bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Financial Literacy and Financial Management Practices Among Teachers and Parents in Adopted Communities Of University of Bohol
Authors: Bungabong Hazel , Rosalejos Michaela
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to determine the relationship between financial literacy and financial management practices among teachers and parents in the adopted communities of the University of Bohol. Specifically, it sought to determine their knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviors toward financial matters and their application of sound financial principles. A quantitative research design was employed, utilizing mixed-method research. The study was conducted in Bayacabac Elementary School in Maribojoc, Bohol; Lourdes Elementary School, Cortes, Bohol; and Songculan Elementary School, Dauis, Bohol. The population consisted of 429 parents, and 39 teachers’ participants were selected using random sampling. Ethical considerations, such as informed consent and confidentiality, were strictly adhered to throughout the research process. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, such as frequency counts, percentages, and means. The findings revealed that the respondents had a significant degree of difference in financial literacy. However, their financial management practices were found to be insignificant. The study concluded that there is a need to enhance the financial literacy of teachers and parents in the adopted communities. Financial literacy programs, and workshops can be implemented to improve their knowledge and skills in financial management. By promoting financial literacy, individuals can make informed financial decisions, reduce financial stress, and improve their overall well-being.
Credit Risk Management and Practices of Creditors and Borrowers in Collection Policy: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Arbasto Maria Luisa , Horca  Margorie , Libres Annabelle
Published: February 2025

The study examines the global economic challenges in 2024 and focuses on the recovery of the Philippine economy, stressing the importance of credit risk management and practices in communities supported by the University of Bohol. It shows that microfinance institutions (MFIs) can help improve financial health by offering better credit management and practices in collection policy, especially for borrowers with limited financial knowledge and inconsistent incomes. The results show that both borrowers and creditors are satisfied with the collection policies, but improvements are needed in payment options, debt recovery, and financial education. It is recommended to simplify payment processes, improve collections, offer ongoing training, and gather feedback to align policies. These changes will help strengthen credit risk management and practices to improve the community’s financial stability.
Sexual and Non-Sexual Risk-Taking Behaviors Among Youth in Tagbilaran City
Authors: Sapong Charito , Araneta  , Leodivica I Gloria , Daguplo Maricor
Published: February 2025

Youth is a period when individuals engage in exploratory behaviors as part of their self-discovery. During this phase, individuals may wind up doing non-sexual risk-taking behaviors such as smoking, drinking, drug use, suicidal ideation, and sexual risk-taking behaviors like premarital sex, unprotected sex, and multiple sex partners. These behaviors can be detrimental to the overall well-being of individuals. A single case of risk-taking behavior is already an alarming issue since it can cause harm to one's life. This study was conducted to identify the relationship among risk-taking behaviors such as smoking and drinking, drinking and drug use, suicidal ideation and smoking, and sexual and non-sexual risk-taking behaviors. The study utilized a quantitative-correlational method using a standardized questionnaire. Three hundred ninety-eight participants from the different barangays in Tagbilaran City aged 19 to 29 years old were included in the study through random sampling, ensuring that each of the fifteen barangays in Tagbilaran City was well-represented. Data revealed a significant correlation between smoking and drinking, suicidal ideation and smoking, and sexual and non-sexual risk-taking behavior. The interplay of the risky behaviors that the youth engage in is concerning since it may cause problems later in life. Parents, educational institutions, and the local government units play a significant role in mitigating these behaviors.
The Effect of Virtual Reality Application on Pain in Port Catheter Access in Pediatric Oncology Patients: Systematic Review and Narrative Synthesis
Authors: Önel Ayçin Ezgi , Gıynaş Tuba , Küçük Ulak Sevgim , Bal Yılmaz Hatice
Published: February 2025

Objective: This study aims to determine the impact of virtual reality (VR) on pain levels during port catheter access in children aged 4-19 years. The secondary objective is to evaluate the effects of VR on pain catastrophizing, fear, anxiety/distress levels, and heart rates.

Methods: This descriptive systematic review includes studies from databases like PubMed, Medline, Cochrane Library, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and others, using keywords such as "oncology," "leukemia," "virtual reality," "pain," "children," and "pediatric." Nine studies were selected based on the PICOS criteria, with a sample of 544 children. The review followed the PRISMA guidelines, and the data were synthesized using a narrative synthesis method.

