Volume 5, No.1
Bassey, N. Ndubuisi, Anazodo, Christian C., Onogu, Bartiiolomew2
Abstract
A feeding trial was conducted to determine the effects of replacing maize with rice bran on the growth performance
of broiler chicks for sustainable food security. Three specific purposes and three research questions guided the
study. The experiment was carried out in the Department of Agricultural Education Poultry Unit, UNN. A Completely
Randomized Design (CPD) was adopted, and a total of 124-day-old chicks from Royal Hatchery Farms, Ibadan were
studied. The chicks were reared together for a period of one week, and thereafter, the 120 chicks that survived after
one-week adaption were distributed into four treatment groups- T1, T2, T3 and T4 through a simple random
selection, each group had 30 birds with three replicates of 10 birds each. Four different diets containing varying
levels of inclusion of rice bran were formulated. The birds in T2, T3 and T4 were supplemented with scent leaf extract
via the drinking water, while the birds in Tl (control group) were given oxytetracycline antibiotic. Data on daily feed
intake and weekly weight gain were collected using weighing scale, while data on feed conversion ratio was
computed. Data collected were analyzed using mean. The results from the study showed that Treatment 3- the group
fed 5% rice bran and 10ml scent leaf extract performed best in terms of feed conversion ratio, weekly body weight
gain and average body weight. T3 had 1.82 and 1.90 feed conversion ratio for week 2 and week 4, while T2 got the
best feed conversion ratio of 1.89 for week 3. For feed intake, the result showed that Tl recorded the highest average
weekly feed intake of 290.99g at week 2; while T3 recorded highest mean weekly feed intake of 576.15g at week 3;
whereas in week 4, T2 obtained the greatest mean weekly feed intake of 875.11 g. The result further revealed that
T3 had the highest average weekly body weight gain of 105.90g, 355,12g and 327.77g for weeks 2, 3, and 4
respectively The findings further revealed that Treatment 4 had the highest mean body weight of 1300.12g at the
end of week 4 closely followed by Treatment 2 had mean body weight of 1250.77g whereas T4 obtained the lowest
mean body weight of 1050.7lg. Based on the findings, the study concluded that inclusion of 5% rice bran for partial
replacement of maize, supplemented with 10ml scent leaf extract would enhance the performance of broiler chicks
.
Keywords: Broiler birds, Growth Performance, Rice Bran, Scent Leaf extract.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP DEVELOPMENT AND FOOD SECURITY: A CONJUGATE FOR A SUSTAINABLE ECONOMY
Benson O. Okoro
Abstract
Entrepreneurship development is a global strategy which every economy, including the less developed countries (LDCs) has endeavored to grapple with, mainly because of its inherent catalyst tendencies of job creation, poverty reduction, food security, sustainable economic growth and wealth creation amongst others. The paper aimed at investigating entrepreneurship development and food security: A conjugate for a sustainable economy. It x-rayed conceptual review of entrepreneurship development, food security and sustainable economy and also, the theoretical framework of entrepreneurship development followed by an empirical review. The objective of the study was to identify barriers, drivers, and other measures to boosting entrepreneurship growth. Qualitative approach was deployed to carry out the study in order to allow for critical review of related literature as a source of secondary data in journals, textbooks, newspapers and a host of others, which allows for an in-depth reasoning and comprehension. The contemporary entrepreneurship drive is knowledge-based and hence, the study was anchored on “resource-based view (RBV)” of managerial enterprise. It is therefore imperative to overhaul the Nigerian educational curricular, especially at the tertiary level so that, entrepreneurship development would occupy central stage in learning and character, and thus, yield the desired result of food security and sustainable economy over time period.
Keywords: Entrepreneurship development, Food security, Sustainable economy, Conjugate, Resource-based view
Dr. Edache A.
Abstract
This study investigated the production of local woven textiles as a means of alleviating poverty in Makurdi Local Government Area, Benue State. A survey research design was used for the study. The population for this study comprised of 550 local weavers and dyers. Five research questions guided the study. A sample size of 352 was used through purposive sampling. The instrument for data collection was questionnaire. Data were analyzed using frequency and percentage, mean and standard deviation. The findings showed that narrow loom was majorly use for the production of local fabrics, the white and black colour of Tiv traditional woven textile, fabrics were produced in large quantities representing 45% compared to Idoma and Igede tribes in the state. Majority of local weaver said they have difficulty in getting initial capital to start production was the main problem. Most of the local weavers adopted a strategy of constant supply of woven fabrics in the market in order to alleviate poverty. In conclusion the Tivs have high regard for locally woven fabric which forms the bed rock for their cultural celebrations. More than half of the local weavers earn between N50,000 to N55,000 Per annum representing 86% of the local weavers. Recommendations are that narrow loom should be used to teach the youths skills in weaving to reduce their poverty level among others.
