sample of one hundred and eight (108) small-scale farmers. Percentage, mean score, standard deviation and factor analysis were used for data analysis. The duration of the study was June 2009 and March, 2010. Results of the study indicated that the major constraints to effective use of ICTs by small- scale farmers were cost of mobile phones, computer, television, etc (M= 2.67); no electricity to charge phones (M= 2.65); poor network coverage for mobile phones, television and Internet services (M= 2.51); inability to pay service charge for Internet services (M= 2.36); high cost of air-time for mobile phones (M= 2.36); non-durability of electronic devices (M= 2.33), among others. The study recommends that efforts are highly needed by the government to invest in rural ICT infrastructure, training and development; this will necessitate effective use of ICTs by the end users. [E. N. Ajani. Mohammed et al. Constraints to Effective Use of Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) among Small-scale Farmers in Anambra State, Nigeria. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2012; 2(3):117-122]. Manuscript profile
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      169 - Role of Agricultural Extension Courses in Adoption of Sustainable Agriculture (Case Study: Wheat Farmers of Shoushtar Township)
      Azadeh Noorollah Noorivandi
      Identifying role of extension system in adoption of new technologies have important role to developing favorable extension systems. For supporting sustainable agriculture in Iran needs extension systems to be carefully thought and accurately implemented. The purpose of More
      Identifying role of extension system in adoption of new technologies have important role to developing favorable extension systems. For supporting sustainable agriculture in Iran needs extension systems to be carefully thought and accurately implemented. The purpose of this is analyzing role of extension activities in adoption of sustainable agriculture. Based on the results the attending agricultural extension and education courses was very important because significant differences were observed in adoption of all items of sustainable agriculture between participators and non participators in extension courses. Linear regression was used for predicting changes in farmers' knowledge toward sustainable agriculture. Level of education, technical knowledge regarding sustainable agriculture, income, social participation, social status, job satisfaction may well explain for 66.4% in Knowledge toward sustainable agriculture practices. [Azadeh Noorollah Noorivandi. Role of Agricultural Extension Courses in Adoption of Sustainable Agriculture. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(3):117-120]. Manuscript profile
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      170 - Optimization of Culture Conditions for Keratinase Production in Streptomyces Sp. JRS19 for Chick Feather Wastes Degradation
      T. Jayalakshmi P. Krishnamoorthy G. Ramesh kumar P. Sivamani
      The aim of this study was to find the optimal conditions of a newly isolated Streptomyces strain JRS 19. Screening for keratinase producing bacteria and their keratinase production were investigated. The keratinase produced by the isolate was purified by chromatographic More
      The aim of this study was to find the optimal conditions of a newly isolated Streptomyces strain JRS 19. Screening for keratinase producing bacteria and their keratinase production were investigated. The keratinase produced by the isolate was purified by chromatographic techniques and the optimum pH maintained was 7.0 and maintained at different temperatures Viz., 20ºC, 25ºC, 30ºC, 35ºC and 40ºC. Besides temperature and pH ,the enzyme is active upon different sources and its effect on carbon, nitrogen , aminoacids were determined and recorded the protein content and enzyme activity. The carbon sources revealed that sucrose was found highly significant, whereas peptone was found highly significant in nitrogen source. The effect of keratinase on amino acid shows that valine was found highly significant. Based on this study, the physio-chemical properties of keratinase were analyzed and the results were interpreted. [T. Jayalakshmi et al. Optimization of Culture Conditions for Keratinase Production in Streptomyces Sp. JRS19 for Chick Feather Wastes Degradation. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(3):121-125 ]. Manuscript profile
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      171 - Effects of Tourism on Rural Development in Iran (Case Study: Myshkhas Rural in Ilam)
      Shima Malekshahi Roya Eshraghi Samani Alireza Poursaeed
      The rural tourism as the most popular forms of tourism can be regarded as a policy to reduce the problems of rural areas. Rural tourism, is a risk factor for the development of rural areas, including most the effects of its population stable, solve unemployment, reduced More
      The rural tourism as the most popular forms of tourism can be regarded as a policy to reduce the problems of rural areas. Rural tourism, is a risk factor for the development of rural areas, including most the effects of its population stable, solve unemployment, reduced migration and more. This study aimed to detection effects of tourism in Myshkhas Rural Center development in Ilam Province. A cross sectional survey which involved the use of researcher-made questionnaire and content validity and reliability of the questionnaire were approved. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select 368 rural households. Data was analyzed using the factor analysis. The results of factor analysis showed that the main impact of the arrival of tourists to rural areas, its effects of socio economic, socio culture, environmental and infrastructure summarized. Manuscript profile
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      172 - Effects of Awareness of Fertilizer Subsidy on the Yield of Crops among Rural Farmers in Ghana
      Fariya Abubakari Farida Abubakari
      The study examines the effects of awareness of fertilizer subsidy on the yield of crops among rural farmers in Ghana. Random sampling was used to select six communities and 10 households per community. They include Bawku, Navrongo, Tolon kumbungu and Walewale from the More
      The study examines the effects of awareness of fertilizer subsidy on the yield of crops among rural farmers in Ghana. Random sampling was used to select six communities and 10 households per community. They include Bawku, Navrongo, Tolon kumbungu and Walewale from the Northern part and Ejura and Atebubu in the Southern part of Ghana. Primary data were collected from the sampled household by administering questionnaire. Descriptive statistics was used in analyzing the data and independent-samples t-test was used to compare the crop yield of farmers that are aware of the fertilizer subsidy program and unaware of the fertilizer subsidy program and mean was used to find the output of the beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries by using SPSS. Out of the 60 farmers interviewed in the study, male households head constituted majority 88.3%.Thepercentages of beneficiaries of the fertilizer subsidy program were 66.7% and that of the non-beneficiaries were 33.3%.Maize recorded the highest average output per acre 10.12kg/acre of beneficiaries of fertilizer subsidy program and the highest average output per acre 11.3kg/acre for the non-beneficiaries of the fertilizer subsidy program. Rice recorded the highest average output per acre 40.10kg/acre of beneficiaries before the fertilizer subsidy program and also recorded the highest average output per acre of beneficiaries after the fertilizer subsidy program. The results of the independent-samples T-test shows that, the group means 16.21 and 12.50 are significantly different because the value in the sig (2 tailed) row 0.01 and 0.03 are less than 0.05. This implies that, those farmers who were aware of the fertilizer subsidy program had higher crop yield than those who were unaware of the fertilizer subsidy program. Manuscript profile
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      173 - Transformation in Smallholder Agriculture through Intensification in Ethiopia: Determinants and Implications
      Habtamu Yesigat
      It is a challenge for a farmer with limited resources to decide on the production of commodities and investment in the farm. Transformation of smallholder subsistence agriculture, to market oriented value addition based agriculture is vital for poverty reduction in Ethi More
      It is a challenge for a farmer with limited resources to decide on the production of commodities and investment in the farm. Transformation of smallholder subsistence agriculture, to market oriented value addition based agriculture is vital for poverty reduction in Ethiopia. This study was initiated to explore the factors which contribute for the adoption of improved wheat and pepper varieties and intensification of the farm in Bure district, Ethiopia. The study took a random sample of 200 households using two stage sampling procedure with a probability proportional to size technique. Descriptive statistics and econometric statistical tools were used for analyzing the data and answering research questions. Different demographic, social, economic and access to institutional support service variables which are theoretically supported to influence the adoption and use of improved technologies and intensification of the farm were used for the logit and multiple linear regression model respectively. Resource endowments of the farm household, institutional factors and socio-economic factors are found to be vital in the decision making for intensification and adoption of improved varieties. It is found that different institutional support services in the rural economy have had significant role to enhance the uptake of technologies and intensification of smallholder agriculture. [H. Yesigat. Transformation in smallholder agriculture through intensification in Ethiopia: determinants and implications. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2012; 2(3):123-128]. Manuscript profile
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      174 - Willingness and Capacity to Pay for Extension Services by Poultry Farmers in Nasarawa State, Nigeria
      Hussaini Yusuf Ibrahim Gloria Okoi Dennis Ernest Ogezi
      The study determined the willingness and capacity of poultry farmers to pay for extension services in Nasarawa State, Nigeria. At this research used a sample size of 120 poultry farmers. Simple descriptive statistics, Kuppuswamy scale and Logit regression model were use More
      The study determined the willingness and capacity of poultry farmers to pay for extension services in Nasarawa State, Nigeria. At this research used a sample size of 120 poultry farmers. Simple descriptive statistics, Kuppuswamy scale and Logit regression model were used data analysis. The results showed that majority of the poultry farmers (87.5%) indicated their willingness to pay for extension services. In addition, the respondents had preferences for extension services on disease control and vaccination of poultry birds. Majority of the respondents (54.2%) in the study area had either a high capacity to pay for extension services while only 25% had a very high capacity to pay. Most of the respondents (56.7%) preferred to pay on individual extension services basis followed by a preference to pay on annual contract system of payment basis (21.7%). The Logit model, however, revealed that number of birds owned by a farmer and the number of extension services received by the farmer determined their willingness to pay for extension services. The study recommended that livestock extension delivery system in Nigeria should be restructured thorough agricultural extension transformation agenda to allow for private livestock extension outfits to take off in Nigeria. Manuscript profile
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      175 - Comparison Study of Application of ICT on Marketing of Agricultural Crops in Iran
      Mohamad Kamal Ebrahimi Filouri Azita Zand Mohammad Mohammadi
      This research through comparison study of application of ICT on marketing of agricultural crops in khozestan province, evaluate the role of such factors. The study is of applied type and the method being used is descriptive- correlational. Statistical population of this More
      This research through comparison study of application of ICT on marketing of agricultural crops in khozestan province, evaluate the role of such factors. The study is of applied type and the method being used is descriptive- correlational. Statistical population of this research is all agricultural experts of Khuzestan province and using Cochran’s formula , a sample size of 144 members was selected census method is used for the purpose of responding to the questionnaires. Researches show that there is significant difference between item of electronic readiness based on gender at 1% and item of market relationship, supply and demand, reducing production and sale costs based on gender at 5% and also there is significant difference between item of market relationship based on attending at computer education courses at level of 5%. There is significant difference between market influence based on education at the level of 1% and market relation based on education of respondents at the level of 5%. Manuscript profile
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      176 - Effect of the Physical Properties of Composite Packaging Materials on Keeping Quality of Smoked Catfish
      Olayemi, Foline Folorunsho Raji, Abdulganiy Olayinka Bamishaiye, Eunice Iyabo
      Six different composite packaging materials were tested with the trades’ practice of polythene bags in storing smoked catfish for a period of six months. The thickness of the packaging materials ranges from 0.23 to 046 mm with water and oil absorption rates of the More