Results: The studies showed that VR applications significantly reduce pain during port catheter access compared to standard care and other distraction techniques. Additionally, VR effectively reduces pain catastrophizing, fear, anxiety, distress, and heart rates. The application was found to be both effective and safe in managing pain for pediatric oncology patients.

Conclusion: The evidence quality from the included studies ranges from moderate to strong. While the results are promising, further research is necessary to explore the long-term effects of VR on pain management and psychological factors in pediatric oncology patients undergoing chemotherapy. This review is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023441761).
The nexus between extension services and community libraries as agricultural information sources for smallholder farmers in Amathole District Municipality
Authors: Sigigaba M. , Yusuf S.F.G. , Bitso C. , Popoola O.O.
Published: February 2025

The provision of relevant, accurate, and timely agricultural information to smallholder farmers remains vital in enhancing rural agricultural productivity. The role of the agricultural extension institution in disseminating up-to-date agricultural information to farmers is considered crucial to agricultural development and sustainability. Community libraries could also be instrumental in providing agricultural information to smallholder farmers. This study, therefore, assessed the delivery of agricultural information to smallholder farmers by the extension officers and community libraries in Amathole District Municipality. Using purposive sampling and stratification, a total of 169 smallholder farmers were selected; while, purposive and convenience sampling were used to identify five extension officers and 15 community librarians respectively. The presentation of results was done by using simple descriptive statistical tools. Findings revealed that extension officers in the study area mostly utilised interpersonal channels to disseminate information which often causes a delay in timely delivery. Community libraries are not used as an information channel/source by extension officers and farmers. Farmers perceive the information delivery services of extension officers as ineffective while community libraries are perceived as meant for the literate. There is no existing collaborative effort between extension officers and community librarians in providing agricultural information to the smallholder farmers in the study area.
An analysis of the effect of knowledge systems on empowerment levels and food security
Authors: Tamako N. , Thamaga-Chitja J. , Mudhara M.
Published: February 2025

The existing link between knowledge systems, empowerment, and food security of farmers has been proven in many studies. However, the measurement of their empowerment level focusing on the psychological dimension of their participation in these knowledge systems is limited in the agricultural sector. These knowledge systems empower farmers to access intangible and tangible resources that are valuable for farmers’ decision-making and performance. Thus, it was crucial for the study to investigate the levels of psychological empowerment outcomes attained by smallholder farmers, to evaluate the progress made by knowledge systems that were initiated and activated to empower farmers and improve their food security. A purposive sampling technique was used to select 219 smallholder farmers who are actively linked to the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture. Applying empowerment theory and previous studies, five psychological empowerment outcomes were identified. The principal component analysis method (PCA) was employed to generate the principal component (PC) of the perceived farmers’ psychological empowerment level and the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS) to measure household food security. The results showed that smallholder farmers were moderately and highly competent, had a sense of self-efficacy, had a sense of control, had agricultural knowledge, and were food secure. These systems not only empowered the farmers with tangible assets but also intangible outcomes as shown in the results of the study. These knowledge systems should be highly tapped into especially in this period of COVID-19 lockdowns accompanied by movement restrictions to ensure the sustainability of agricultural systems and inclusive empowerment of intangible and tangible skills for farmers. These knowledge systems could be used to comply with COVID-19 policies and legislations that are sensitive to physical contact and platforms for farmers to engage in knowledge transformation and empowerment.
The Influence of Budget Allocation to Implement the Policy of Extension and Advisory Services in South Africa
Authors: Lukhalo T. , Zwane E.M.
Published: February 2025

