Semi - Urban Farmers’ Perception of The Roles of English And Indigenous Languages in Agriculture and Farm Development in Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Language is critical in communication and plays a crucial role too in agricultural development as it shapes access to knowledge, technology transfer & farmer participation. Using a sample size of 120 farmers selected around the semi-urban areas of Imo state, information was elicited on the roles of the languages mentioned above. Questionnaire and oral interview were used to collect data. The analysis of data was done using descriptive statistics, such as percentages, mean, and standard deviation. Results showed that 68.3% of the farmers attended primary education, 25% attended secondary schools, 57.5% within the age bracket of 60 year and above. The languages commonly used in the area include, English (98.3%), Igbo (99.1%), Hausa (63.3%), Yoruba (75%), Owerri indigenous dialect (91%.). English language is useful in accessing agricultural information (M=2.45), improves effective communication(M=2.51), promotion of effective learning (M=2.38), linkage to wider markets (M=2.42), support farmers in record keeping (M=2.39). Results showed that the farmers have high proficiency in local languages (80%) than in English Language (47.5%). In speaking and writing English, 50% and 58.3% have low proficiency respectively. While they have high proficiency in writing (73.3%), speaking (81.7%), listening (85%), and reading (79.7%), 70.8% preferred local languages to English language. The local language too, especially Igbo language makes agricultural information easier to understand (M=2.33), information becomes more relevant (M=2.47), best for farmers with low literacy level (M=2.50), reduces communication barriers (M=2.44), provides equal access to agricultural programs (M=2.38), among other roles. The challenges faced include; low self esteem of rural farmers (M=2.56), translation of materials takes time (M=2.47), miscommunication due to translation issues (M=2.48), among others.