Keywords: Local Woven, textile, poverty alleviation.
Ekwe, Gabriel Michael, Mbah, Christiana Nonyelum & 3Agbo, Joy Udoka
Abstract
The study centered on the academic quality assurance as a predictor of teachers' effectiveness in College of Education in Enugu State, Nigeria. Three research questions and three hypotheses were formulated for the study. The population for the study was 1344 consisting of 704 male lecturers and 640 female lecturers. Questionnaire as instrument for data collection was designed by the researcher to elicit appropriate information from the respondents. The reliability co-efficient of the instrument was calculated using Cronbanch alpha method. Alpha value was found to be 0.83 indicating high reliability of the instrument. Mean score and standard deviation were used to answer the research questions, and t-test statistic was used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. Some of the major findings of the study indicated that there is great extent availability of infrastructural facilities enhance teachers' effectiveness in Colleges of Education. It also revealed that effective policy implementation enhances teachers' effectiveness in Colleges of Education in Enugu State. Based on the findings, it was recommended that agencies responsible for policy implementation should put more effort in having more educational policy implemented.
Keywords: Academic, Teachers, Quality, Assurance, Indicators, Colleges
Ezebuiro, F. N., Ogechukwu Onah & Nwachukwu, C. U.
Abstract
This study determined the effect of self-instructional package on students' interest in agricultural science in Senior Secondary Schools. The study adopted quasi experimental design which involved groups of students in their intact classes assigned to experimental and control groups. The population for the study was 6,014 senior secondary one students in Nsukka Education Zone of Enugu State out of which 376 students were sampled using a purposive sampling technique. The instrument used for data collection was Interest Inventory Scale (IIS), which was subjected to face validation by five experts. Interest Inventory reliability index of 0.76 was obtained using Cronbach's alpha. Data were analyzed using mean to answer the research questions, while Analysis of Covariance was used to test the null hypotheses. The finding of the study showed that self-instructional package is more effective in promoting students' interest in Agricultural science than a conventional teaching approach in both gender and school type. The study also found out that there was a significant difference among school types in favour of coeducational schools and gender in favour of boys, but the effect on interest was not significant at 0.05 level. Consequently, it was recommended that curriculum planners should include self-instructional package in the school curriculum. The policies that enforce academic standards and discipline should be implemented by the School Administrators in all school types for the improvement of students' interest in Agricultural science in Enugu state.
Keywords: Interest, Self-Instructional Package, Crop Production, Agricultural Science
Ezema, P. N., Okoye, C. J. and Okereke, I. F.
Abstract
The objective of the study was to ascertain the mineral composition of gruel produced from nine (9) ingredients (maize (yellow), millet, sorghum, soybean, groundnut, tigernut, datepalm, crayfish and unripe plantain). Standard laboratory analytical method of AOAC procedure was used to determine the mineral composition of the sample. The mineral elements analysed in the sample were calcium (Ca), magnesium (mg), sodium (Na), Zinc (Zn) and Iron (Fe). The results on mineral composition shows that the gruel contained high calcium (320.47mg/100g), high magnesium (270.13mg/100g), low sodium (4.40mg/100g), low zinc (3.03mg/100g) and iron (18.49mg/100g). The result obtained showed that the gruel contained an appreciable amount of calcium, magnesium, iron and could be incorporated into diets or used as complementary foods for children to enhance growth.
Keywords: Gruel, Mineral composition, Calcium, Magnesium, Iron.
