EFFECT OF TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT ON AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME EXTENSION WORKERS IN OGUN STATE, NIGERIA.

Abstract

The study examined the Effect of Training and Development on Agricultural Development programme Extension Workers in Ogun State, Nigeria. Proportionate sampling technique was employed in selecting the sample size of 98 respondents from a total population of 303 extension workers, structured questionnaire of five-point rating scale was used for data collection. Data obtained was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics such as mean, standard deviation and Pearson product monument correlation. Findings reveals that the mean age was 39.99 years, (57.1%) of the respondents were male, (78.6%) of the respondents were married, (52.0%) of the respondents were Bsc holders. The mean years of working experience was 10 years while mean monthly income was #94,381.63, majority (69.4%) of respondents perceived that there is increase in the knowledge and skills of the employee after training. Some of the constraints identified were improper health and safety measures in training venues (34.7%), Acquiring training from obsolete center (22.4%), inadequate skills by the trainer (21.4%). Furthermore, a positive and significant relationship existed between areas of training received by extension staff (r= 1, P=0.043) and job performance. The result concluded that extension staff have positive perception towards training, by involving them in a well-designed training and development programme, with training policy. Effective management and implementation of training and development programme is highly recommended to the management of Ogun State Agricultural Development Programme.