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Perception of Ecotourism among Undergraduate Students of Agricultural Science in Tai Solarin University of Education and Olabisi Onabanjo University
Abstract
This study investigated the perception of ecotourism among undergraduate students of Agricultural Science of Tai Solarin University of Education and Olabisi Onabanjo University. The study followed a survey design. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire from a sample of 132 respondents. It was analysed using descriptive statistics and a t-test. Participation in ecotourism was found to be high (55.3%). Visitation, sightseeing and trekking were the modal ecotourism activities. Insecurity, low interest, high costs and lack of time were the main hindrances to participation in ecotourism. It was concluded that most (75%) of the respondents had a favourable disposition towards ecotourism in the study area. Significant difference (t= -4.162, p=0.000) existed in perception of ecotourism in the two universities. Intensification of ecotourism awareness, funding of ecotourism, inclusion of ecotourism in higher education curricula, ecotourism advocacy and programmes that will encourage students’ participation in ecotourism activities are recommended.