Utilization of Satellite Imaging and Information Communication Technology in Agricultural Information Dissemination in Nigeria

This study appraised the level of usage of satellite imaging and selected Information Communication Technology (ICT) tools by agricultural extension workers (EWs) in the North Central Zone of Nigeria. Specifically, information on usage of satellite imaging, personal skill ratings, and constraints faced by respondents in the usage of ICT equipment were gathered. Findings revealed that a majority of the respondents (97%) perceived themselves as incompetent in reading and interpreting satellite imaging for agricultural information dissemination. The study posited that government at various levels should assist in training EWs on digital compatibility.     

Principal Areas of Applying Information and Communication Technologies in the Agricultural Extension System of Iran

This study investigated areas for potential application of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in the agricultural extension system of Iran. Two hundred forty-one extension staff (out of 1,145) in the Ministry of Agriculture were selected and studied as a sample through a stratified random sampling technique. The findings revealed that six factors/components containing 32 variables determined about 68.91% of the variations in the areas of application. The six factors were Management of documentation and preparation of extension information (14.88% of variance), Planning and implementation of extension education programs (13.6%), Professional empowerment of extension agents (10.8%), Expansion of intra-organizational relationships (10.27%), Facilitation of organizational processes (9.7%), and Improving communication through e-mail services (9.64%).     

Promoting the Use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) for Agricultural Transformation in Sub-Saharan Africa: Implications for Policy

Information and communication technologies (ICTs) have the potential to reach many farmers with timely and accessible content. This article highlights the importance of ICTs in promoting agricultural transformation. It recommends the establishment of agricultural communication networks, which involve active participation of all stakeholders in agriculture and highlights the need for a participatory approach, the monitoring and evaluation of end users, and the integration of farmer knowledge and information needs into the content management system. Public institutions in agriculture should also be involved in developing a curriculum in ICTs for agricultural development and support ICT platforms to facilitate farmers’ access to quality agricultural information.