      Six different composite packaging materials were tested with the trades’ practice of polythene bags in storing smoked catfish for a period of six months. The thickness of the packaging materials ranges from 0.23 to 046 mm with water and oil absorption rates of the packaging materials varies from 0.23 to 10.00 and 0.28 to 10.857 glcm2/mm respectively. The impact resistance weight also varies from 25 to 50 gm. It was observed that the physical properties of the packaging materials are related to the keeping quality of the stored catfish. The two packaging with better engineering properties offered better barrier functionality that gave better keeping quality for the catfish. [O, Foline Folorunsho et al. Effect of the Physical Properties of Composite Packaging Materials on Keeping Quality of Smoked Catfish. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(3):127-131]. Manuscript profile
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      177 - Socio-Economic Evaluation of Cassava Production by Women Farmers in Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State, Nigeria
      Okereke, Chukwuma Odii
      A research was conducted to evaluate cassava production by women farmers in Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State, Nigeria. One hundred and twenty smallholder female cassava farmers were selected using multi-stage sampling. Data were collected from the res More
      A research was conducted to evaluate cassava production by women farmers in Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State, Nigeria. One hundred and twenty smallholder female cassava farmers were selected using multi-stage sampling. Data were collected from the respondents using questionnaire and interview schedule. Then descriptive statistics (mean, frequency and percentage) were used in analyzing the data obtained. Result showed that 60% of the respondents were in the age range of 30-60 years. Seventy three percent of them had one form of formal education or another. Majority (78%) of them cultivated 0.5-2.5ha of land with cassava per annum indicating that they were mainly small-scale producers. The use of manual implements such as hoes and cutlasses was pronounced in cassava production by the women farmers. Furthermore, the dominant source of finance for cassava production was personal saving (82%) with only 8% of them obtaining micro-credit from banks. Then 94%, 10%, 3% and 1% of the farmers processed their cassava into garri, fufu, chips and starch respectively. Result also revealed a number of constraints militating against cassava production by the women farmers in the study area. These include among others; lack of finance (93%), high cost of fertilizer (88%) and sex discrimination (81%) in relation to access to land and decision making. Climate change was also found to be a significant factor constraining cassava production in the study area. It was suggested that the women farmers should constitute themselves into cooperative societies to enable them access loans from banks for cassava production. [O. C, Odii. Socio-Economic Evaluation of Cassava Production by Women Farmers in Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State, Nigeria. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2012; 2(3):129-136]. Manuscript profile
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      178 - The Influence of Socio-Economic Factors on Adoption of Fish Production Technologies among Community-Based Farmers in Cross River State, Nigeria
      Nwaobiala . Chioma Udo
      The poor performance of fishery subsector is most clearly evidenced by low adoption of fishery production technologies by farmers. The purpose of this research was analyzing influence of socio-economic factors on the adoption of fish production technologies by community More
      The poor performance of fishery subsector is most clearly evidenced by low adoption of fishery production technologies by farmers. The purpose of this research was analyzing influence of socio-economic factors on the adoption of fish production technologies by community-based farmers in Cross River State, Nigeria. A Multistage random sampling technique was used in selecting 60 community-based farmers. Data for the study were analyzed with descriptive statistics and probit regression model. The result showed that the farmers adopted catfish technology packages such as; pond construction, stocking rate, fertilization of pond, feeding, test cropping, fingerlings production and harvesting and processing. The probit regression estimates of the determinants of farmer’s adoption showed that coefficients of education, farm income and extension contacts were positive and significant at 1%. Policies aimed at encouraging farmers’ access to extension education and information on fish production technologies through extension were advocated for increased fish production and poverty alleviation. Manuscript profile
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      179 - Optimum Farm Plan for Food Security among Smallholder Farmers in Imo State, Nigeria
      Ohajianya, D.O Enwerem, V.A Offodile, P.O Onyeagocha, S.U.O Osuji, M.N Nwaiwu, I.U Henri-Ukoha, A Echetama, J.A
      The paper determined optimum farm plan for food security among smallholder farmers in Imo State, Nigeria. Data were collected with structured and validated questionnaire from 180 smallholder crops farmers in Imo State. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (me More
      The paper determined optimum farm plan for food security among smallholder farmers in Imo State, Nigeria. Data were collected with structured and validated questionnaire from 180 smallholder crops farmers in Imo State. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean, frequency distribution and percentages), budgetary analysis and linear programming model. Results show that the mean age of the farmers was 41 years, mean household size was 9 persons, mean farm size was 1.25 hectares mean farming experience was 19years and mean level of education was 8.3 years. The enterprises that contributed greatly to the smallholder farmers’ net return were food crops and cash crops with net returns per annum of N122666 and N116850 respectively. The profit lines as determined with the linear programming model were 6.8 and 4.9 for food crops and cash crops respectively, and this is the optimal feasible solution. [Ohajianya, D.O et al. Optimum Farm Plan for Food Security among Smallholder Farmers in Imo State, Nigeria. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(3):133-136]. Manuscript profile
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      180 - Assessment of Awareness and Adaptation to Climate Change among Rainfed Farmers in Um Alqora Locality, Gezira State, Sudan
      Ahmed M. Abdel Rahman Mohamed E. Hamid
      Climate change represents the major challenge to Sudan agricultural production, economics and food security. Changes in temperature, rainfalls, water availability, increased outbreak of pest and diseases, land degradation, soil erosion, shrinking of grazing and cultivat More
      Climate change represents the major challenge to Sudan agricultural production, economics and food security. Changes in temperature, rainfalls, water availability, increased outbreak of pest and diseases, land degradation, soil erosion, shrinking of grazing and cultivate areas, ongoing desertification and the other aspects of climate change have direct significant impact on agricultural production, productivity and cultivated crops of the country. Field survey was used to collect data from 100 rainfed farmers in Um Alqora Locality, Gezira State, Sudan by using the simple random sampling technique. The collected data were statistically analyzed and interpreted using percentage, frequency distribution and chi-square test. The results showed low percentage of agricultural extension contribution to awareness and adaptation to climate change among rainfed farmers in Um Alqora Locality, Gezira State, Sudan .It can be concluded that the contribution of agricultural extension was very weak in providing farmers with information, knowledge and skills on climate change and adaptation technologies in the Gezira State, Sudan which contributed to this incorrect situation. Thus, agricultural extension officers should be trained in all aspects of climate change and adaptation technologies, agricultural extension should build good linkages with rainfed farmers in the State, and considerable attention should be paid to the agricultural extension programmes for rainfed farmers in the State. Manuscript profile
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      181 - Effectiveness of Cassava Women Processors in Value Addition Technologies in Abia State, Nigeria
      K. M Okoroafor C. U Nwaobiala
      This study analyzed the effectiveness of cassava women processors in value addition technologies in Abia State, Nigeria. Purposive and simple random sampling techniques were used to select ninety (90) women. Data for the study were collected through a structured questio More
      This study analyzed the effectiveness of cassava women processors in value addition technologies in Abia State, Nigeria. Purposive and simple random sampling techniques were used to select ninety (90) women. Data for the study were collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed with descriptive statistics such as: frequency, mean scores and percentages and inferential statistics (Tobit regression analysis). The socio-economic characteristics of the women revealed that a 63.33% of the women were married, with mean age of 49.5 years, mean processing experience of 4.5 years and mean annual processing N226,500 (4,190.25 USD). The result also revealed that the processors effectively utilized ( =2.65) cassava value added technologies in the study area. The Tobit regression estimates of the determinants of effectiveness of women in cassava value addition indicate that coefficients for processing experience, level of education and access to credit were positive and significant at 1%, 5% and 5% levels of probability respectively, while coefficients for marital status and age were negative and significant at different levels of probability. The study therefore recommends sustainability in training and re-training of women in cassava value addition technologies, group formation and access to credit by women in order to promote effectiveness in cassava value addition technologies in the study area. Manuscript profile
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      182 - Farmers Perception about gains from Integrated Pest Management Farmer Field School
      Pawan Singh Bhandari
      The study was conducted among the two farmer groups in Bhaktapur and Kavre districts of Nepal. The main objective of the study is to evaluate the differences in belief, attitude and practices felt by the farmers after participation in the IPM FFS. The study has been bas More
      The study was conducted among the two farmer groups in Bhaktapur and Kavre districts of Nepal. The main objective of the study is to evaluate the differences in belief, attitude and practices felt by the farmers after participation in the IPM FFS. The study has been based on data collected through personal interview with the farmers, focus group discussion, personal observation in the farmers field, discussions with the leader farmers, agro-vet owners, farmer facilitators of the FFS and also on secondary data collected from related publications of various organizations. The study has revealed that FFS is being an effective tool in increasing IPM knowledge and techniques of ecological pest management among the farmers. Integrated Pest Management through Farmer Field approach has not only been a means to sustainable management of pests thereby ensuring sustainable yield of crops but also the IPM based crop management has positive effect on household food security, income and empowerment of farmers. This justifies the potential of IPM FFS as an effective mechanism for increasing the knowledge and techniques of sustainable pest management vis-à-vis being a driving force for socio-economic changes in the lives and livelihoods of the smallholder farming communities. [Pawan Singh Bhandari. Farmers Perception about gains from Integrated Pest Management Farmer Field School. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2012; 2(3):137-142]. Manuscript profile
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      183 - Determinants of Box Hive Promotion and Financial Benefits in Selected District Of Ethiopia
      Workneh Abebe Ranjan S. Karippai Ranjitha Puskur
      Though beekeeping is a common farming enterprise and income generating activity in Atsbi Wemberta district, and promotional efforts have been made to improve it, no systematic study has been undertaken to evaluate the promotional efforts and people’s response to i More
      Though beekeeping is a common farming enterprise and income generating activity in Atsbi Wemberta district, and promotional efforts have been made to improve it, no systematic study has been undertaken to evaluate the promotional efforts and people’s response to it. The objectives of this study were to identify determinants of improved box hive adoption by the beekeepers; and to analyze financial benefits from adopting improved box hive technology. It was found that credit, knowledge, education level of household head, perception and visits to demonstrations positively and significantly influenced adoption of box hive. Hence, Linking honey producers to stable and reliable markets and following a participatory value chain based approach; promoting private entrepreneurs to provide additional services for value addition; promoting farmer-to-farmer knowledge sharing; and encouraging farmer groups create a learning environment are some initiatives that could go a long way in the sustainable development of this important economic sub-sector. [Workneh Abebe et al. Determinants of Box Hive Promotion and Financial Benefits in Selected District Of Ethiopia. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(3):137-144]. Manuscript profile
