ASSESSMENT OF TRAINING NEEDS OF L-PRES PARTICIPANTS IN KOGI STATE

Abstract

The study examined the training needs of L-PRES participants in Kogi state. the objectives of the study included to describe socio-economic characteristics of L-PRES participants, identify the training needs of participants, examine socio economic characteristic of participants that influence their interest for livestock training and Identify the constraints to livestock production among L-PRES participants. A total of 120 participants were sampled through multistage and random sampling techniques. Structured questionnaire was used to generate primary data. Obtained data was analyzed with descriptive and Logit regressions analysis. Results showed that participants were 50 years and below with a mean age of 43 years. 80% of the participants acquire formal education while 81% practice extensive method of animal production. The major training needs of farmers were Pests and Diseases management (3.5), Production of livestock feeds and forages (3.0), Livestock waste management (3.3), Administration of vaccines and drugs (3.2), Marketing of livestock/livestock products (3.0) and Knowledge of good animal husbandry practices (3.4,) respectively. Age, Herd size, Educational attainment, Extension contact and Livestock production system influenced participants interest in livestock trainings. The study recommended that L-PRES should capture more farmers into the program so that livestock farmers can access training in livestock production and more extension agents should be employed to reach out to livestock farmers on livestock innovation in the study area.