1.0 Introduction
1.1 Background of Study
Historically, Kwara and Kogi States have been prominent in agricultural production, contributing significantly to the nation's food security through staple crops like sorghum (FAO, 2017). However, challenges such as limited technical skills among farmers and insufficient youth engagement in agriculture have persisted (Adeola, 2019). The development of a resource management program in sorghum production enterprises aimed at training secondary school graduates for employment in Kwara and Kogi States, Nigeria, addresses critical challenges and opportunities in agricultural education and workforce development. Nigeria, a country with a predominantly agrarian economy, faces persistent issues related to agricultural productivity, youth unemployment, and the need for sustainable agricultural practices (FAO, 2017).
Kwara and Kogi States are renowned for their agricultural productivity, with sorghum being a vital crop due to its versatility and nutritional value in local diets (FAO, 2017). Despite its importance, the agricultural sector faces challenges such as low productivity, inadequate technical skills among farmers, and limited opportunities for youth employment (Adeola, 2019). The initiative to develop a resource management program is a response to these challenges, aiming to equip secondary school graduates with practical skills in sorghum production management. By focusing on enhancing knowledge and skills relevant to agricultural entrepreneurship and sustainable farming practices, the program seeks to empower youth and enhance their employment prospects in the agricultural sector of Kwara and Kogi States.
1.2 Statement of Problems
The agricultural sector in Nigeria, particularly in Kwara and Kogi States, struggles with low productivity, inadequate technical skills among farmers, and limited opportunities for youth employment in agriculture (Adeola, 2019). Despite sorghum's importance as a staple crop, there is a lack of targeted educational programs that equip young individuals with practical skills in sorghum production management and entrepreneurship (Olayide & Heady, 1982). Additionally, the initiative must navigate logistical and infrastructural challenges, such as access to quality agricultural inputs and markets, which are essential for sustainable enterprise development in the region (FAO, 2017). These problems underscore the need for targeted interventions that address skill gaps, promote sustainable agricultural practices, and create viable employment opportunities for secondary school graduates in the sorghum production sector of Kwara and Kogi States.
1.3 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of the study is to develop a resource management program in sorghum production enterprises aimed at training secondary school graduates for employment in Kwara and Kogi States, Nigeria. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To pilot-test the developed curriculum and evaluate its effectiveness in enhancing skills and employability among secondary school graduates;
- To identify the specific skills and knowledge gaps among secondary school graduates regarding sorghum production and management;
- To assess the current challenges and opportunities in sorghum production enterprises in Kwara and Kogi States; and
- To design a comprehensive resource management curriculum tailored to the needs of sorghum production enterprises;
- To provide recommendations for scaling up the resource management program to other regions and crops, based on the lessons learned from the pilot phase.
1.4 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- What are the current challenges faced by sorghum production enterprises in Kwara and Kogi States?
- What are the specific skill gaps among secondary school graduates related to sorghum production and management?
- How can a resource management program effectively address these skill gaps and enhance employability?
- What are the key components that should be included in a curriculum for training secondary school graduates in sorghum production enterprises?
- What strategies can be implemented to ensure the sustainability and scalability of the resource management program beyond the pilot phase?
1.5 Significance of Study
The significance of the development of a resource management program in sorghum production enterprises for training secondary school graduates in Kwara and Kogi States, Nigeria, is crucial for various stakeholders:
- Government: Supports economic diversification, enhances agricultural productivity, and reduces youth unemployment through targeted educational initiatives.
- Educational Institutions: Provides opportunities for curriculum development and collaboration with industry, enhancing practical learning experiences for students in agricultural studies.
- Farmers and Agricultural Entrepreneurs: Increases access to skilled labor, promotes sustainable farming practices, and enhances productivity and profitability in sorghum production enterprises.
- Community: Fosters local economic development, empowers youth with marketable skills, and strengthens community resilience through enhanced agricultural practices.
- Youth: Offers pathways to employment and entrepreneurship in the agricultural sector, improves livelihoods, and encourages participation in sustainable development initiatives.
1.6 Scope of the Study
The scope of the research is focused on the Development of Resource Management Programme in Sorghum Production Enterprises for Training Secondary School Graduates for Employment in Kwara and Kogi States, Nigeria.
1.7 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, many things militated against its completion, some of which are:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
1.8 Definition of Terms
Resource Management Program:
A structured educational initiative aimed at equipping participants with knowledge and skills to effectively manage resources (financial, human, and natural) in sorghum production enterprises.
Sorghum Production Enterprises:
Agricultural entities involved in the cultivation, processing, and distribution of sorghum crops for commercial purposes.
Secondary School Graduates:
They are individuals who have completed secondary education (high school level) and are seeking further education or employment opportunities.
Employment:
Engagement in paid work or self-employment within the sorghum production sector, contributing to economic activities and livelihoods.
Kwara and Kogi States, Nigeria:
It refers to geographical regions within Nigeria known for their agricultural production, specifically focusing on sorghum cultivation and its economic significance.
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