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      184 - An Assessment of Internet Uses, Practices, and Barriers for Professional Development by Agricultural Teachers in Kermanshah Province, Iran
      Behrooz Rasekhi
      Internet has been perhaps the most outstanding innovation in the field of communication in the history of mankind. The main purpose of this study was to explore the role of Internet in the professional development of teachers working in agricultural schools in Kermansha More
      Internet has been perhaps the most outstanding innovation in the field of communication in the history of mankind. The main purpose of this study was to explore the role of Internet in the professional development of teachers working in agricultural schools in Kermanshah Province (N=35). Census survey was used due to the small size of the statistical population. A questionnaire was developed based on literature and was administered to 35 agricultural teachers in Kermanshah agricultural schools. Results showed that the majority of teachers use Internet to search scholarly articles and acquire new information, to develop their professional interest. It was found that agricultural teachers have not fully utilized the Internet because of barriers related to time factor, accessibility, and facilities. Respondents had positive attitude to Internet uses and abilities. The findings also showed a positive and significant relationship between teaching experience and professional development of teachers. There was a significant and positive relationship between the level of education and professional development of teachers. Manuscript profile
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      185 - Constraints to Increasing Agricultural Production and Productivity among Women Farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa: Implications for Agricultural Transformation Agenda
      Mary O. Agada Evangeline N. Ajani
      Agriculture is an important engine of growth and poverty reduction in much of Africa, Nigeria inclusive. But the sector is underperforming in part because women, who are often crucial resource in agriculture and rural economy, face constraints that reduce their producti More
      Agriculture is an important engine of growth and poverty reduction in much of Africa, Nigeria inclusive. But the sector is underperforming in part because women, who are often crucial resource in agriculture and rural economy, face constraints that reduce their productivity. An understanding of these constraints is a prerequisite to devising policies to improve agricultural production and productivity in the region. The study was based on a desk review of available literature. Information was accessed mainly through web search and journals. Findings revealed that women farmers are responsible for 80% of food staple production in Africa and contribute about 80% of the farm labour. In Nigeria, about 60% of the food produced comes from the rural women who constitute 60-80% of the agricultural labour force. Women play key roles in production, processing and marketing of agricultural products in addition to their reproductive functions. However, women farmers face enormous challenges such as limited access to land, capital, credits, education, appropriate technologies, training and extension, membership of rural organizations, marketing services, labour saving devices and farm inputs. Furthermore, women are overburdened by lack of access to portable water for domestic use. The implications of these findings for Nigeria Agricultural Transformation Agenda include involving women farmers in the design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of ATA programmes, provision of productive resources and labour saving technologies, as well as ensuring women’s access to ready markets for sale of products. Manuscript profile
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      186 - Assessment of the Levels of Awareness and Use of Agricultural Insurance Scheme among the Rural Farmers in Kogi State, Nigeria
      Stephen Jimoh Ibitoye
      The study investigated the levels of awareness and use of agricultural insurance scheme in Kogi State of Nigeria. A total of 240 respondents from eight communities were selected through a multistage random sampling technique. Data collected through structured questionna More
      The study investigated the levels of awareness and use of agricultural insurance scheme in Kogi State of Nigeria. A total of 240 respondents from eight communities were selected through a multistage random sampling technique. Data collected through structured questionnaire were analyzed using descriptive statistic, percentages and sigma scoring model. The results revealed that farmers in the State are mostly males (95%) with low levels of education and an average farm size of 3.2 hectares. The study further revealed that majority of the farmers belong to low income group with about 55 percent earning less than N100,000.00 per annum. The sigma score of 5.04 for the level of awareness showed a high level of awareness of agricultural insurance scheme among the rural farmers in the state. However, the sigma score of 3.26 reported for the level of use revealed a low level of agricultural insurance usage in the area. The major sources of information of agricultural insurance scheme to the farmers were cooperative societies (66%) and extension agents (65%). The major problems preventing the usage of agricultural insurance by the farmers in the State were fear of failure to honour agreement (75%), high insurance premium (66%), inadequate financial resources (65%) and non-coverage of many crops (61%). The study then recommended among others, the prompt payment of benefits to farmers and expansion of the scope of the scheme to cover other major crops. [Stephen Jimoh Ibitoye. Assessment of the Levels of Awareness and Use of Agricultural Insurance Scheme among the Rural Farmers in Kogi State, Nigeria. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2012; 2(3):143-148]. Manuscript profile
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      187 - Optimum Farm Plan for Food Security among Smallholder Farmers in Imo State, Nigeria
      Ohajianya D. O Enwerem V. A Offodile P. O Onyeagocha S. U. O Osuji M. N Nwaiwu I. U Henri-Ukoha A Echetama J. A
      The paper determined optimum farm plan for food security among smallholder farmers in Imo State, Nigeria. Data were collected with structured and validated questionnaire from 180 smallholder crops farmers in Imo State. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (me More
      The paper determined optimum farm plan for food security among smallholder farmers in Imo State, Nigeria. Data were collected with structured and validated questionnaire from 180 smallholder crops farmers in Imo State. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean, frequency distribution and percentages), budgetary analysis and linear programming model. Results show that the mean age of the farmers was 41 years, mean household size was 9 persons, mean farm size was 1.25 hectares mean farming experience was 19years and mean level of education was 8.3 years. The enterprises that contributed greatly to the smallholder farmers’ net return were food crops and cash crops with net returns per annum of N122666 and N116850 respectively. The profit lines as determined with the linear programming model were 6.8 and 4.9 for food crops and cash crops respectively, and this is the optimal feasible solution. [Ohajianya, D. O et al. Optimum Farm Plan for Food Security among Smallholder Farmers in Imo State, Nigeria. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(4):145-148]. Manuscript profile
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      188 - Exploring the Roles of Agricultural Extension in Promoting Food Security in Kwazulu-Natal Province, South Africa
      Abdu-Raheem Kamal Adekunle
      Household food security remains a challenge in South Africa. The national government instituted the Integrated Food Security Strategy (IFSS) programme which identifies household agricultural production as an important element of improving household-level food security. More
      Household food security remains a challenge in South Africa. The national government instituted the Integrated Food Security Strategy (IFSS) programme which identifies household agricultural production as an important element of improving household-level food security. Agricultural extension is well positioned to help achieve this aim, but its current contribution is unknown. This study identified the roles of extension in household food security in KZN by investigating, primarily from the perspective of state service providers, the current activities of extension to enhance household food security, and the factors impacting on effective delivery of extension services with respect to household food security. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 46 respondents, comprising of various national and provincial-level food security and extension managers and extension practitioners, and also food security/extension officers from two NGOs, as well as farmers. The study found that extension engages primarily in technology transfer and supply of farming inputs like seeds and fertilizers to the farming households. Three sets of factors affecting extension‟s capacity to promote food security emerged: household/community-level factors, social factors and service delivery factors. In the light of this, the study suggests the need for both food security and extension objectives to be consolidated into an extension policy that will explicitly charge extension to enhance household food security through a capacity development approach, while also providing for the accountability of extension to farmers. Manuscript profile
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      189 - Leaching of heavy metal from native plants by chemical leachants
      Fatemeh Akbarpour Mohamad Akbarpour Majid Seyri
      Plant biomass harvested after heavy-metal phytoremediation must be considered as a hazardous waste that should be contained or treated appropriately before disposal or reuse. This study provides an evaluation of extractants for the removal of lead from Abutilon Theophra More
      Plant biomass harvested after heavy-metal phytoremediation must be considered as a hazardous waste that should be contained or treated appropriately before disposal or reuse. This study provides an evaluation of extractants for the removal of lead from Abutilon Theophrastus biomass. The research was carried out a leaching study to determine the lead-extraction efficiency of the different leachants (water, several aqueous ammonium salts, and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid solution as lead extractants). The result of this study showed that, lead concentrations measured in leached biomass and in leachates were significantly different among the various leachants. Also the extraction strength of the leachants followed the order ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid>ammonium citrate> water ammonium phosphate > ammonium acetate, to , achieving lead extraction efficiencies of 96%, 67%, 4.2%, 3.9% and 0.3%, respectively, in single-stage extractions. In this study, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid is the most frequently lead extractants. (Akbarpour, F et al. Leaching of heavy metal from native plants by chemical leachants. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(4):149-157). Manuscript profile
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      190 - Analyzing Applications and Problems of Blended Learning (BL) for Agricultural Students
      Reza Movahedi
      This study was an attempt to analyze the applications and problems of conducting blended learning (BL) in view point of the agricultural students from Bu-Ali Sina University. The study has employed a surveying methodology with interviewing and included a combination of More
      This study was an attempt to analyze the applications and problems of conducting blended learning (BL) in view point of the agricultural students from Bu-Ali Sina University. The study has employed a surveying methodology with interviewing and included a combination of descriptive and quantitative research methods. Statistical population of the study included 500 agricultural students from Bu-Ali Sina University in 2011 academic year. The factor analysis method was utilized in accordance with the KMO and Bartlett tests to assist in extracting the most important factors related to applications and problems of conducting blended learning. Findings of factor analysis indicated that blended learning applications fall into seven categories of components include: 1) attention to students' needs and individual differences, 2) flexibility in time and place, 3) active involvement and participation of the students in teaching and learning, 4) improvement the quality of education, 5) synchronization of using different educational contents and media, 6) access to up-to-date information and required contents, and 7) possibility of implementing different teaching strategies. The results showed also conducting the blended learning encountered 19 problems. The highest problems in rank were 1) lack of training course on blended learning, 2) lack of familiarity with multimedia teaching methods, 3) network disconnect problem, and 4) lack of students' knowledge toward blended learning. [Reza Movahedi. Analyzing Applications and Problems of Blended Learning (BL) for Agricultural Students. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2012; 2(3):149-155]. Manuscript profile
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      191 - Marketing Performance of Salad Vegetables: The Case of Cabbage Marketing in Abia State, Nigeria
      Osondu, C. K. Nwadike F. C Ijioma J. C. Udah S.C. Ugboaja C .I.
