Analysis of Role Performance and Utilization of Training Opportunities by Subject Matter Specialists in Imo State and Anambra State Agricultural Development Programme

Abstract

The study comparatively analyzed the level of utilization of training opportunities and role performance by subject matter specialists (SMSs) in Imo state and Anambra state Agricultural Development Programme (ADP). All the 15 SMSs in Imo and 20 in Anambra state ADP as well as 35Block Extension supervisors (BESs) randomly selected from the two states, constituted the sample. Two sets of structured questionnaire were used for data collection. Data were analyzed using frequency distribution, mean and percentages as well as mean score. Results showed that monthlytechnology review meetings (MTRMs) are the most utilized training opportunity by SMSs in both states. Oversea training and study leave with pay are not available to SMSs. The roles of conducting on-farm verification trial and collecting and analyzing data from field meant for research have not been effectively performed by SMSs in the two states. Poor in-service training, mobility, irregular promotion and poor involvement of SMSs in programme planning were found to be serious problems constraining SMSs job performance. It was recommended, among others, that the two states ADP should make special allocation of fund for in-service training of SMSs as well as increase SMSs participation in programme planning.