Perceived training needs of cassava farmers in Ovia north east local government area of Edo State. Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined training needs of cassava farmers in Ovia North-East Local Government Area, Edo State. A total of 80 randomly selected cassava farmers were the respondents for the study. Data were collected using interview schedule and analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Results showed that majority of the farmers (57.5%) were males, higher percentage of the respondents (63.8%) belongs to the age group 30 – 49years and 47.5 percent of the respondents were married. Majority of the respondents (60.0%) had both primary and secondary qualifications while 32.5 percent had no formal education. Findings further show that respondents attached great importance to the use of improved variety ( Χ=4.37), rapid multiplication of planting materials (Χ = 4.18) weeding (Χ =4.15) and storage of planting material (Χ =3.85). They also identified quality flour making (Χ = 4.72), rapid multiplication of planting materials ( Χ= 4.68), industrial utilization of cassava (Χ =4.53) identification of improved varieties (Χ = 4.42). as areas where training is highly required. There were significant association between respondents\' age, educational level and farm size and their training needs. It was therefore recommended that there is a need for organizing training for farmers in areas such as rapid multiplication of planting materials, quality cassava flour production and identification of improved cassava varieties.

Keywords: Assessment, training needs, cassava farmers.

Bowen Journal of Agriculture Vol. 5 (1&2) 2008: pp. 128-134