      This study analyzed the performance of cabbage marketing in Abia State, Nigeria. Specifically the study sought to: describe socio-economic characteristics of cabbage marketers; identify marketing channels of cabbage; determine marketing cost components of cabbage market More
      This study analyzed the performance of cabbage marketing in Abia State, Nigeria. Specifically the study sought to: describe socio-economic characteristics of cabbage marketers; identify marketing channels of cabbage; determine marketing cost components of cabbage marketers; determine marketing margins, market share and marketing efficiency of cabbage marketers; and determine socio-economic factors influencing income of cabbage marketers. Multi-stage random sampling technique was used to select 160 marketers. Data were collected with use of structured questionnaire. The data collected were analyzed descriptively using means, frequencies, percentages, pie chart and flow chart and inferentially using marketing margin analysis, marketing efficiency analysis and ordinary least square regression technique. The study showed that cabbage marketing is not efficient but very profitable. The wholesalers and retailers had: marketing margin of N82.9 and N41.1; market share of 37.41% and 15.43%; and marketing efficiency of 160.60% and 167.40% respectively. Determinants of wholesaler’s income were household size, marketing experience, rent on storage, product price and transport cost, while household size, education level, other variable cost, product price and transport cost significantly influenced the retailer’s income. The study recommended that cabbage farmers in northern Nigeria should be encouraged, adequately motivated and instructed by the government and extension agents to form marketing cooperatives. This would help them pool resources together and transport their produce to farther points of consumption in-order to increase their market share and realize higher profit. This would also help to reduce the excess profit made by the marketers and improve the marketing efficiency of cabbage. Manuscript profile
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      192 - Modeling the Effects of Entrepreneurship Atmosphere on the Tendency of Agricultural Students for Beginning Creative Businesses
      Roya Eshraqi Samani Alireza Poursaeed
      Entrepreneurship is the driving force behind the economy of any country. It is strongly believed that without entrepreneurial activities the process of agricultural development will not be achieved. This requires the proper transformation of capital and skill. The agric More
      Entrepreneurship is the driving force behind the economy of any country. It is strongly believed that without entrepreneurial activities the process of agricultural development will not be achieved. This requires the proper transformation of capital and skill. The agricultural students should possess creativity in order for them to be able to start new businesses. However with the support of the university reaching this goal is impossible. Hence the objective of this descriptive-correlative paper is to evaluate the entrepreneurial atmosphere created by the university as well as its effects on the tendency of agricultural students to start creative businesses. The statistical population of this research includes the agricultural students studying in Islamic Azad University, Ilam Branch (320 people), among which 169 ones were selected by using Bartlett table and random sampling method as the sample for the study. The research tool was a questionnaire. Its validation was confirmed by structural equation modeling and its stability by using Cronbach’s Alpha Coefficient (0.91). Based on the results the tendency of the students towards entrepreneurship is estimated as an average tendency. The results of modeling showed that the entrepreneurial supports of the university possess an indirect impact on the tendency of the students to start a new business via changing the attitude towards entrepreneurship and general skills. The results of the current study can have implications for the educational structure of agriculture. Hence we recommended some methods for creating a proper entrepreneurial atmosphere for paving the way of creating new businesses in this field. [Roya Eshraqi and Alireza Poursaeed. Modeling the Effects of Entrepreneurship Atmosphere on the Tendency of Agricultural Students for Beginning Creative Businesses. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology in Extension and Education Systems, 2012; 2(4):157-163]. Manuscript profile
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      193 - Daily Pan Evaporation Estimation Using Artificial Neural Network-based Models
      Karimi-Googhari, Sh
      Accurate estimation of evaporation is important for design, planning and operation of water systems. In arid zones where water resources are scarce, the estimation of this loss becomes more interesting in the planning and management of irrigation practices. This paper i More
      Accurate estimation of evaporation is important for design, planning and operation of water systems. In arid zones where water resources are scarce, the estimation of this loss becomes more interesting in the planning and management of irrigation practices. This paper investigates the ability of artificial neural networks (ANNs) technique to improve the accuracy of daily evaporation estimation. Four different ANNs model comprising various combinations of daily climatic variables, that is, air temperature, daily sunshine hours, wind speed, and relative humidity are developed to evaluate degree of effect of each mentioned variables on evaporation for two stations located in central part if I.R. of Iran. A comparison is made between the estimates provided by the ANNs model and the multiple linear regression models. Various statistic measures are used to evaluate the performance of the models. Based on the comparisons, it was revealed that the ANNs computing technique could be employed successfully in modeling of evaporation process from the available climatic data. The ANN also increased dramatically the accuracy of evaporation estimation compare to the multiple linear regression models. [SH, Karimi-Googhari. Daily Pan Evaporation Estimation Using Artificial Neural Network-based Models. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(4):159-163]. Manuscript profile
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      194 - The Relationship between Achievement Motivation and Job Efficiency of Agricultural Faculty Staff, Islamic Azad University, Shoushtar Branch
      Masoud Ahmadinejad Mahmoud Yaghoubidoost
      Te purpose of research was identifying the relationship between achievement motivation and efficiency of agricultural faculty staff, Islamic Azad University Shoushtar Branch. The method of research was a descriptive-correlative. The sample size was agricultural faculty More
      Te purpose of research was identifying the relationship between achievement motivation and efficiency of agricultural faculty staff, Islamic Azad University Shoushtar Branch. The method of research was a descriptive-correlative. The sample size was agricultural faculty staff (n=45). A five-point Likert-type scale was used as the instrument to gather data in order to measure the achievement motivation. A quantitative analysis using data gathered by the survey questionnaire and Likert scale was used. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS).Questionnaire reliability was estimated by calculating Cronbach’s alpha and it was appropriate for this study (Mean Cranach's alpha 0.82). Te result of research revealed that the correlation between achievement motivation, responsibility adoption, activity rate, goal oriented and efficiency of staff at the level of 0.05 was significant. Liner regression was used to predict changes in efficiency by different variables. Based on the results achievement motivation, activity rate, responsibility adoption and goal oriented may well explain for 33.8% changes (R2 = 0.338) in efficiency of staff. Manuscript profile
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      195 - Mobile Learning for Transforming Education and Improving Learning Outcomes on Agriculture in India
      Aditya . Singh S. R
      The teledensity in India is estimated at 74.50 per cent (January, 2014) with an increase in subscriber base each day. No other revolution in the mankind has transformed the communication scenario to the extent as done by the mobile technologies. India has the fastest gr More
      The teledensity in India is estimated at 74.50 per cent (January, 2014) with an increase in subscriber base each day. No other revolution in the mankind has transformed the communication scenario to the extent as done by the mobile technologies. India has the fastest growing telecom network in the world with its high population and development potential base. Education is at a critical juncture in India. It is vital for workforce development and economic prosperity, yet is in need of serious reform so as to provide all the skills needed for a 21st century economy. Widespread use of smart phones by students has provided multiple opportunities to benefit from the mobile technologies at hand in a virtual self-paced environment. Mobile learning represents way to address a number of educational problems. The use of mobile technologies in education is the missing link which if properly harnessed has the potential to revolutionize the educational scenario of the country. Mobile devices, used in conjunction with near universal 2G/3G wireless connectivity, are essential tools to improve learning for students. This paper deals with the use of mobile technologies in the educational sector which can be implemented easily by the policy makers and implementing agencies to transform education on the whole, to engage students in a fruitful manner for bringing desired changes in the educational outcomes in agricultural section. Manuscript profile
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      196 - Assessment of Youth Involvement in Agricultural Production: The Case of Sabon-Gari Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Nigeria
      Issa F. O. Obioma O. D. Sallau R.