Extension support is viewed as an enabler of food security. However, the literature reveals that extension within the public sector in South Africa is not yet geared to satisfy the needs of resource-poor smallholder producers to break away from poverty and food insecurity. This paper is aimed at reviewing budget allocation and public expenditure on agricultural extension support services to provide evidence-based recommendations to inform the implementation of the national policy on extension and advisory services. The study was conducted using budget allocation and expenditure data collected through a survey questionnaire directed at nine provincial departments of agriculture. The problem investigated was to establish whether the budget allocated to provincial extension services would be sufficient to implement the extension policy. Data analysis employed descriptive statistics including t-tests of differences in means. The study has delivered several findings: a). The budget execution rates were high for both the extension practitioners and the farmer programmes, with budget execution for farmer programmes being better than that for extension practitioners. b). The budget trends indicate an efficient system of budget execution for the benefit of the farmers. c). There were statistically significant differences between mean budget allocation for extension practitioners and farmer programmes. d). It was further found that the differences between the mean expenditure on extension practitioners and mean expenditure on farmer programmes were statistically significant. e). Consistent with budget allocation, mean expenditure on farmer programmes was higher than mean expenditure on extension practitioners leading to the conclusion that farmer programmes spent significantly higher than extension practitioners in the five financial years. f). On the other hand, it was found that the cost of implementing the newly developed national policy on extension and advisory services was found to be greater than the current budget allocation. The paper concluded that the budget allocation was insufficient, yet farmers received value for money.
Analyzing the delivery of public agricultural extension services to rural households during Covid-19: A case study of Idutywa, Eastern Cape, South Africa
Authors: Mzuyanda C. , Luvhengo U. , Jiba P. , Khobai H. , Letsoalo S.S.
Published: February 2025

This study analysed the delivery of public agricultural extension services to the rural households of Idutywa, Eastern Cape. Primary data were collected from 75 participants. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data. Results revealed that there is generally a lack of access to extension services by households in the study area. Above all, the findings showed that access to agricultural extension services is influenced by limited movements, cellphone data, household size, and a limited number of farmers for training. Based on the control and treated variables, the Average Treatment Effect Treated from Kernel, Nearest Neighbours, and Radius matching methods were found to be negative which means that if farmers did not receive the program during the pandemic, the performance and yields were going to be very poor and low. The study recommends that extension officers should be empowered with modern tools to deliver need-based agricultural extension services in the future.
Adoption of in-field rainwater harvesting: Insights from smallholder farmers in Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
Authors: Mtyelwa C. , Yusuf S.F.G. , Popoola O.O.
Published: February 2025

The in-field rainwater harvesting technique (IRWHT) has been widely promoted for the sustainability of crop production, particularly in naturally water-stressed regions. It is a technology developed to harvest rainwater that could be put into efficient use for farming. The technology was a product of collaborative efforts of the Institute for Soil, Climate and Water (ISCW) of the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) and University of Fort Hare (UFH). The technology was piloted in several villages under Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality (RMLM) from 2004 to 2012. Sixteen years after the introduction of the technology, the study examined the sustainability use of the technology amongst the adopters from the Tyhume valley area. The quantitative methodological approach was used for this study and simple random sampling technique was used to select 150 project respondents for the survey. Data was collected and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Science. Descriptive statistical analysis, frequency count, percentages, means and standard deviation were used for quantitative data analysis. Findings revealed that 96% of smallholder farmers discontinued the use of IRWHT, with the majority abandoning the technology 5 to 8 years post adoption. Amongst the reasons adduced by the respondents include complexity of the technology, space taking up by the technology for water retention/ storage and time to construct the basins. The technology was labour intensive, time consuming and requires lots of inputs. Findings also indicate that farmers experienced poor support after the pilot stage. The study recommends efficient and effective monitoring and evaluation of projects post pilot stage to consolidates adoption process.
Adoption of mass media for agricultural purposes by smallholder farmers in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
Authors: Mdoda L. , Tshotsho A. , Nontu Y.
Published: February 2025

Smallholder agriculture is one of the imperative segments in the South African economy and it remains the imperative sector for livelihood generation. Farmers use mass media to access information needed for agricultural purposes to enhance agricultural practice and profitability. This study investigates the socio-economic drivers of using mass media for agricultural purposes by smallholder farmers in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study applied a descriptive survey research design to interview 200 smallholder farmers using a semi-structured survey. Data engendered were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Logistic regression model. The investigation outcome displays that 80% of the smallholder farmers currently use mass media for agricultural purposes. The study concludes that socioeconomic factors influence the use of mass media for agricultural purposes by smallholder farmers. Therefore, the study recommends the government to train farmers on the use of mass media usage and subsidize farmers so that they can purchase these modern technology tools.
Can restitution change lives of farm beneficiaries? Case of Waterberg district municipality, South Africa
Authors: Tjale M.M. , Mwale M. , Kilonzo B.M.
Published: February 2025

