Reconfiguring Agricultural Innovation Linkages through Art-Based Extension Pedagogy: Implications for Climate Change Adaptation among Smallholder Farmers in Southeast Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined whether art-based extension pedagogy reconfigured agricultural innovation linkages and strengthened climate change adaptation outcomes. A cluster-randomized controlled trial involving 420 farmers across 24 rural communities in Imo and Ebonyi States compared an art-integrated extension model with a conventional advisory approach over nine months. The intervention employed participatory visual mapping, agro-ecological storytelling, and performance-based knowledge exchange to strengthen interactive learning among farmers, extension agents, and researchers. Multilevel regression results showed higher adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices in treatment communities (β = 0.29, p < 0.01) and improved adaptive capacity scores (p < 0.05) relative to controls. Network analysis indicated a 21% increase in farmer–extension–research interactions, while seasonal yield variability declined by 15% in treatment sites. Mediation tests confirmed that strengthened innovation linkages significantly predicted behavioural adaptation outcomes. The findings demonstrated that art-based extension integration enhanced institutional connectivity and climate resilience among smallholder farmers. The study concluded by providing a robust  and empirical evidence that art-based extension pedagogy could significantly enhance agricultural innovation processes and climate change adaptation among smallholder farmers in Southeast Nigeria.