      This study assessed of youth involvement in agricultural production in Sabon Gari Local Government Area. The data used for this study were collected using interview schedule administered to 112 respondents who were selected through multi-stage sampling procedure. Descri More
      This study assessed of youth involvement in agricultural production in Sabon Gari Local Government Area. The data used for this study were collected using interview schedule administered to 112 respondents who were selected through multi-stage sampling procedure. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentages and means were used to analyze the data. The result revealed that majority (95.5%) of the respondents were males; between 26–30 years of age (33.9%), had formal education (46.4%), married (66.0%); had household size of 1–5 (54.4%); had farm size of 1–2 ha for crops (57.2%), and had a hard size of 1-6 cattle (85.7%). Also, the study also revealed that 69.6% of the respondents were involved in crop production with about (1-5 tonnes) output of major grains. Furthermore, constraints limiting youth involvement in agricultural production were identified as inadequate capital (M=3.8); inadequate modern implements (M=3.7); difficulty in accessing loan (M=3.7); and inadequate extension services (M=3.6). The study recorded effective involvement of youth in agricultural production (79.4%). The study recommends that the youth should form themselves into functional cooperatives so that they can mobilize funds for their farming activities. Furthermore, more extension workers should be employed to enhance extension services delivery especially in fisheries in the study area. Manuscript profile
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      197 - The Role of Livestock Cooperatives in Improving Economic Status of Animal Raisers: A Case Study on Cattle Breeders, Hamedan, Iran
      Samira Jeyhooni Mohammad Karim Motamed Reza Movahedi Hadi Fathi
      The aim of this study was to investigate the role of livestock cooperatives in improving economic status of animal holders in Hamedan province. The study has used a surveying methodology. For gathering data a structured questionnaire was used and its reliability was cal More
      The aim of this study was to investigate the role of livestock cooperatives in improving economic status of animal holders in Hamedan province. The study has used a surveying methodology. For gathering data a structured questionnaire was used and its reliability was calculated by Cronbach's Alpha test and it was (α=0.80). The research samples consisted of 300 animal holders (beef cattle breeders) included 150 members of livestock cooperatives and 150 non-members. In order to data analysis both correlation coefficients and t test were used. Results showed that there was a negative relationship between the age and membership in the livestock co-ops, there was also a positive relationship between education level and membership. Results revealed a difference between two groups of animal holders in terms of red meat production. This shows that members of livestock co-ops had a higher meat production in comparison with the non-members. In addition, the members of livestock co-ops participated in more training courses and they had a higher mean on technical knowledge than non-members. [Samira Jeyhooni et al. The Role of Livestock Cooperatives in Improving Economic Status of Animal Raisers: A Case Study on Cattle Breeders, Hamedan, Iran. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(4):165-169]. Manuscript profile
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      198 - Educational, Social, Economical Barriers of Organic Agriculture Implementation
      Masoud Samian Karim Nadery Mahdei Heshmatolah Saadi Elham Ansari Masoud Asadi Yaser Mardani
      Nowadays, thousands tons of chemicals material are used to increase agricultural production that provides a risky situation for the communities. Recently, biological or organic agriculture is considered to get rid of such problems. But this style of agriculture is facin More
      Nowadays, thousands tons of chemicals material are used to increase agricultural production that provides a risky situation for the communities. Recently, biological or organic agriculture is considered to get rid of such problems. But this style of agriculture is facing with many difficulties and challenges. This study was performed in three phases by using Delphi method. In this regard, the statistical population of the study were 32 experts of Jihad Agricultural Organization of Kohkiluyeh Va Buyer Ahmad Province, Iran. The results show that, regarding economic barriers, lack of governmental support; regarding social - cultural barriers, lack of consumption culture of organic products and regarding the political and administrative barriers, lack of clear policies and legislation in the field of organic farming are the main obstacles. Weakness in the education system for the production and consumption of organic products is also among the highest priorities in educational barriers. Education and culturalization in the field organic agriculture and appointing a special organization for this purpose seems to be essential. [Masoud Samian et al. Educational, Social, Economical Barriers of Organic Agriculture Implementation. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology in Extension and Education Systems, 2012; 2(4):165-170]. Manuscript profile
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      199 - Employment Limitations and Constraints for Iranian University Graduates in Agricultural Majors
      Reza Movahedi Mahdi Mantashloo
      The present research aimed at identifying employment limitations and constraints facing the university graduates in agricultural majors, also finding the solutions to enhance opportunities and job potentials for the agricultural graduates. The study used qualitative res More
      The present research aimed at identifying employment limitations and constraints facing the university graduates in agricultural majors, also finding the solutions to enhance opportunities and job potentials for the agricultural graduates. The study used qualitative research methods. Qualitative data collection was done with the help of semi-structured interviews. Data were gathered from 30 employers working on both public and private agricultural related organizations of Iran. Poor practical agricultural competencies of the graduates, limitations of government and private sectors to employ the graduates, irrelevant of curriculum development to labor needs, and the lack of entrepreneurship and self-employment skills identified as the most important employment limitations for the agricultural graduates. Therefore, a supportive mechanism should be installed by government, private sector, bank, universities, legislators’ centers, and graduates’ organizations to improve present employment situation of agricultural graduates in Iran. [R, Movahedi and M, Mantashloo. Employment Limitations and Constraints for Iranian University Graduates in Agricultural Majors. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(4):171-176]. Manuscript profile
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      200 - Analyzing Knowledge Management of Experts and Managers in Agricultural College of Islamic Azad University, Shoushtar Branch
      Masoud Ahmadinejad
      The purpose of this study was analyzing perception of agricultural college experts and managers of Islamic Azad University Shoushtar Branch regarding development of knowledge management. Agricultural college experts and managers were considered as a statistical populati More
      The purpose of this study was analyzing perception of agricultural college experts and managers of Islamic Azad University Shoushtar Branch regarding development of knowledge management. Agricultural college experts and managers were considered as a statistical population (N=38). This research was conducted in June 2012 to April 2013. All individuals were investigated. After confirm the validity of the instrument by panel of experts, to determine the reliability was used Cronbach alpha coefficient. Cronbach alpha coefficient was obtained for all sections of the questionnaire over 0.81. Method of research was descriptive and correlative. Based on the results, the correlation between status of knowledge acquisition and absorption with knowledge management in 0.01 level, was significant. Also the correlation between organizational culture and perceptions of experts and managers in 0.05 level, was significant. The results also showed that organizational culture, leadership style and knowledge about IT can explain 74% of variance of perception of agricultural college experts and managers regarding the development of knowledge management. [Masoud Ahmadinejad. Analyzing Knowledge Management of Experts and Managers in Agricultural College of Islamic Azad University, Shoushtar Branch. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology in Extension and Education Systems, 2012; 2(4):171-174]. Manuscript profile
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      201 - Prospects of Selected Forest Fruits and Vegetables in Enugu North Agricultural Zone of Enugu State, Nigeria
      Eneje N.C. Onwubuya E.A. Mbah E.N
      The study examined prospects of selected forest fruits and vegetables in Enugu North Agricultural zone of Enugu State, Nigeria. Structured interview schedule and focus group discussion were used to collect data from a sample of one hundred and twenty (120) respondents. More
      The study examined prospects of selected forest fruits and vegetables in Enugu North Agricultural zone of Enugu State, Nigeria. Structured interview schedule and focus group discussion were used to collect data from a sample of one hundred and twenty (120) respondents. Data were analyzed using matrix rank ordering, percentage, mean scores and standard deviation. Results of the study identified about twenty forest fruits and vegetables that are of both economic and dietary importance to the respondents. The forest fruits and vegetables identified with their botanical and common names in order of importance include: Prosopis africana (okpeyi) (M = 2.96), Irvingia gabonensiss/wombolus (ogbono) (M = 2.79), Treculia africana (ukwa) (M = 2.76), Parkia spp (ugba) (M = 2.75). Pterocarpus spp (oha) (M = 2.55) and Pergularia spp. (utazi) (M = 2.55). Others include Xylopia aethiopica (uda) (M=2.50), Piper nigrum (uziza) (M = 2.40), Gnetum africanum (ukazi) (M = 2.38), Chrysophylium africanum (udara) (M = 2.34) Garcinia kola (akuilu) (M = 2.32), among others. These forest fruits and vegetables are very important to mankind considering the potentials economically, culturally nutritionally, medically and environmentally. Constraints to access and utilization were poor storage facilities (M=2.38), transportation problems (M=2.38), lack of modern processing technology (M=2.38), insect pests and diseases (M=2.36), deforestation and land degradation (M= 2.35), destruction of forests by fire resulting as a result of bush burning (M= 2.30), poor yield (M=2.19), deterioration/perishability (wastages) (M=2.18), among others. The study recommends that efforts are highly needed by government at the local level to involve local community leaders in enforcing laws to reduce deforestation and bush burning in order to avoid destruction of forest products and exploitation of the valuable forest resources. It highlights the involvement of government in providing adequate rural infrastructure in order to encourage establishment of rural agro-processing industries by investors to prevent losses emanating from spoilage of the products, ensure food security, and create employment opportunities thus reducing poverty and vulnerability among rural folks. Manuscript profile
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      202 - The Relationship between Social Capital and Performance of Agricultural Extension Experts
      Maryam Alizadeh
      The purpose of research was identifying the relationship between social capital and performance of agricultural extension experts, Khouzestan province, Iran. The method of research was a descriptive-correlative. The sample size was agricultural extension experts (n=98). More
      The purpose of research was identifying the relationship between social capital and performance of agricultural extension experts, Khouzestan province, Iran. The method of research was a descriptive-correlative. The sample size was agricultural extension experts (n=98). A five-point Likert-type scale was used as instrument to gather data in order to measure the social capital. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS19). Questionnaire reliability was estimated by calculating Cronbach’s alpha and it was appropriate for this study (Cranach's alpha 0.93). Te result of research revealed that the correlation between organizational performance with social participation, social status and social trust was significant. Liner regression was used to predict changes in performance by different variables. Based on the results social participation, social status and social trust, educational level and job satisfaction may well explain for 48.9% changes (R2 = 0.489) in organizational performance of extension experts. Manuscript profile
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      203 - Farmers’ Knowledge and Perception regarding Privatization and Commercialization of Agricultural Extension Services in Delta State, Nigeria
      Ajieh Patrick Chuks
      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 f More
      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]. Manuscript profile
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      204 - Analysis of Technology Attributes Influencing Non - Adoption of Apiary Production Technologies: The Case IFAD Bee Farmers in Cross River State, Nigeria
      Nwaobiala . Chioma Udo
      Beekeeping as a technology package disseminated to target farmers in Nigeria seems to suffer setbacks ranging from negative perception of farmers about the technology to technical contents of the package. This study therefore analyzes the technol More
      Beekeeping as a technology package disseminated to target farmers in Nigeria seems to suffer setbacks ranging from negative perception of farmers about the technology to technical contents of the package. This study therefore analyzes the technology attributes that influence non adoption of apiary technology packages in Cross River State, Nigeria. Purposive and multistage random sampling techniques were used to select sixty (60) apiary farmers. Data for the study were collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed with descriptive statistics such as; frequency counts, mean scores and percentages and inferential statistics (bivariate probit analysis). The socio-economic characteristics of the farmers indicate that majority (93.33%) of the farmers were males, with mean age of 38.50 years, mean farming experience of 11.5 years, mean annual farm income of N175, 500 (973.97USD) and mean number of 9 hives. The result also revealed that the farmers adopted apiary technology packages such as; setting of hive ( =3.6) and baiting of bee hives ( =3.1) with mean adoption score of 2.5 and an adoption index of 32%. The result of bivariate probit regression estimates showed that coefficients for complexity of technology, adaptability of technology and technical competency influenced non adoption of apiary technologies by farmers in the study area. The study therefore recommends increase in number of extension contacts, cooperative formation and adequate campaign on beekeeping to facilitate adoption of apiary technologies in the study area. Manuscript profile