Despite interventions by South African government to implement land restitution after 1994, land ownership, unsustainable livelihoods, poor agricultural extension services, lack of funding, lack of farm implements and poverty among restituted farm owners remain a major challenge, hence, farmers’ livelihoods have not improved since they occupied the farms. It has been shown that, for example, in countries such as Estonia, Latvia, Brazil, Zimbabwe and South Africa, land restitution has been a failure, therefore, this article wants to provide answers to the issue why ownership of the farms has not changed the livelihoods of the farmers. Stratified random sampling was used to select study participants while qualitative data from key informants was collected through group discussions, photo-voice sessions, non-participatory observation, and interview methods while a questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data from farm beneficiaries. Thematic content analysis was used with the qualitative data, while the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used for quantitative data to compute descriptive statistics and cross-tabulations.  Almost (98.5%) of the respondents, 73.0% of whom were men and 25.5% women agreed that the livelihoods of farm beneficiaries in Waterberg district are still the same. It is therefore imperative to develop an intervention strategy to ensure enhancement of beneficiaries’ livelihoods.
Welfare Implications of Home Gardens Among Rural Households: Evidence from Ingquza Hill Local Municipality, South Africa
Authors: Nontu Y. , Taruvinga A.
Published: February 2025

Food insecurity is widely recognised as a global issue that requires immediate attention using multifaceted approaches. There is a generalised consensus about the positive role of home gardens in improving household income and food security. However, there is limited empirical evidence to support the above nexus worth exploring to enhance evidence of based programming. Therefore, this study used cross-sectional survey data from Ingquza Hill local municipality in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa (n = 200) to estimate the correlation between participation in home gardening, household food security, and household income. Results revealed that income from home garden sales was the least source of income for most households in the study area, contributing an average of 10.4% to total household income. An insignificant negative correlation was confirmed between home gardens and household food insecurity access score, suggesting that home gardens fall short of addressing household food security. A positive linear significant correlation was also confirmed between home garden participation and household income. The study concludes that home gardens designed for cash crop production may have a better food security premise than those intended for home food consumption and the sale of surplus.
Reproductive Performance of Extensively Managed Beef Heifers Mated at 14 Or 26 Months in the Central Bushveld Bioregion
Authors: Grobler S.M. , Scholtz M.M. , Neser F.W.C , Morey L. , Greyling J.P.C.
Published: February 2025

In South Africa, little local information is available on the value of early mating of extensively kept beef heifers. In contrast, international information is mainly restricted to dairy cattle and intensive production systems. The research was undertaken to evaluate the calving percentage of Bonsmara heifers mated for the first time in an extensively managed beef herd at either 14 or 26 months. Fifty percent of the heifers were mated at 14 months, while the other 50% were mated at 26 months of age for 90 days during the summer mating season (January to March). The research was conducted over six years (2009 to 2014). A 23 factorial analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed using the six years as block replications. This was done because different animals were evaluated every year. The calving percentage of heifers mated at 26 months was significantly higher than heifers mated at 14 months. From the current study, it seems unlikely that mating heifers at 14 months of age can improve on the traditional extensive system of mating heifers at 26 months on natural veld in the Central Bushveld Bioregion.
Using Logistic Regression to Characterise Communal Cattle Farmers in Botswana
Authors: Madisa-Maseko G. , North D. , Zewotir T.
Published: February 2025

This paper aims to characterise and profile subsistence cattle farmers according to selected attributes to establish their influence on the type of cattle breed kept by farmers in Botswana. The development of communal cattle production can be a sustainable way to improve the livelihoods of the rural population in Botswana. However, there needs to be more information or research conducted to characterise and profile communal cattle farmers with a precondition that the farmers can keep any of the three breeds (Tswana, Cross, or Exotic). A logistic regression model was fitted to determine the influence of 11 predictor variables on the type of cattle breed kept by the farmers. Results revealed that female-headed households were 50% more likely to have the Tswana breed of cattle than male-headed households. In contrast, female-headed households were 30% less likely to have cross-breed or exotic-breed cattle than male-headed households. Results further show that resource-poor farmers tend to keep Tswana breed cattle. These are holdings with no farm labour, no other economic activities, female-headed households, and their primary source of income specified as “other”.
Assessing Awareness and Perceptions Towards the Existence of Indigenous Foods in Port St Johns of the Eastern Cape South Africa
Authors: Ntlanga S.S. , Jiba P. , Christian M. , Mdoda L.
Published: February 2025

