Entrepreneurship Skills needed by Youths for Entry into Oil Palm Production for Self-Employment and Job Creation in Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study focused on entrepreneurship skills needed by youths for entry into oil palm production in Delta State. Three research questions and two hypotheses were formulated and tested at 0.05 level of significance. The population of the study was one thousand five hundred(1500) youth farmers located in the three (3) senatorial districts in Delta State. The study adopted the use of descriptive survey method. Data was analyzed using frequency distribution, percentages, mean and standard deviation. The findings revealed that more males are involved in oil palm production than females. Also, that the combination of agricultural expertise, business skills, adaptability, and networking can empower youths in Delta State, Nigeria, to engage in oil palm production for self-employment, even while balancing other jobs. Findings also showed that combination of processing knowledge, operational skills, quality control, safety measures, resource management, and environmental considerations are needed. Findings from the research revealed that youth entrepreneurs in oil palm production have strong understanding of agronomy, including soil management, pest control and crop maintenance. The study recommended that Delta State youths can benefit from entrepreneurial education through formal programs and vocational trainings, focusing on oil palm production and self-employment. Special loan schemes and financial literacy training was also recommended.