Impact of Vocational Training on Livestock Farmers' Skills and Knowledge in Wildlife Conservation and Animal Breeding in Southwest, Nigeria

A1 Sanni MA; Baman A; Akinsulu A. A; Abiala, A. Abiala; Bamgbowu S.A

A1 Sanni MA 2Department of Animal Science, Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun, Ogun State, Nigeria
Baman A 3Department of Agricultural Education, Federal University of Education Kontagora Niger State. Nigeria
Akinsulu A. A 4Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun, Ogun State, Nigeria
Abiala, A. Abiala 4Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun, Ogun State, Nigeria
Bamgbowu S.A 1Department of Agricultural Science, Lagos, State University of Education, Epe, Lagos, Nigeria

Keywords: Keywords: Vocational training, livestock farmers, wildlife conservation, animal breeding, t-test,

Abstract

Abstract

This study assessed the effectiveness of vocational training programs on livestock farmers' knowledge and skills in wildlife conservation and animal breeding in Southwest Nigeria. A quasi-experimental design was used, utilizing a pre-test/post-test control group structure. A sample of 150 livestock farmers from Ogun, Oyo, and Ondo states were selected using multistage sampling techniques. The data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including paired t-tests and regression analysis. The results revealed significant improvements in the knowledge and skills of the farmers after the training program. In terms of wildlife conservation, the mean post-test scores (M = 71.25, SD = 10.45) were significantly higher than the pre-test scores (M = 49.80, SD = 12.30), t(149) = 16.43, p < 0.001. For animal breeding, the mean post-test scores (M = 68.70, SD = 9.85) also showed significant improvement compared to the pre-test scores (M = 47.55, SD = 11.05), t(149) = 15.87, p < 0.001. The regression analysis further demonstrated that education level (β = 0.29, p < 0.01), access to extension services (β = 0.34, p < 0.001), and farming experience (β = 0.22, p < 0.05) were significant predictors of post-training performance. The study concluded that vocational training significantly enhanced farmers' capacity for wildlife conservation and animal breeding practices. It is recommended that such training programs be expanded and tailored to address specific socio-economic characteristics of the farmers to optimize knowledge application and sustainability in agricultural practices.

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