Effect of Smart Training on the Dissemination of Agricultural Innovations Among Extension Workers in Ondo State

Oluwafolakemi Ayo Olaniyan; Olawatoyin Olagun Ju; Oluwatoyin Bukola Chete

doi:10.59890/ijist.v4i4.314

Authors

Oluwafolakemi Ayo Olaniyan Adekunle Ajasin University
Olawatoyin Olagun Ju Adekunle Ajasin University
Oluwatoyin Bukola Chete Adekunle Ajasin University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59890/ijist.v4i4.314

Keywords:

Smart, Training. Information, Dissemination, Digital Tools.

Abstract

The study examined the effect of SMART training on the dissemination of agricultural innovations among extension workers in Ondo State. Four objectives guided the study. Data were collected using well-structured questionnaires and administered to extension workers. Data were analyzed using both descriptive (percentages, frequency counts, mean, standard deviation) and inferential statistics (Linear regression). Findings from the study revealed that extension workers in Ondo State were nearly gender-balanced (51.9% male, 48.1% female) and predominantly middle-aged (x̄= 49 years) with MSc as the highest educational attainment (61.1%). Most (88.9%) of the respondents were married and experienced (x̄ = 17 years), with moderate household size (mean = 8) and income (₦213,703) as serve as Village Extension Agents (79.6%). SMART training needs were highest for Remote Sensing (x̄ = 2.69) and Drone Technology (x̄= 2.50). Key constraints included funding, digital literacy, infrastructure, and cultural resistance. It was recommended that government and developmental agencies should allocate more financial resources to support SMART agricultural training programs, digital tools, and operational needs of extension workers. There should be deliberate investment in rural infrastructure, especially reliable electricity and internet connectivity, to enable the practical application of digital extension technologies.

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