ANALYSIS OF TRAINING NEEDS OF EXTENSION AGENTS ON CLIMATE CHANGE ISSUES IN ZAMFARA AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT (ZADP) NIGERIA

Abstract

The study was designed to evaluate and identify the training needs of extension workers on climate change related issues in Zamfara Agriculture Development Project, Zamfara State of Nigeria. A total of 120 sample size was selected and divided into two zones and ADP headquarters namely: Gummi Zone-I (70), Kaura Namoda Zone-II (40) and headquarters (10). Face to face interview was conducted to get the accurate results. Data were analysed using frequencies, mean, percentages and descriptive methods. The research concluded that the extension agents performed six major tasks on weather forecasting on change in climate issues, record keeping, use of multimedia projector, establishing SPATs for monitoring impacts of climate change, use of ICT and Programme Planning. Awareness of respondents with regard to competencies needed by the extension workers on climate change revealed that 40 (33.3%) of the respondents reported measurement of speed of wind.  About 18 (15%) agreed to acquire knowledge on desertification issues. A total of 33 (27.5%) and 16 (13.3%) reported measurement of intensity of rainfall and sunshine, respectively. The lowest percentage 2.5% and 8.3% agreed to acquire knowledge on deforestation and internet competencies, respectively. It is recommended that Zamfara ADP extension staff must be given intensive training  on  the  use  of  ICT,  measurement  of  speed  of  wind,  intensity  on sunshine and data collection and analysis to help them in handling climate change related issues.