Ezenwobi Emily Chinelo & Rose K. Dalyop Jah
Abstract
The need to reduce the high rate of unemployment among OTM graduates necessitated this study. The study focused on strategies adopted by OTM departments in polytechnics in North East, Nigeria to strengthen their programme to meet students' employability skills needed for changing world of work. Two research questions and two null hypotheses guided the study. The study adopted survey research design. The population of the study was 628 OTM lecturers in 12 public (Federal and State) polytechnics in North East, Nigeria. Simple random sampling technique was used to select 246 OTM lecturers for the study. Self-developed questionnaire with 17 items which was face validated using the opinions of three experts two came from the field of Business Education and one expert from Measurement and Evaluation Unit in the Department of Education Foundation, both in the Faculty of Education, Gombe State university was used for data collection. The reliability of the instrument was determined using pilot testing and data calculated using Cronbach Alpha formula yielded correlation values of .78 and .88 for clusters B1 to B2 respectively with an overall index of 0.83 obtained. Mean, standard deviation and t-test were used for data analysis. Findings showed that OTM departments in polytechnics in North East, Nigeria to a low extent collaborate with industries as well as adopted innovative funding strategies to strengthen OTM programme to meet students' employability skills needed for changing world of work. Ownership of institution was not a significant factor in their mean responses on the extent OTM-industry collaboration, and innovative funding strategies are adopted to strengthen OTM programme to meet students' employability skills needed for changing world of work. Based on the findings of the study, the researcher concluded that; OTM department-industry collaboration as well as innovative funding strategies are not adequately adopted by OTM departments to enhance students' employability skills. It was recommended among others that; management of OTM programmes in polytechnics in North East, Nigeria should improve their collaboration/synergy with industries to help in the provision of modern teaching facilities/equipment. This will help to improve the quality of training offered to students to enable them acquire employability skills needed for changing world of work.
Keywords: Office Technology and Management (OTM), Employability Skills, Work Innovative Strategies
Fadip Audu Nannim, Chinaza Mercy Onowo, Folasade Adebimpe Alebiosu, Eze Emmanuel, and Onuoha Eucharia E.
Abstract
This study investigated the availability and utilization of robotics kits in teaching computer studies in secondary schools in Enugu state using a descriptive survey design. Four research questions guided the study. The sample for the study is made up of 30 teachers selected from ten schools. A structured questionnaire was used for the data collection. The instrument was face validated by three experts and yielded a reliability of 0.89. The data collected for the study were analysed using percentage, mean and standard deviation to answer the research questions. The results of this study show that the only available robotics technology for teaching computer studies in secondary schools in Enugu state are Python tutorial packages and temperature sensors. While Lego Mindstorm Education EV3, Lego Mindstorms robotics tool Kits, Arduino Kits, Raspberry Pi, Scratch (Block programming) package, PIR motion sensor and Ultrasonic sensor were not available, their extent of utilization in teaching computer studies in secondary schools was low. Also, the challenges militating against the utilization of robotics technology for teaching computer studies in secondary schools in Enugu State were found to include: the high cost of robotics kits, inadequate physical infrastructure, and insufficient budget allocation for purchasing robotics technology tools, among others. The study also recommended some measures for addressing these challenges, namely provision of grants to schools and departments to minimise the high cost of robotics equipment, adequate provision of physical infrastructure for teaching robotics by schools and the provision of periodic retraining of teachers on how to use robotics tool kits in teaching.
Keywords: Availability; utilization; Robotics Kits; Teaching; Secondary Schools
IMPACT OF EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES IN AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION ON FOOD SECURITY IN PLATEAU STATE
Y. D. Gotom, Angelina Emmanuel, Eya Chiamaka C. & C. U. Ugwuoke, PhD
Abstract
Emerging technologies have the potential of improving the food supply to the huge nation’s population instead of relying on traditional farming implements. The technologies reduce drudgery among farmers and attract more young farmers into farming industry. The study determines impact of emerging technologies in agricultural education on food security. The study adopted survey research design. Two research questions and two hypotheses guided the study. The study was carried out in Plateau State. The population for the study was 102 made up of 34 extension agents and 68 lecturers. Simple random sampling method was used in sampling the population of farmers. Structured questionnaire was used for data collection. The instrument was face validated by five experts. Cronbach Alpha reliability coefficient of 0.83 was obtained for the instrument. Data was collected by the researchers with the help of three research assistants. Data collected were analyzed using mean, standard deviation and t-test. The study identified 18 artificial intelligence (AI) skills required by farmers for prompt decision making in Plateau State and 17 skills use in operating global position system (GPS) by farmers for commercial agriculture in Plateau State. The study recommends the adoption of the skills in the state to improve food security to attain local and international needs.
Keywords: Emerging technologies, technology, agricultural education and food security.
Dr. Ejiofor T., Ugwuka, Grace I. & Eze, Chukwubuikem C.