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      205 - Comparison of the Efficiency of Traditional and Industrial Milk Production Units in Khuzestan Province
      M. A. Sabaghi H. Badavi A. R. Ommani
      One of the most important measures, in order to increase animal products and reduce imports, is the industrialization of animal husbandry units, specially the dairy cattle. The condition of milk production would be improved by this industrialization, which is in the dir More
      One of the most important measures, in order to increase animal products and reduce imports, is the industrialization of animal husbandry units, specially the dairy cattle. The condition of milk production would be improved by this industrialization, which is in the direction of increasing the efficiency of milk production units. The purpose of this study is calculate , the efficiency of the traditional and industrial milk production units of Khuzestan province in 2011. The method of research was causal comparative. Data envelope analysis, in both forms of constant and variable return to scale, was used to calculate the types of efficiency. The needed information of industrial and traditional cattle houses was gained using capitation and random sampling from 384 production units, respectively. According to the results, the rate of total efficiency among the milk producers of traditional and industrial milk production units of Khuzestan is significantly different. In addition, the size of cattle house, manger`s level of education and experience, having a secondary job, animal`s race, and the production method are factors affecting the efficiency of units. [M. A Sabaghi et al. Daily Comparison of the efficiency of traditional and industrial milk production units in Khuzestan province. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(4):177-183]. Manuscript profile
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      206 - Analyzing Perception and Technical Knowledge of Wheat Farmers Regarding Organic Farming Products
      Azadeh N. Noorivandi
      The purpose of this research was to analyzing the perception and technical knowledge of wheat farmers in shoushtar township, Khouzestan province, Iran regarding organic farming products. The research method employed was correlative-descriptive. The population consisted More
      The purpose of this research was to analyzing the perception and technical knowledge of wheat farmers in shoushtar township, Khouzestan province, Iran regarding organic farming products. The research method employed was correlative-descriptive. The population consisted of wheat farmers in Shoushtar township Khuzestan Province of Iran. A random sample of wheat farmers (n = 163) was selected. The questionnaire was developed to collect data. Content and face validity were established by a panel of experts. Questionnaire reliability was estimated by calculating Cronbach,’s alpha. Reliability of the overall instrument was estimated at 0.84. Data collected were analyzed using the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS). Appropriate statistical procedures for description (frequencies, percent, means, and standard deviations) were used. Based on the results, 89.56% of respondents had moderate to very high level of perception and 44.79 of farmers had moderate to very high level technical knowledge. Liner regression was used to predict changes in perception and technical knowledge of wheat farmers. Participation in extension courses, rate of using communication channels, level of education, income, social participation, social status, job satisfaction may well explain for 64.9% changes (R2 = 0.649) in perception and technical knowledge of wheat farmers regarding organic farming products. [Azadeh N. Noorivandi. Analyzing Perception and Technical Knowledge of Wheat Farmers Regarding Organic Farming Products. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology in Extension and Education Systems, 2012; 2(4):181-186]. Manuscript profile
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      207 - Influence of Socioeconomic Characteristics on Purposes for which Mobile Phone was used by Small Scale Farmers in the Gezira State, Sudan
      Ahmed M. Abdel Rahman Isam O. Fadol
      The objective of this study was to assess the influence of some socioeconomic characteristics on purposes for which mobile phone was used by small scale farmers in the Gezira State, Sudan. The total number of small- scale farmers in the State for 2013-2014 growing seaso More
      The objective of this study was to assess the influence of some socioeconomic characteristics on purposes for which mobile phone was used by small scale farmers in the Gezira State, Sudan. The total number of small- scale farmers in the State for 2013-2014 growing season was estimated to be 5000. Ten percent of the population was used using the simple random sampling technique. The collected data were statistically analyzed and interpreted using percentage, frequency distribution and chi-square test. The results showed significant association between the age, education level and farm size of small scale farmers and their purposes for which mobile phone was used. It can be concluded that the relatively high cost of buying and use of mobile phones can negatively influence the frequency of contacts of small scale farmers particularly their use of mobile phones for agriculture services needed. In addition, the results of this study can help in improving the mobile telephone services which in turn may increase the success of agricultural development programmes in the State and the rest of the country. Thus, more efforts should be paid by mobile telephone service companies of Sudan to expand their services to provide services for all aspects of agricultural activities in the State and use more advanced technology in operating mobile telephone networks in order to reduce cost of buying and using mobile phones particularly for small scale farmers in the Gezira State and the rest of the country. Manuscript profile
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      208 - Gender Analysis of Energy Use for Rice Production in North Central, Nigeria
      H. Y. Ibrahim U. Shuaibu E. Ogezi
      The study examined gender analysis of energy use for Rice production in north central Nigeria using a sample of 60 Rice farmers. An analysis of gender relations provides the information on the different conditions men and women face, and the different effects that polic More
      The study examined gender analysis of energy use for Rice production in north central Nigeria using a sample of 60 Rice farmers. An analysis of gender relations provides the information on the different conditions men and women face, and the different effects that policies and programs may have on them. Simple descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. Energy efficiency and energy productivity for Rice production were calculated on per hectare basis using equations from literature. The result revealed that male respondents used 1533.21MJ, 41.55MJ, 1695.79MJ, 4569.6MJ, 616.9MJ, 2439.78MJ and 570.57MJ energy equivalents for seed, labour, fertilizer, herbicide, insecticide, diesel and machine inputs respectively and obtained an energy equivalent of 33539.52MJ per ha. Female respondents on the other hand used 1458.24MJ, 74.48MJ, 1244.21MJ, 7854MJ, 338.3MJ, 1556.97MJ and 609.44MJ of energy for the same inputs, in that respect, and obtained an average energy equivalent of 31087.56MJ per ha. Labour and machinery were the most productive energy inputs for the male respondents while labour and insecticide were the most productive inputs for female respondents. Furthermore, men were more efficient in their use of energy (2.9) but the women provided higher per capita specific energy (6.21MJkg-1) for Rice production process in the study area. The study recommended that government should ensure that adequate supplies and distribution of inputs such as fertilizers, insecticides and herbicides should be done with gender considerations. Manuscript profile
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      209 - The Influence of Socio-Economic Variables of Farmers on their Choice of Cassava Varieties in Kogi State, Nigeria.
      S. J. Ibitoye
      This study examined the influence of socioeconomic variables of farmers on their choice of cassava varieties in Kogi State of Nigeria. A total of 360 cassava farmers were selected through multi-stage random sampling procedure. Data collected through structured questionn More
      This study examined the influence of socioeconomic variables of farmers on their choice of cassava varieties in Kogi State of Nigeria. A total of 360 cassava farmers were selected through multi-stage random sampling procedure. Data collected through structured questionnaire were analyzed using descriptive statistics, customer-buying behavioral model and dynamic programming model. The results showed that TMS cassava variety (variety A) is more popular among the college-graduate farmers, farm experience of above 20years, farm size of 3–5hectares and farm income of N50,000-100,000. Similarly, the educational status of farmers, farm size, farming experience and farm income also influenced the choice NS variety (variety B) and local variety (variety C). The small scale farmers, illiterates and farmers with small farm income dominated the use of local variety. The study then recommends special credit scheme for small scale farmers and education of illiterate farmers on the advantages of using improved cassava variety. [S. J. Ibitoye. The Influence of Socio-Economic Variables of Farmers on their Choice of Cassava Varieties in Kogi State, Nigeria. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(4):185-193]. Manuscript profile
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      210 - Identify the Barriers to the Application of Precision Agriculture in Khouzestan Province, Iran
      Atefeh Yazdanifar
      The purpose of this study is to identify the barriers of application of precision farming in the view of agricultural researchers in Khouzestan province. The research method was survey. Agricultural researchers in Khouzestan province considered as statistical population More
      The purpose of this study is to identify the barriers of application of precision farming in the view of agricultural researchers in Khouzestan province. The research method was survey. Agricultural researchers in Khouzestan province considered as statistical population (N=136). All researchers considered as sample size by census method. After designing and validating the questionnaire, the questionnaire was pre-tested among 30 people and Cronbach alpha 0.753 was determined. The main tool was a questionnaire. In this study, after the collection and classification of data, data analysis and according to the type of research in two stages using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were taken. All data processing and statistical analysis was performed using the software SPSS 19. For analysis data, correlative coefficients and factor analysis were used. The results of the factor analysis indicate that lack of educational activity and managerial practices, lack of knowledge and information, lack of technical infrastructure, lack of support services, non-compliance with the conditions of farmers are five factors that explains about 57.65% of the variance barriers to the application of precision agriculture. Manuscript profile
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      211 - Analysis Mechanization Skill of Wheat Farmers in Khoramabad Township, Iran
      Namdar Sayadi
      The purpose of this study was analyzing the skill of Khoram Abad township wheat farmers regarding mechanization. This research was applied research and, based on methodology, was descriptive and correlative. Wheat farmers of Khoram Abad township, (N=18597) were consider More
      The purpose of this study was analyzing the skill of Khoram Abad township wheat farmers regarding mechanization. This research was applied research and, based on methodology, was descriptive and correlative. Wheat farmers of Khoram Abad township, (N=18597) were considered as statistical population. Based on Krejcie and Morgan table, 377 ones were selected as sample. In this study, cluster random sampling was selected and, after confirming the validity of the study tool by expert panel, alpha Cronbach coefficient was used to determine the reliability of the study tool, and the resulted coefficients for all parts of the questionnaire was calculated upper than 0.7. Based on the results, level of skill regarding mechanization was determined to be average. In addition, stepwise regression indicated that social participation, level of education, participation in extension and educational classes, number of parts, and level of attitude, interactively explained %48 ( R2=0.48) of changes in dependent variable. [Namdar Sayadi. Analysis Mechanization Skill of Wheat Farmers in Khoram Abad Township, Iran. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology in Extension and Education Systems, 2012; 2(4):187-190]. Manuscript profile
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      212 - Investigating the Relationship between University Education and Agricultural Students' Entrepreneurial Spirit
      Reza Movahedi Samadollah Ghanbari
      The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between university education and agricultural students' entrepreneurial spirit. To do this study, 150 samples were selected by using stratified random sampling methods among senior students both on graduate More
      The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between university education and agricultural students' entrepreneurial spirit. To do this study, 150 samples were selected by using stratified random sampling methods among senior students both on graduated and undergraduates levels in Bu-Ali Sina University. Data collection tool was a researcher made questionnaire which its validity was verified by a group of experts and professors. The reliability of the questions was tested during a pre-test process using a Cronbach's alpha test and it was between 0.75 and 0.93. Descriptive results showed that entrepreneurial spirit of the students was between moderate to high and among entrepreneurial spirit indicators the amount of self-confidence was highest but risk taking was the lowest. The results of Pearson test revealed that university education at each three level of knowledge and skill, social-communicational, and individual had a significant relationship with entrepreneurial spirit of the agricultural students. Manuscript profile
