Farmer Information Literacy and Agricultural Productivity: A Case of Rice Farmers in Kano State, Nigeria
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Date
2024-06
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Kenyatta University
Abstract
Farmers must locate the finest agricultural information sources to make informed farming choices. Due to time and expense, rice farmers struggle to discover convenient information sources despite many. So, this research examined access and utilization of agricultural information by rice farmers in Kano State, Nigeria. The study's specific objectives were to determine rice farmers' information needs in Kano State, Nigeria, their awareness of agricultural information sources, their use of them, and the significant relationships between farmer information literacy, productivity increase, and information needs. The research study targeted 6,340 and 634 were selected using Krejcie and Morgan (1970) proportional sampling. The research collected data by questionnaire. Pilot tests ensured the instruments measured the desired goals. Farmers' demographic profiles were descriptively analysed using frequencies and percentages and shown in tables and graphs. The research found that rice producers require knowledge to make choices and boost crop output and profitability. Rice growers need current meteorological data to plan planting, harvesting, irrigation, and pest and disease management. Most Kano State rice farmers were aware of radio, television, internet, library, and information centres, among other agricultural knowledge sources, according to the survey. The research found a substantial positive correlation between information awareness and agricultural production (r = 0.278, n =634, p<1268). The survey also revealed that most rice farmers had access to radio, television, agricultural extension agents, books, agricultural shows, newspapers, and magazines. Information and Communication Technologies were few, according to the report. The association between farmer information demands and agricultural information sources in the research region has a chi-square value of 23.57, higher than the tabulated 21.03 under 12 degrees of freedom highlighting the potential for variation in findings depending on the specific context or factors being examined. The research found that Kano State rice farmers need information literacy to increase output. Information literacy helps rice farmers in the area use new technology, make educated choices, and adopt best practises. The report proposes that Nigeria create and execute a comprehensive farmer information literacy programme in Kano State. This programme should teach rice farmers how to identify access, assess, and apply agricultural information to enhance farming practises.
Description
A Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Information Science), in the School of Pure and Applied Sciences of Kenyatta University June 2024
Supervisors:
1. Peter Wamae
2. Harriet Kamau