Abstract
The study examined the strategies for empowering women participation in agricultural production for promoting food security and reduce unemployment in Enugu State, Nigeria. Three specific purposes guided the study while three research questions were answered. The study adopted survey research design. The population for the study was 26 university lecturers of Agricultural Education from University of Nigeria, Nsukka and Enugu State University of Science and Technology. There was no sampling since the population size was manageable. A structured questionnaire containing 26 items was used for data collection. The instrument was face validated by three experts and tested for reliability using Cronbach Alpha method. The reliability coefficient of 0.89 was established. Data were collected through direct contact with the respondents; and analyzed using mean and standard deviation. The findings of the study revealed that women need empowerment in different areas of agriculture such as crop production, fish farming, bee keeping, snail rearing, pig farming, poultry production, pest and disease control, storage of agricultural produce, processing of crop and animal produce and others. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended among others that the state government should provide training for women to acquire relevant skills needed in agricultural production and initiate policies that will target women's access to land, technology and empowerment in order to enhance agricultural production, ensuring food security and reduce unemployment.
Keywords: Food Security, Agricultural Production, Women Empowerment, Unemployment
Ibrahim Abubakar, Cajethan U. Ugwuoke, Mary Samuel
Abstract
The study investigated technical skills required by agricultural education students for self-employment in Gombe state, Nigeria. Three research questions and three null hypotheses guided the study. The study adopted descriptive survey research design. The population for the study was 109 respondents comprising of 69 Male and 40 female students of agricultural education. The instrument for data collection was structured questionnaire tilted “Technical skills required by students of agricultural education for self-employment”. The instrument was validated by three experts from the Department of Science Education Federal University of Kashere, Gombe State whereas the reliability of the instrument was determined using Cronbach alpha method which yielded 0.72 reliability coefficient. Data collected were analyzed using mean for the research questions and t-test statistic for the hypothesis at 0.05% level of significance. The study found out those agricultural education students required skills in the areas of plant science, animal husbandry as well as soil science for self-employment. It was recommended among others that the Gombe state Government should organize training and retraining program for agricultural education lecturers for effective instructional delivery.
Keywords: agricultural education, animal science, plant science, technical skills, students
Oluka, Sussan (PhD) & Ideh, Nonso. F.
Abstract
The study determined the Entrepreneurship Training Strategies needed by Electrical/Electronic Technology Education EETE lecturers for sustainable skills development of students of Colleges of Education (Technical) and job creation in South-East Nigeria. It was guided by two purposes of studies, two research questions and two null hypotheses. The study adopted a census survey research design. The population was 45 EETE lecturers in the three colleges of education (technical) offering EETE programme in Anambra, Abia, and Enugu States. There was no sampling due to the manageable size of the population. The instrument for data collection was 21 items structured questionnaire based on the two research questions that guided the study. The instrument was validated, and the reliability of the instrument was determined using Cronbach Alpha which yielded 0.85. Mean, standard deviation and ANOVA were used to analyze the data. Specifically, the study identified activity-based method required by EETE lecturers towards sustainable skills development colleges of education (technical) students for job creation in the southeast of Nigeria. The findings of the study revealed that giving tasks to students based on what was taught in the class, giving a peer project work to the students, engaging the students through a co-operative work training, exposing the student to the work study of the industry are among the entrepreneurship training strategies needed by EETE lecturers. Based on the findings, the study recommended that there should be establishments of training programmes by the government to expose the EETE lecturers to the activity learning based training strategy and there should be collaboration between the institutes and industries to enable them create a working atmosphere for the students to compliment what they have learnt. However, the study concluded that sustainable skill development and job creation among the students of colleges of education (Technical) can be achievable through adoption of entrepreneurship training strategy by EETE lecturers. Thus, acquisition and sustainable development of skill is a key element in creation of job and self-employment.
Keyword: Skills Development, Job Creation, Electrical/Electronic Technology Education, Entrepreneurial Training Strategies
Jeremiah Yakubu, Fatima Adamu
Abstract
This study sought to examine deployment of information and communication technology (ICT) in teaching and learning of computer education in secondary schools in Bauchi State, Nigeria. Three research questions and three hypotheses were generated to guide this study. The sample for this study was 40 principals and 200 teachers selected from public secondary schools in Bauchi State of Nigeria. Questionnaire was used as instrument for data collection. The research questions were answered using mean scores and standard deviation. The null hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance using t-test. The findings of this study showed that ICT tools used in teaching and learning of computer education are internet facilities, computer-aided information (CAI) software, Microsoft software application packages, laptop/desktop computers and projector/electronic smart board. The challenges of using ICT tools in teaching and learning of computer education include: lack of adequate ICT facilities in schools, unstable power supply in the schools, lack of ICT skills among teachers' poor perceptions of using ICT in education among teachers, students and the school administrators. The measures to curb the challenges of using ICT tools in teaching and learning of computer education include: provision of adequate ICT facilities in schools, provision of stable power supply in the schools, enlighten teachers, students and the school administrators on the need and importance of ICT deployment in the school and the school authorities should employ teachers with good ICT skills only. The study recommended that the government and its agencies should ensure that adequate ICT resources are put in place for the teaching and learning of computer education, computer education teachers should be encouraged to vigorously pursue ICT training with seriousness and the cost of ICT tools like laptops, desktops etc should be reduce to affordable prices so that teachers and students can be able to acquire them.