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      213 - Attitude of Wheat Farmers in Dezful Township Regarding Extension of Waste Reduction in Production Process
      Mahdi Attar Roshan
      This study is aimed at evaluating and measuring the factors affecting the Dezful wheat farmers` attitude toward the extension of wheat waste reduction. The method of research was correlative- descriptive. The population of this study is all farmers cultivated wheat in D More
      This study is aimed at evaluating and measuring the factors affecting the Dezful wheat farmers` attitude toward the extension of wheat waste reduction. The method of research was correlative- descriptive. The population of this study is all farmers cultivated wheat in Dezful from 2011 to 2012 (n=5291). The Number of samples size was 360 based on Krejcie and Morgan table. Panel of experts and Alpha Cornbach`s coefficient (0.76) were used to determine the validity and the reliability, respectively. Results of correlation showed that there is a positive and significant relationship between the variable of wheat farmers` attitude toward the extension of wheat waste reduction and rate of using communications channel, rate of participation in extension practices, level of the technical knowledge regarding waste management, and attitude toward productivity. Regression analysis results showed that the three variables include the rate of using communication channels, level of the technical knowledge, and participation in extension practices are the most important independent variables affecting the dependent variable and interactively explains 52 percent of the dependent variable`s variance. [Mahdi Attar Roshan. Attitude of Wheat Farmers in Dezful Township Regarding Extension of Waste Reduction in Production Process. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology in Extension and Education Systems, 2012; 2(4):191-194]. Manuscript profile
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      214 - Effectiveness of Technology Dissemination and Adoption among Farmers in Cross-River State, Nigeria
      Agbarevo, M.N. Benjamin Nwachukwu Ephraim. O
      This study compared farmers’ rating of extension effectiveness in technology dissemination to the level of adoption. In conducting the study, 180 farmers participating in extension programme in Cross-River State were randomly selected through multi-stage random sa More
      This study compared farmers’ rating of extension effectiveness in technology dissemination to the level of adoption. In conducting the study, 180 farmers participating in extension programme in Cross-River State were randomly selected through multi-stage random sampling technique. The data collected through a structured questionnaire were analyzed using the t-test of significance of difference between means to find out if farmers’ mean rating of extension effectiveness differed significantly from the mean adoption score. The study found no significant difference between farmers’ mean rating of extension effectiveness and the level of farmers’ adoption of introduced technologies at 95% confidence level. Hence, the null hypothesis that there is no significant difference between the farmers’ mean rating of extension effectiveness and their mean adoption score was accepted, while the alternative hypothesis was rejected. Manuscript profile
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      215 - Ethnobotanical Importance of Orans - As a Means Of Conserving Biodiversity
      M. S. Rathore N. S. Shekhawat
      Special sites or areas that have one or more attributes which distinguish them as somehow extraordinary, usually in a religious or spiritual sense, are called sacred places. They tend to evoke a feeling of some awesome, mysterious, and transcendent power that merits spe More
      Special sites or areas that have one or more attributes which distinguish them as somehow extraordinary, usually in a religious or spiritual sense, are called sacred places. They tend to evoke a feeling of some awesome, mysterious, and transcendent power that merits special reverence and treatment. Sacred groves are stands of trees or patches of forest that local communities conserve primarily because of their religious importance. These groves can also serve economic, medicinal, social, and cultural functions. Many sacred places in nature are associated with indigenous cultures. ‘Oran’, a sacred grove is a piece of land that is held by the Bishnoi community in honour and respect of a local deity. Here indigenous societies commonly use a wide variety of natural resources for their survival, economy, medicines, rituals, and other purposes. Historical, cultural, and spiritual aspects of the ecology of indigenous societies are grounded in the biodiversity, ecosystems, and landforms in their habitat. Thus, indigenes are most important to consider in exploring the relationships between sacred places, biodiversity, and conservation. Sacred groves that have a conservation role, whether actual or potential and intentional or coincidental, may need to be strengthened or augmented by economic incentives for local communities; legal, government, and/or international environmental protection schemes; and the establishment and maintenance of buffer zones. Recognition and protection of sacred places by scientific, environmental, governmental, and non-governmental organizations can simultaneously promote their conservation as well as that of the associated biodiversity and cultures. [M. S. Rathore and N. S. Shekhawat. Ethnobotanical Importance of Orans - As a Means of Conserving Biodiversity. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(4):195-200]. Manuscript profile
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      216 - Assessment of the Adoption Rate of Technologies among Fadama III Farmers in Adamawa State, Nigeria
      Umar Adamu Madu
      The study was conducted in Adamawa State, Nigeria. The major thrust of this study is to assess the adoption rate of technology in Fadama III project, Adamawa State, Nigeria. Fadama III is being implemented in 20 Local Government Areas (LGA) of Adamawa State. In its four More
      The study was conducted in Adamawa State, Nigeria. The major thrust of this study is to assess the adoption rate of technology in Fadama III project, Adamawa State, Nigeria. Fadama III is being implemented in 20 Local Government Areas (LGA) of Adamawa State. In its four years of operation, Fadama III project has realized significant impact on household access to new and proven technologies. The results showed adoption rate of technologies among beneficiaries has increased from 43.75% before the inception of the project to 96.255% after the project intervention. This indicates 50% increase against only 20% increase among the non-beneficiaries. This increase is far above the set target of 20% by Fadama III. Plant spacing (43.75%), improved breeds (40.63%) and improved seeds (38.13%) were the most widely adopted technology for both the beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries. Adoption rate of off-farm technologies (agricultural marketing and financial management) was also large. The adoption rate for the all the technologies was significant at p = 0.05, except for fish feed formulation, Cold storage, marketing and fish smoking. Yields among respondents have increased significantly due to adoption of proven technologies. The increase was higher among crop farmers (59.38%) followed by livestock farmers (48.75%). The increase in yields across all the enterprises has exceeded the set target of 20% increase except for fish production (11.25%) and agro-forestry (6.88%). The increase was more among the beneficiaries compared to non-beneficiaries. It can be concluded that project did not only influence the beneficiaries to adopt technologies for the purpose of improving their socio-economic status but it has also influenced the non-beneficiaries living in Fadama III communities to adopt technologies. The adoption rate for fisheries and agro-forestry technologies were low. This raises the need for sensitization on the importance of these technologies that are germane to their activities. It is also important for Fadama III to strengthen its support for ADP because the latter has limited funding to effectively provide its primary role of transfer of technology. Fadama III needs to harmonize existing approaches and need to use complementary systems rather than conflicting ones. [Umar, Adamu Madu. Assessment of the Adoption Rate of Technologies among Fadama III Farmers in Adamawa State, Nigeria. International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology in Extension and Education Systems, 2012; 2(4):195-201]. Manuscript profile
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      217 - Analyzing Farm Operations Cooperation Groups in Central Agricultural Zone of Delta State Nigeria
      Albert Ukaro Ofuoku
      T he purpose of this study was to examine farm operations cooperation groups in Central Agricultural Zone of Delta State, Nigeria. All the members of the six selected groups were used for the study. The data which were collected with the use of questionnaire and inte More
      T he purpose of this study was to examine farm operations cooperation groups in Central Agricultural Zone of Delta State, Nigeria. All the members of the six selected groups were used for the study. The data which were collected with the use of questionnaire and interview schedule were analyzed with the use of frequency counts, percentages and Tobit regression model. Most of the members were females and were also mostly married. Most of them were educated formally and had average household size of 5 persons and average farm size of 2.5 ha. They had an average farming experience of 13 years and most of them had no contact with extension agents. Household members emigrated from most (76.50%) households. They subscribed to these groups because of reduction of labour cost, timely execution and conclusion of farm operations, exchange of ideas and information, expansion of farm size and reduction of drudgery involved in farming. They were mostly satisfied with their various groups. They however had challenges ranging from irregular meeting attendance, inadequate access to extension service, too high membership strength to lateness to work. Inadequate membership strength was also a constraint to few of the groups. The farmers’ decision to subscribe to their various groups was informed or influenced by their marital status, level of education, household size, farm size, farming experience, extension visit contact with other farmers, and emigration of household members. It was recommended that extension agents should establish frequent contacts with the various groups and educate them on the importance of time and regular meeting attendance. The groups with bloated membership strength should be split into two groups while farmers need to be encouraged to subscribe to those groups with inadequate membership strength Manuscript profile
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      218 - Technical Knowledge and Information Gaps among Smallholder Farmers in the Production of Sugarcane in Kakamega County, Kenya
      Gilbert Odilla Abura Raphael Mwiti Gikunda Godffrey NyongesaNato
      The purpose of the study was to identify and document technical knowledge and information gaps that can inform development of appropriate training programs for cane farmers. The study employed a survey research design; involving 105 small scale farmers in selected from More
      The purpose of the study was to identify and document technical knowledge and information gaps that can inform development of appropriate training programs for cane farmers. The study employed a survey research design; involving 105 small scale farmers in selected from eight Sub-counties of Kakamega County. Data was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Pearson’s product moment correlation coefficient was used to test for significance of relationships between access to information regarding cane production and the productivity of the crop. The results show that there was a strong positive correlation (r =0.722) between the firm size and the acreage under cane crop. The technical knowledge and information gaps varied on the basis of growth stages of the cane crop; 60% of the small scale farmers did not prepare land at the right time, 48% of the farmers did not know how to propagate cane, 34% did not know the cane planting spacing, 48% cultivated uncertified materials due to lack of capital and poor access to the suitable materials as the reasons. Majority of the farmers (92%) confirmed that they knew how to gap, although a few (8%) didn’t, 48% did not remove tillers from their crop, the number of times that the crop was weeded ranged from once (2%) to 8 times (2%), and 64% of the farmers applied organic manure while 87% applied inorganic fertilizers. The results show that majority of the smallholder farmers were unable to apply the recommended crop management practices due to lack of capital and lack knowledge and skills. For instance 38% of the respondents were unable to practice crop rotation due to lack of practical skills. Access to agricultural information regarding cane crop agronomy was rated as low by most of the respondents (58%).There was a positive correlation between access to knowledge and productivity of cane crop with a coefficient of 0.283. The productivity of sugarcane crop in Kakamega County was low and this was contributed by among other factors; lack of capital and inadequate knowledge and skills regarding the crop’s agronomy. The study recommends that strategies should be designed to disseminate practices that require technical knowledge and skills. Manuscript profile
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      219 - The Effective Factors on the Adoption of Biological Control in Farmers' Field School by Rice Producers: The Case of Babol Township
      Hadi Moumeni Helali Amir Ahmadpour
      The main purpose of this research is to determine the effective factors in adopting biological control in the Farmer Field School approach. The method used in this research is descriptive-correlation and comparative, which has been done by survey. The rice farmers of th More
