Paradigm shift in the agro-technology transfer system: Case study of Agricultural Development Programme in Enugu State, Nigeria (2001 to 2009)

Abstract

The study examined response of agricultural development programme (ADP) to changes in the operational environment. Forty eight purposively and 12 randomly selected extension workers were used. Data were collected by use of questionnaire and analysed using means, percentage, and one - way analysis of variance. There is no significant different in level of involvement and coverage of ADP organization in about 95% areas of service delivery to farmers over the years (2001 to 2009). Only respondents’ perception of involvement in arable/cash crops (M=2.8, 2.5, 2.6) showed a significant different (p ≤ 0.5), but in a declining pattern. ADP had strong linkages with national agriculture research institutes (M=3.2, 3.2, 3.1) agro-processing firms (M=3.5, 3.9, 4.3), and NGOs (M= 3.4, 3.3, 3.2) between 2001 and 2009. However, linkages with other institutions were relatively weak. Analysis of variance shows significant difference (p ≤ 0.05) in respondents’ perceived extent of involvement in training in ICTs, biotechnology, group dynamics and communication/human relation. Training efforts on building capacity in specific subject areas in these areas were at a very low ebb. Overall, ADP extension organisation has not substantially responded to the emerging service and training needs of the farmers and extension workers. Linkage attitude of the organization has improved but is limited to only few areas. The study therefore recommends that government should increase extension support, initiate linkage framework and policy to enhance the organization capability to make internal and external adjustment whether for service delivery, linkage, or training in response to changes in the environment. Key Words: Agricultural technology transfer, agricultural development programme, linkages, extension service.