Keywords: deployment, information and communication technology (ICT), computer education.
ANALYSIS OF ICT SKILLS FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA Joel O. ALISON
Daniel ORIFAMAH, Peter U. IWUNNA, Felicia N. OPARA & Patrick N. UJAH
Abstract
This paper is a discussion on the major Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills which Nigerians have tapped into in this era of joblessness in the country. As a leeway out of poverty and destitution, Nigerians that have engaged in various skills of this digital era have successfully emerged as employers of labour and contributors to the growth of the economy in spite of the harsh economic situations facing the country. Through their numerous contributions to the growth of the economy and provision of employment opportunities to fellow citizens in desperate need of jobs, criminality and youth restiveness have been greatly tackled joblessness among the youth. Armed with lucrative ICT-related entrepreneurial skills therefore, the prospects of rescuing Nigeria citizens from the adverse effects of hunger, disease, destitution, violence and criminality could be further mitigated. The understanding is that aided with such skills, unemployed Nigerians could be self-reliant, self-employed and economically relevant to themselves, families, communities and the entire nation. It is therefore the target of this brief paper to discuss some of those key areas of ICT-related entrepreneurship which Nigerians have keyed into in their attempts to remain relevant to the growth of the national economy.
Keywords: Analysis, Development, Entrepreneurship, ICT, Skills
NDU, Augustina U., Okadi, A.O. & Issa, F.O
Abstract
Man's efforts at containing the effects of garden and store pests date back to prehistoric times due to losses that accrue from them. These losses range from destruction in the farm, store and at the consumers' place. These pests destroy crops by boring holes into seeds and fruits, eat up young seedlings, fruits and roots, and interfere with the natural physiology of plants thereby reducing both the quality and quantity of produce. Due to the injuries caused, man's effort has been to kill, control or repel the pests using various methods and strategies including chemical, biological, cultural, mechanical among others. They all yielded results at various rates, however, chemical method left serious hazards on human health and environment. Then the introduction of a combination of methods at varying times and quantities, hence the use of integrated pest management (IPM). The basic components of IPM include determination of types and levels of infestation, acceptance level, cultural and regulatory practices for control, monitoring and scouting, genetic modification of crops and animals. Other methods include mechanical, physical, biological and lastly, regulated pesticide application when other methods proved abortive. The study adopted review of relevant literature through various search engines in a narrative form within a time range of 2015 – 2023. Areas such as components, sustainability elements, challenges and strategies for sustainable use were discussed. Effective adoption and proper coordination of all IPM strategies in agricultural, residential, public areas and wild lands, gives a more cost-effective means of managing pests with low risk to natural resources and sustainable healthy food production.
Key Words: Adoption, Environment, Healthy Food Production.
Ngoka I.R., & Chikwendu J.U., Ngoka I.R: rosengoka1@gmail.com
Abstract The plant Cola pachycarpa and Cola lepidota have been identified as some of the underutilized but important fruit trees of South Eastern Nigerian agro ecological zones. These fruits are used by locals for nutritional and medicinal purposes though much research efforts have not been extended to this plant. The study evaluated the effect of Cola pachycarpa and Cola lepidota fruit juices on the food intake, body weight and lipid profile (total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein, low density lipoprotein & triglycerides) of alloxan- induced diabetic rats. Fresh Cola pachycarpa and Cola lepidota fruits were obtained from local markets and home farms within communities in Isiala Mbano local government area of Imo State and Isiala Ngwa South local government area of Abia State. The fruits were processed into fruit juice using an electric juicer. Forty healthy adult albino male rats without any drug treatment were randomized into eight groups based on body weight. All the rats in each group were induced with alloxan to become diabetic. Samples of blood were collected for basal biochemical and lipid indices as well as after induction with diabetes. The weight of each rat was taken at the beginning of the experiment, during and after to determine the weight gain. The experiment lasted for 21days. Data was analyzed statistically using IBM-SPSS (Special Package for Social Sciences) version 20 software for means and standard deviation. The body weight and food intake of all treated rats improved (5.14% to 10.76%). Monkey Cola fruit juices significantly (p < 0.05) increased high density lipoproteins (198.98%, CPR1). Cholesterol values throughout the experimental period showed a very high significant (p < 0.05) decrease in all groups treated with Cola juices and standard drug, except for the untreated, NT which recorded elevated cholesterol levels. Although the group treated with standard drug had the highest percentage reduction in LDL value (-74.05%), all other treatment groups had statistically significant (p <0.05) similar percentage reduction in LDL values. All the Cola juices especially those administered at 10mls/kg body weight have demonstrated positive impact in improving body weight and lipid profile in diabetes control. Its use and efficacy in enhancing lipid profile in diabetes management demands further research work. Keywords: Cola pachycarpa, Cola lepidota, fruit juices, body weight, alloxan-induced, diabetic rats, lipid profile.
