Training Requirements of Extension Workers in Banana and Plantain (Musa spp.) Technology Transfer in Southwestern Nigeria

Education and research contribute to agricultural development by facilitating constantly changing technology. To ensure technology driven development the training needs of extension workers involved in banana and plantain (Musa spp.) technology transfer need to be identified. We assessed the training requirements of extension workers involved in banana and plantain technology transfer in Southwestern Nigeria. Three predominantly banana/plantain-producing zones of Ogun, Ondo and Osun States Agricultural Development Programmes (ADPs) were selected. Of the 209 extension workers in these zones, 106 (50%) were randomly sampled. Data were collected using a pretested, structured interview schedule. Data were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, mean and Pearson Product Moment Correlation. Banana and plantain orchard site selection and preparation, harvesting techniques, orchard establishment and orchard management were the technology dissemination activities involving extension workers. These accounted for 75.5, 65.1, 62.3 and 62.3% of their involvement, respectively. Extension workers' technology dissemination was least in prenursery management accounting for only 23.6% of their involvement. The mean knowledge score of extension workers on banana and plantain technologies was 61.6%. Correlation analysis between knowledge and involvement of extension workers in banana and plantain technology transfer shows no significant relationship (r = 0.18, P>0.05). This implies that the current technology dissemination effort of the extension workers is not based on their knowledge of improved technologies. This calls for technology driven development of banana and plantain industry with adequate focus on training of extension workers with the aim of improving their knowledge and skill, especially in root system management.