Utilization of Information and Communication Technologies among Rural Women and Youth in Agriculture in Abia State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study assessed the utilization of information and communication technologies (ICTs) among rural women and youth in agriculture in Abia State, Nigeria. Data were collected using a structured interview schedule by the researcher and other research assistants. Percentage, standard deviation, mean scores, pie-chart, factor analysis, and regression were used for data analysis and result presentation. Using the multistage sampling procedure, a sample size of one hundred and twenty respondents was purposefully selected. The study's findings showed that GSM, radio, and television were the main ICTs that women and youth in the state used to obtain agricultural information from extension and relevant stakeholders. The regression analysis revealed a positive relationship between the number of times extension agents visited and their level of ICT use in agriculture. Findings indicated that a greater percentage (40%) of respondents were high users of ICTs in agriculture. Respondents cited low literacy, a lack of extension conviction, and training as major constraints to their use of ICTs. The implication is that policymakers and relevant stakeholders in agriculture should prioritize the development of training programs and interventions that improve the technology literacy and human capacity building of rural women and youth in the state through the use of existing agricultural extension programs on the effective use of ICTs in obtaining agricultural information for increased productivity, income, standard of living, and agricultural development in the state.