An Assessment of the Engagement of Information and Communication Technologies in the Dissemination of Agricultural Information in Plateau State

Abstract

The study was an assessment of the engagement of information and communication technologies in the dissemination of agricultural information in Plateau State. It adopted the survey research design, using quota, purposive and systematic sampling techniques. Questionnaire was administered on 373 respondents alongside oral interview for the collection of primary data. Data collected were analyzed using simple percentages while Chi square test of independence was used to test the hypotheses. The study was anchored on the diffusion of innovations and supported by the uses and gratifications theory. Findings revealed that ICTs have been employed in farmers training at the centre and farmers are open to the new innovations. Further findings showed that ICTs have impacted positively on farmers’ knowledge and practice of agriculture. The study concludes that the use of information and communications technologies has improved agricultural productivity through effective agricultural communication for farmers and extension workers as well. The study therefore recommends among other things that, though the internet does not serve as the primary source of agricultural news stories for both farmers and extension workers, their training should incorporate instructions on how effectively to utilize information and communication technologies especially the internet in sourcing agricultural information