Dr. N. I. Nungse, Prof. T. C. Ogbuanya
Abstract
The study was carried out to determine the effect of Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy on Occupational Stress among Electrical/Electronic Technologists and Instructors in Northern Universities in Nigeria for sustainability at the workplace. The study adopted a quasi-experimental research design. The study was conducted in five States in Northern Nigeria. Four research questions guided the study and eight hypotheses were formulated and tested at .05 level of significance. The population for this study comprised 50 Electrical/Electronic Technologists and instructors (EETIs). Questionnaire was used for data collection and was faced validated by three expert validates in the Department of Technical Education, Benue State University. The reliability of the instrument was determined using Cronbach alpha which yielded a coefficient value of .84. Both experimental groups and control groups were pretested without intervention. However, the experimental group received the experimental treatment (planned and formal Rational Emotive Behaviour Treatment). Mean scores were used to answer the research questions while ANCOVA was used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The findings of the study showed that there was a drop in the occupational stress among the EETIs exposed to the REBT as compared to the waitlist group. Occupational stress was noticeable among male EETIs than the female EETIs. Findings of this study indicated that REBT is an effective and time-efficient treatment modality for overcoming occupational stress experienced by EETIs in the Federal Universities in Nigeria. Thus, Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy is highly recommended to be integrated with the present Electrical/Electronic Technology Education curriculum to foster the disputation of work- irrational beliefs among EETIs
Keywords: Sustainability; REBT; Occupational stress; Electrical/Electronic Technologists; optimal productivity
Nwadi Calister Lebechukwu (PhD), Dr. (Mrs.) Akubue Benedette Nwanneamaka and Dr. Gloria M Nwakpadolu
Abstract
The main purpose of this study was to develop buba dress pattern for women with figure flaws living in rural areas of Anyigba in Kogi state. Four specific objectives guided the study. The area of the study was Anyigba in Kogi State. A sample of ninety teaching and non -teaching women with obvious figure flaws falling into 3- size categories was purposively selected for the study. Experimental procedures were carried out which involved taking body measurements, drafting, adapting or altering, cutting out and assembling the garment pieces. The garments were modeled, judges assessed the clothing fit and comfort. The obtained data from the assessment instruments were analyzed using mean. The study was carried out in two phases: development of buba dress patterns for Six (6) styles using body measurement, established from women with figure flaws. The findings from the study showed that the widest distribution of values indicative of figure flaws were found in the bust, necklines and sleeves. The widest alterations to the drafted patterns related to the necklines, sleeves and bust. The average rating of the clothing fit and comfort by the judges and models were satisfactory. The buba block pattern developed were rated very satisfactory and were recommended for tailors and fashion designers for promoting sustainable workforce.
Keywords: Development, Buba, Pattern, Women, Figure flaws
Nwakire Anthonia Obiageli, Ezeahurukwe Nkechi Lawrencia & Onah Ngozika Mary
Abstract
This paper examined pedagogical challenges besetting Business Studies teachers in Technical schools in Nigeria. The challenges ranged from teacher related to student related challenges, policy challenges among others. Related literatures were consulted to get information that guided the study. From the literatures reviewed, the following recommendations among others were made: On teachers' related challenges, government in collaboration with the technical school administrator should endeavor to employ qualified business studies in technical schools, assist Business Studies teachers financially to undergo training on how to use modern technologies needed for effective teaching and learning of business studies through 'train the trainers' workshops and seminar to enable them acquire the necessary skills and attitudes required to implement students-centered methods of teaching business in technical schools and keep abreast with the new trend in business studies curriculum. School administrators should ensure that adequate number of infrastructure, instructional materials and modern technologies required for practical oriented teaching and learning of business studies are provided by the government in compliance with the minimum standard for proper implementation of Business Studies curriculum For students' related challenges, school administrator should motivate the best behaved and best graduating students so that others can emulate them, curriculum planners should ensure that computer applications for office productivity are made part of business studies curriculum in order to have graduate who can fit into the modern world of ICT and teachers must prepare pre-school lesson plan in order to cope with some classroom challenges and endeavor to understand what their students are interested in and help them to achieve their objectives. For policy related challenges, Business studies curriculum developers should constantly review the business studies curriculum in order to incorporate the new trends of the ever-changing world and increase the number of periods allocated to Business Studies for effective teaching and learning of business studies in technical schools.
