Effect of Information Communication Technology (ICT) on agricultural information access among extension officers in North West Province South Africa

O.I Oladele

doi:10.17159/2413-3221/2015/v43n2a344

Abstract

This study determined the effect of Information Communication Technology (ICT) on agricultural information access among extension officers in North West Province South Africa. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 169 officers from which data were collected with structured and face validated questionnaire. Fourteen statements were perceived by officers as having an effect on improving information access. Significant determinants of the effect of ICT on information access were education (t= 2.61, p = 0.11); constraints to ICT tools (t= 2.60, p = .010), use of ICT tools (t = 4.67, p = .000) and e-readiness (t= -3.01, p =.003). Keywords: Information Communication Technology, information access, extension officers, agricultural information

Highlights

Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) are all technologies used for the widespread transfer and sharing of information
This study suggests that the working experience of extension officers in South Africa is similar to other extension officers anywhere else in the world
This study examined the effect of Information Communication Technology (ICT) on agricultural information access among extension officers in North West Province South Africa

Summary

Introduction

Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) are all technologies used for the widespread transfer and sharing of information. ICTs promote and distribute new and existing farming information and knowledge which is communicated within the agricultural sector since information is essential for facilitating agricultural and rural development and bringing about social and economic changes (Swanson & Rajalahti, 2010). Agriculture is the mainstay of most African countries and occupies a pivotal role in the development of the continent. It remains an important sector in the South African economy due to its central role in building a strong economy, reducing inequalities by increasing incomes and employment opportunities for the poor, while nurturing natural resources. Agriculture contributes 8% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and over 17% to employment in South Africa (Statistics South Africa, 2003)

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