Gender Sensitivity In Agricultural Extension Services In Imo State: Issues And Challenges

Abstract

Gender sensitivity in agricultural practices in general, and extension in particular, suggests that roles should not be ascribed to the females alone, or the males, specifically. In some instances, the males seem to be projected over and above their female counterparts. This is a set back to the progress of agric. practices in the country. Issues of gender inequity, which do not favour the Women In Agriculture program, include; problems of : inadequate mechanization technology for the women, limited access to land resource, decision-making power, education, agricultural inputs, technologies and credits. These have serious implication for extension services. Certain technologies extended to the Women In Agriculture (WIA) Programme, have been high-lighted as well as the WIA SPATS situation in Imo State. Strategies for meeting the challenging issues raised have been proffered. There is need to develop programmes, centered on women\'s needs and constraints, in accomplishing their tasks. It is necessary to raise awareness of gender issues as an integral part of a pragmatic research, extension and development work in agriculture, realizing the immense roles women play in agricultural development.

Global Approaches to Extension Practice Vol.1(1) 2005: 83-90