Keywords: pedagogy, pedagogical challenges, Business Studies teachers and Technical schools.
VOCATIONAL TECHNICAL EDUCATION AS A TOOL FOR SELF RELIANCE
Obi Bridget C., Ugochukwu Ndidi, Agbo Fredrick Emeka & Ubani, Nnaemeka Chidozie
Abstract
In Nigeria, education for self-reliance has been much yearned for. However, this has eluded the nation because one of the problems facing Nigerian educational system currently is non production of graduates with skills, competencies and ability to feet in the world of work. Most graduates depend on government for employment, and it is very difficult for government to meet up with the expectations, so the graduates remain unemployed. The unemployed graduates constitute serious social problems. This paper therefore, examined vocational technical education as a tool for self reliance and suggests some strategic steps for quality vocational technical education to meet expected dreams of society and youth.
Keyword: Vocational, Technical, Education, Tool, Self-reliance
Ode Rosemary Ayiba; Mbam Onyedikachi John; Ejiofor Toochukwu E. (Ph.D?, Ode Teddy
Abstract
The study was design to investigate impact of Entrepreneurship skills in teaching and learning Agricultural Education in Federal College of Education Okene Kogi State, Nigeria. Two specific purposes guided the study while two research questions were answered. A descriptive research design was adopted for the study. The population of the 120 comprises of both students and lecturers of the department of Agricultural Education Federal College of Education Okene Kogi State. While simple random sampling techniques was used to select a sample of 90 students and 10 lecturers as respondents for the study. The instrument used for data collection was twenty items structured questionnaires. The instrument was validated by two experts in Agricultural Education department in Kogi State University Anyigba. The reliability of the instrument was established using Cronbach Alpha reliability procedure which yielded a coefficient of 0.72. Data was collected through direct contact with the respondents and analyzed using mean and standard deviation to answer the research questions. The findings revealed that entrepreneurship skills are very important in Agricultural Education. It equally helps in managing of Agricultural products. It is recommended that curriculum developers should build in entrepreneurship skills in Agricultural Education curriculum. Also, Agricultural Education should not be based on theory alone.
Keywords: Entrepreneurship Skills; Agricultural Education. Teaching and Learning
Dr. Ogbonna, George Nwachukwu & Okanya, Arinzechukwu. V
Abstract
The study was carried out to determine the strategies required for improving the building construction management skills of building contractors in Enugu State. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. Three research questions guided the study. The population for the study was 284 subjects. Simple random sampling was used in choosing the sample size. The sample for the study comprised of 54 registered building contractors and 38 registered site supervisors in Enugu State. Instrument for data collection was a structured questionnaire. The instrument was subjected to face validation by three experts in the department of Industrial Technical Education, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Cronbach Alpha was used to establish the reliability of the instrument. The liability coefficient of 0.97 was obtained. Data collected were analyzed using the mean and standard deviation for the research questions. Based on the data analyzed, the study identified strategies for improving the building construction management skills of building contractors. The study therefore recommended the following among others; the federal and state ministry of housing should enact a law to make it mandatory for contractors to embark on annual mandatory training, retraining and in-service training to learn advanced, improved method and strategies in building construction. The identified strategies for improving construction management skill of building contractors should be included in the school curriculum of building construction of technical colleges and other higher institutions that teach building technology as a course of study. Government at all levels should set up task force groups to monitor the activities of building contractors to ensure they follow standard procedures in building construction.
Keywords; Buildings, Building Construction, Building Contractor, Construction Management and Site Supervisor.
