Gender analysis of the use of information communication technologies in the agricultural development and extension program of the University of Nigeria Nsukka

Gender differences in the use of Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) exacerbate inequalities that affect farming communities. This study examined gender differences in the use of ICTs for agricultural development and extension outreach of UNN. The objectives include ascertaining the benefits, availability, competence, and challenges in the use of ICTs in extension outreach by facilitators, as well as gender differences in use, benefits, and factors that militate against the use of ICTs by participating farmers. A multistage sampling procedure was used to select 280 respondents for primary data collection using questionnaires and an interview schedule. Benefits of using ICTs include that the facilitators can learn new technologies. Facilitators were competent in using mobile phones and laptops, among other devices. Challenges faced in their use of ICTs in the program include a lack of funding and limited access to ICT resources. Men farmers use television (X2 = 12.85), radio, and the internet more than women. Women mostly used ICTs to improve their access to price information $\lpar {\bar{x} = 1.99} \rpar$(x¯=1.99) while men indicated that ICTs help to increase income $\lpar {\bar{x} = 1.90} \rpar$(x¯=1.90) and access to agricultural extension services. Less ownership of assets $\lpar {\bar{x} = 1.90} \rpar$(x¯=1.90), poverty, and lack of knowledge of the importance limited women in using ICTs compared to men. Hence, this study recommends gender-specific considerations in the provision of frequent ICT training and infrastructure.