      The main purpose of this research is to determine the effective factors in adopting biological control in the Farmer Field School approach. The method used in this research is descriptive-correlation and comparative, which has been done by survey. The rice farmers of the township of Babol, Mazandaran, Iran were selected as the sample population of this research. The statistical sample of the research was 472 which included 92 rice farmers who attended the Farmer Field School and 380 people who did not participate in this course The designed questionnaire, after some modifications according to the corresponding experts’ opinion, was distributed between the two groups of rice farmers. At last, 433 collected questionnaires were analyzed by SPSS software (81 of the rice farmers who participated and 352 of them that did not participate). The findings show that the independent variables of rice farmer's attitude toward to biological control, use of information sources and knowledge of biological control determine 85.5% of the changes in the dependent variable of adopting biological control. [H, Moumeni Helali and A, Ahmadpour. The Effective Factors on the Adoption of Biological Control in Farmers' Field School by Rice Producers: The Case of Babol Township International Journal of Agricultural Science, Research and Technology, 2011; 1(4):201-206]. Manuscript profile
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      220 - Factors Influencing Adoption of Improved Cassava Processing Technologies by Rural Women in Enugu State, Nigeria
      Asadu A.N. Agwu A.E. Chah J.M. Enwelu I.A
      T he study examined factors influencing the adoption of improved cassava processing technologies. Interview schedule was used to collect information from 100 rural women involved in cassava processing. The average age of the respondents was 51 years and majority (77%) h More
      T he study examined factors influencing the adoption of improved cassava processing technologies. Interview schedule was used to collect information from 100 rural women involved in cassava processing. The average age of the respondents was 51 years and majority (77%) had formal education. The women’s main source of information on the improved cassava processing technologies was through the WIA (extension) agents. Years spent on formal education, household size and credit accessibility had significant and positive influence on adoption of the improved technologies. Age had a significant but negative influence while membership of social organization and number of extension contact had no significant influence on the adoption. The WIA (extension) agents should intensity their contact with the women. The women should be engaged in more training programmes to learn more about the improved cassava processing technologies in order to improve their livelihood. Manuscript profile
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      221 - Determinants of Entrepreneurial Orientation of Rural Women Small Business Owners: The Case of Gambella Region of Ethiopia
      Daniel Temesgen Getachew Wodajo
      Small business and entrepreneurship play critical role in stimulating economic activity, creating jobs, alleviating poverty and uplift living standards in Africa. It is widely accepted that the Micro and Small Enterprise (MSE) sectors have the potential to provide a liv More
      Small business and entrepreneurship play critical role in stimulating economic activity, creating jobs, alleviating poverty and uplift living standards in Africa. It is widely accepted that the Micro and Small Enterprise (MSE) sectors have the potential to provide a livelihood for a considerably large number of poor rural and urban women in Ethiopia. Women account for the larger share of the informal economy operators as well as those running micro and small enterprises in Ethiopia. The target population of the study is the women engaged in micro and small business in Gambella District in Western Ethiopia. Probability Proportional to Size sampling and simple random sampling technique was adopted to draw 100 individual sample business women from each village. The key motivating factor for women to be involved in a business is to be independent from depending so much on their spouse. From the result of the study, many women unaware of credit sources and other business support services. The overall implication of this study is that since women business operators appear to be playing a major role in the economy of the country, besides up-lifting the lives of their families, especial effort is needed to develop entrepreneurship. Hence, appropriate and sustained interventions targeted to the women enterprise operators need to be developed and implemented. The women business owners themselves will be expected to more specifically identify the area of critical support and be involved in the development of suitable program. Manuscript profile
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      222 - Farmers’ Perception and Adoption of Yam Minisett Technology in Anambra State
      Okoro B. O. Ajieh P. C.
      This study examined farmers’ perception and adoption of yam minisett technology. The study was carried out in Anambra State, Nigeria. A sample size of 120 yam farmers was used for the study. Data were collected using a structured and validated interview schedule. More
      This study examined farmers’ perception and adoption of yam minisett technology. The study was carried out in Anambra State, Nigeria. A sample size of 120 yam farmers was used for the study. Data were collected using a structured and validated interview schedule. Data generated for the study were summarized using descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage and mean scores while the Sigma method was used for calculating adoption scores to ascertain the level of adoption for the various yam minisett technology items. Results of the study revealed that there were more male yam farmers (82 percent) than females. The mean age of respondents was 45 years and the mean household size was 11 persons. Also, a mean farming experience of 12 years was found for the respondents. Results on perception of yam minisett technology reveal that respondents had favourable perception on four statements out of the thirteen statements used to investigate their perception. These were statements 5, 6, 11 and 12. The remaining 9 statements were not favourably perceived. They include statements 1-4; 7-10 and 13. There was a low adoption of 7 and an average adoption of 2 yam minisett technology items with an overall adoption score of 3.38, which indicates a low utilization of yam minisett technology by the yam farmers. The study recommends that more awareness should be created about the benefits of the technology and farmers should be trained on how to effectively use the technology. Manuscript profile
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      223 - Comparative Study of Interpersonal and Mass Media Usage among Rural Farmers in Kogi State
      Adejoh S. O. Adejo P.E. Edoka M.H.
      This study compared the use of interpersonal and mass media channels of communication among rural farmers in Kogi State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to describe the socio economic characteristics of the farmers, determine the influence of socioeconomic charact More
      This study compared the use of interpersonal and mass media channels of communication among rural farmers in Kogi State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to describe the socio economic characteristics of the farmers, determine the influence of socioeconomic characteristics on the usage of interpersonal and media channels, ascertain farmers’ level of awareness of interpersonal and media channels and compare farmers’ preference to interpersonal and media channels in the study area. Primary data was used for the study. Data used were collected from the four agricultural zones (A, B, C and D) in the State. A total of 240 respondents were used for the study. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics, logit regression analysis and z-test. Results of the findings showed that majority of the sampled respondents were literate male farmers in their active productive age, with an average household size of 7 members and a mean annual farm income of N 137,756. Number of years spent in school significantly influenced the use of interpersonal and mass media channels of communication at 10% level of significance. The findings further indicated that 94.6% and 77.9% of the respondents were aware of interpersonal and mass media channels of communication respectively. However, farmers in the area mostly preferred mass media channel to interpersonal channel of communication. The study recommends that rural radio booster stations and community rural television stations should be established to feature special programmes targeted at rural farmers in their local languages. To ensure regular availability and accessibility to extension agents, efforts should be made to employ more extension agents. Manuscript profile
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      224 - Challenges to Soil Erosion Control Measures among Farmers in Anambra State, Nigeria: Implications for Extension Policy
      Eze S.O Mbah E.N
      The study investigated challenges to soil erosion control measures among farmers in Anambra State, Nigeria. Purposive, multistage and random sampling techniques were employed in selecting a sample size of two hundred and forty (240) respondents. Structured interview sch More
      The study investigated challenges to soil erosion control measures among farmers in Anambra State, Nigeria. Purposive, multistage and random sampling techniques were employed in selecting a sample size of two hundred and forty (240) respondents. Structured interview schedule was used for data collection. Frequency counts, percentage, mean scores and factor analysis were used for data analysis. The findings show that majority (54.6%) of farmers were within the ages of 40-59 years, while majority (57.9%) had either FSLC or WASE/ SSCE/ GCE/ O/L qualifications and 67.5% had estimated annual income of N51, 000.00- N200,000.00. The farmers reported that the major soil erosion control measures used were strip cropping (M=4.9) and making of ridges across slopes (M =4.8). The study revealed that the respondents were highly constrained by poor group affinity, lack of government support and inadequate institutional support. The study highlighted participatory extension policy through improved group mobilization; improved budgetary allocation to the local government and institutional re-orientation and synergy between the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA), Research institutes and Universities with the ADP. In conclusion, success in soil erosion control under the Anambra State ADP and participatory extension policy among farmers groups for food security in Nigeria depend on the extent issues raised and challenges thereof highlighted can be addressed. Manuscript profile
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      225 - Information Communication Technologies in Agricultural Extension Delivery of Agricultural Transformation Agenda
      Nlerum F.E Onowu E.O.
      The study examined the role of information communication technologies in extension delivery of Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA) of Nigeria. The objectives were to: examine the agricultural extension delivery of ATA; identify ICTs relevant in agricultural extensi More
      The study examined the role of information communication technologies in extension delivery of Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA) of Nigeria. The objectives were to: examine the agricultural extension delivery of ATA; identify ICTs relevant in agricultural extension and application of ATA; examine roles of ICTs in extension of ATA and identify constraints to the use of ICTs in extension delivery. The study is a review research which was based on secondary data collected from Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, related literatures and internet. The study identified roles of ICTs in extension in ATA to include bridging the information gap for rural farmers with respect to innovative practices; farmers' access to government policies; farmers' access to information about input availability, credit facilities and weather vagaries. Some of the constraints to the use of ICTs were identified to include, erratic and fluctuating power supply, poor finance, lack of internet access in the rural areas and high cost of ICTs hard and soft wares. It was recommended that for more impact of the ICTs application in agriculture to be felt by extension agents and farmers alike, government and private sector investors should carryout massive human capacity development of agricultural extension officers in the various ICT tools which are applicable in agricultural sector, carry out awareness creation and sensitization of rural farmers of the opportunities they have in the use of ICTs, include the use of video-conferencing among stakeholders for meetings to reduce distant travels. Manuscript profile
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      226 - Effect of Women Led Self Help Group on Micro-Financing of Farms in Isuikwuato Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria
      Anyiro C.O Okonkwo K.N Udah S.C
      The study examined the effect of women led self help group on micro-financing of farms in Isuikwuato Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria. Purposive and multistage random sampling technique was employed for collecting data from one hundred and twenty (120) women More
      The study examined the effect of women led self help group on micro-financing of farms in Isuikwuato Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria. Purposive and multistage random sampling technique was employed for collecting data from one hundred and twenty (120) women farmers in women led self help group by using structured interview schedule. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, paired t-test and OLS regression analysis. The study revealed that the mean loan size accessed by the women farmers from self help group led micro financing of farm was N 99,325. The result of the study revealed that the mean (N99,325) volume of farm credit accessed from women self help group was greater than that (N60,033.33) obtained outside the women self help group led micro financing of farms. Also the result of the paired t-test for difference in net farm income of the women farmers before and after accessing micro loans from women self help groups showed that the women self help group impacted significantly on the mean annual farm income of its members. The result of the multiple regression analysis showed that the volume of fund accessed from women self help group led micro financing of farms was influenced by education, marital status, years of borrowing, farm size and annual contribution of the respondents. The R2 and F-ratio values were 0.5294 and 15.47 respectively. It was however, recommended that the women should join high performing women led self help group that would give them opportunities of making reasonable savings in a year. This will encourage thriftiness in their individual farm businesses and reduce their dependence on loans from outside Manuscript profile

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