Mobile Technology For Agricultural Extension Training Course

Introduction

This comprehensive training course on Mobile Technology for Agricultural Extension equips participants with the knowledge and skills to effectively use mobile devices to deliver agricultural information and support to farmers. Leveraging mobile technology is crucial for modernizing agricultural practices, improving farmer productivity, and enhancing food security in both developed and developing regions. This training course will delve into the transformative potential of mobile technology in agriculture, explore effective strategies for designing and implementing mobile-based extension services, and equip participants with the tools to develop and manage programs that empower farmers with timely and relevant information.

This training course offers a thorough understanding of the opportunities and challenges associated with using mobile technology in agricultural extension, including the prevalence of mobile devices in rural areas, the need for user-friendly applications, and the importance of integrating mobile solutions with existing extension systems. Participants will learn how to assess the information needs of farmers, design and deliver effective mobile-based services, and evaluate the impact of mobile technology interventions. By the end of this training course, attendees will be equipped to design, implement, and manage sustainable programs that leverage mobile technology to improve agricultural extension services and empower farmers.

Target Audience

• Agricultural Extension Officers
• Farm Managers
• Agribusiness Professionals
• Rural Development Workers
• NGO Staff
• Government Officials
• Technology Providers

Course Objectives

• Understand the role of mobile technology in agricultural extension.
• Learn to assess the information needs of farmers.
• Explore strategies for designing mobile-based extension services.
• Develop skills in using various mobile applications and platforms.
• Identify appropriate mobile solutions for specific agricultural contexts.
• Advocate for policies that support the use of mobile technology in agriculture.
• Promote the adoption of mobile technology among farmers.
• Evaluate the impact of mobile technology on agricultural outcomes.

DURATION

5 Days

Course Content

Module 1: Role of Mobile Technology in Agricultural Extension

• Defining mobile technology and its applications in agriculture
• Understanding the concept of mobile-based agricultural extension
• Exploring the benefits of using mobile technology for information delivery
• Examining the impact of mobile technology on farmer productivity and income
• Understanding the role of mobile technology in sustainable agriculture

Module 2: Assessing Information Needs of Farmers

• Assessing the information needs of farmers
• Identifying the types of agricultural information required
• Analyzing the current information access channels
• Understanding the factors influencing information-seeking behavior
• Exploring the role of farmer groups and networks

Module 3: Designing Mobile-Based Extension Services

• Exploring strategies for designing mobile-based extension services
• Developing user-friendly mobile applications
• Creating effective content for mobile delivery
• Ensuring accessibility and affordability of mobile services
• Integrating mobile solutions with existing extension systems

Module 4: Using Mobile Applications and Platforms

• Developing skills in using various mobile applications and platforms
• Exploring SMS-based information services
• Utilizing smartphone applications for agriculture
• Leveraging interactive voice response (IVR) systems
• Using mobile platforms for data collection and analysis

Module 5: Identifying Mobile Solutions for Agricultural Contexts

• Identifying appropriate mobile solutions for specific agricultural contexts
• Using mobile technology for crop management
• Leveraging mobile tools for livestock management
• Applying mobile solutions for market information access
• Utilizing mobile technology for weather forecasting and climate information

Module 6: Advocating for Mobile Technology in Agriculture

• Advocating for policies that support the use of mobile technology in agriculture
• Understanding the policy-making process related to agricultural technology
• Developing advocacy strategies and campaigns
• Engaging with policymakers and stakeholders
• Building partnerships to promote mobile technology adoption

Module 7: Promoting Mobile Technology Adoption

• Promoting the adoption of mobile technology among farmers
• Developing awareness campaigns and training programs
• Providing technical support and assistance
• Addressing barriers to mobile technology adoption
• Ensuring the sustainability of mobile-based services

Module 8: Evaluating the Impact of Mobile Technology

• Evaluating the impact of mobile technology on agricultural outcomes
• Developing indicators for measuring program success
• Assessing the changes in farmer knowledge and practices
• Analyzing the effects on agricultural productivity and income
• Ensuring accountability and transparency in mobile technology interventions

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training.