Omeje Theresa Chinyere, Prof. E. C. Osinem & Prof. B. C. Echezona
Abstract
A two-season study was carried out at the Teaching and Research field of the Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, to test the effect of varying poultry manure rates on the growth of sesame in Nsukka agro-ecology. Four research questions and four null hypotheses formed in line with the specific objectives guided the study. Three rates of poultry manure (0, 5 and 10 tonnes/ha) were tested. The experiment was laid out in a 3 x 3 x 2 factorial experiment in a randomized complete block design in three replications. The population is 1,350 sesame plants in the field. 135 sesame plants were sampled for data collection. Mean was used to answer the research question while Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to test the hypothesis at 0.05 level of significant. A combined analysis was used to test effect of season at early and late planting. The result revealed that the application of 5 tonnes of poultry manure per ha significantly recorded the highest mean value of growth attributes such as plant height, stem girth, number of leaves /plant number of branches/plant, days to 1st flowering and days to 50% flowering. The result also revealed that establishing sesame plant during the early planting season produced significantly higher plant growth. The study concludes that there are possibilities of getting higher yield using lesser rates of poultry manure, lesser number of weeding and early planting and thus, recommended 5 tonnes of poultry manure per ha for maximum growth, weeding once at 3 weeks after planting early planting if arrangement is made for drying the capsules. It was also recommended that the Ministry of Agriculture, Agricultural Education experts and extension agents should encourage farmers in Nsukka agro-ecology to go into sesame production.
Keywords: Sesame, poultry manure, seasons, sustainability and agro-ecology.
Tambari Mtormabari DEEBOM (PhD), Charity Bubelebara OKARDI, Eric Nwabueze OGBUJI
Abstract
The study examined innovative strategies required for enhancing trouble-shooting skills of modern electronic
devices among craftsmen for self-reliance in Port Harcourt metropolis. Three research questions were answered
while corresponding null hypotheses were formulated and tested at 0.05 level of significant. The study employs
descriptive research survey design. The population of the study was all the electronic workshops in Port Harcourt
metropolis. Purposive random sampling technique was adopted to select 75 registered electronic workshops (Port
Harcourt City LGA = 25; Obio/Akpor LGA = 50). The instrument for data collection was a self-structured
questionnaire tagged “Innovative Strategies for Trouble-Shooting Skills Questionnaire (ISTSSQ)” designed in a four-
point modified rating scale. The instrument was validated and tested for reliability using test-retest method. A
reliability coefficient of 0.83 was established for the study using Pearson Product Moment Correlation. Data collected
were analyzed using mean with standard for research questions while the null hypotheses were tested with z-test.
The study found that swapping, section dividing and trapping signals were innovative strategies required by
electronic craftsmen in Port Harcourt metropolis for enhancing trouble-shooting skills of modern electronic devices.
Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended among others that craftsmen should be expose to these
methods of troubleshooting for effectiveness in trouble-shooting activities for maintenance and repairs of modern
electronic devices.
Keywords: Innovative Strategies, Troubleshooting, Modern Electronic Devices, Skills, Self-Reliance
AGRICULTURAL BIOTECHNOLOGY IN NIGERIA: BENEFITS, CHALLENGES AND PROSPECT
Ubah Georgiana Ngozi (PhD), Oketoobo Emmanuel Akintunde (PhD) & Isiwu Edward Chukwuka (PhD)
Abstract
Technology has brought much progress to the world, including the agricultural sector and it is implemented from the very start of cultivation to post-harvest handling. Biotechnology is a major force for development in developing countries such as Nigeria. It is found to contribute to solving human problems like water and food insecurity that impede national development and threaten peace wherever it is applied. This study identified the benefits, challenges and prospects of agricultural biotechnology in Nigeria and the need for enlightenment through Agricultural and Extension programs to Nigeria farmers. On the part of rural farmers, there is lack of adequate knowledge or awareness of biotechnology despite the fact that they constitute the bulk of Nigeria farmers. On the part of government, the problems include: lack of adequate implementation of government policy on bio-safety and genetically modified products, inadequate funding of education as well as research and development of products related to biotechnology. Other problem includes: inadequate infrastructures (including laboratory), poor funding and lack of national strategies needed for development and running of agricultural biotechnology. In spite of all the challenges associated with agricultural biotechnology, its prospects still remain great, if Nigeria is to meet with the food needs of the country's ever increasing population. The introduction of genetically engineered products will lead to the high productivity needed for commercialization and food security. Insect, virus and other related disease resistant crops and livestock are another viable area of contribution of biotechnology to agricultural production. In conclusion, agricultural biotechnology will not only ensure security, but in addition, will ensure that the local farmers utilize appropriate technology needed for large production, leading to the prosperity of the farmers and national economic growth and national economic growth, provided government plays its role of adequate funding and good policy implementation.
Keywords: Agricultural biotechnology, Benefits, Challenges and Prospects