Intolerably high rates of food insecurity and micronutrient deficiencies still prevail at an alarming rate in rural poor communities who practice subsistence farming. Despite the fact that, the indigenous fruits and vegetables are abundantly available and are easily accessible in these rural communities. The consumption of indigenous vegetables and fruits can combat the food insecurity and micro-nutrient deficiencies in the resource-constrained communities. This is attributed to negative perceptions shared among rural communities specifically the younger generation are unaware about the indigenous foods.  Against this background, the study was developed to assess awareness and perceptions towards indigenous fruits and vegetables in Port St Johns of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa.
Intolerably high rates of food insecurity and micronutrient deficiencies still prevail at an alarming rate in rural poor communities that practice subsistence farming. Even though indigenous fruits and vegetables are abundantly available and are easily accessible in these rural communities. The consumption of indigenous vegetables and fruits can combat food insecurity and micro-nutrient deficiencies in resource-constrained communities. This is attributed to negative perceptions shared among rural communities, specifically the younger generation, who are unaware of indigenous foods. Against this background, the study was developed to assess awareness and perceptions towards indigenous fruits and vegetables in Port St. Johns of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to evaluate the availability of the perceptions of households and the contribution of indigenous fruits and vegetables to household food security. A total of 340 respondents were purposively selected in the study area. A positive impact on household food security was revealed, suggesting that consuming indigenous fruits and vegetables may address rural household dietary diversity and food insecurity. The study argues that indigenous fruits and vegetables may be used as a food security coping strategy at the household level in rural areas, given their availability, especially in summer. Additionally, dispelling several negative perceptions and targeting consumption drivers will enhance the food security nexus of indigenous fruits and vegetables at the household level.
Climate Change Impact and Adaptation of Agro-Pastoral Farmers in Awerial County, Lakes State of South Sudan
Authors: Ndebele Z. , Zenda M.
Published: February 2025

This study examined the impact of climate change and weather-related extremities on the livelihoods of agro-pastoral farmers to identify the climate change adaptation practices adopted by the climate-affected households in Awerial County of South Sudan. A mixed methods approach was utilised. 401 respondents were interviewed using individual questionnaires and focus group discussions. The study’s results showed that agro-pastoralists perceive climate change as occurring in the study location, as evidenced by perceived increases in temperature, rainfall variability, and increased frequency of floods and droughts. Climate change also impacts livelihoods, as can be seen from livestock losses, increased food insecurity, loss of inputs, deforestation, and diminished water for livestock and domestic purposes. In the face of climate change, agro-pastoral farmers adapt by planting trees, crop/livestock diversification, mixed farming, soil and water conservation, reduction in livestock numbers, adjustment of planting dates, irrigation, and application of fertilisers. However, adaptation to climate change by agro-pastoral farmers is constrained by limited access to credit, lack of skills/information and access to agriculture inputs/technologies. The extension message includes strengthening local early warning systems, livelihood diversification and promotion of climate-sensitive agricultural practices for agro-pastoralists.
Rural Community Perceptions on Land Use Change and its Effects on Their Agricultural Practices in Vulindlela Traditional Area, Kwazulu-Natal Province of South Africa
Authors: Zondi N.E.
Published: February 2025

This study assessed the level of awareness among the Vulindlela rural community regarding land use and land cover changes occurring in their community. Additionally, this study sought to examine the effects of these land use and land cover changes on the agricultural practices of the Vulindlela rural community. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods. Secondary data from Statistics South Africa and the Msunduzi Local Municipality were used to determine the relationship between population growth and housing unit expansion. Primary data were collected through semi-structured interviews to capture the community’s perceptions of land use change and its impacts on agricultural activities. The study results indicated a strong relationship (r = 0.81, t = 2.39, df = 3, p = 0.10) between population growth and an increase in housing units. Respondents also noted that land use and cover change has occurred in Vulindlela. The driver of this change is an increase in residential housing units built on land designated for agriculture (crop and pastoral fields). Residential development on agricultural fields is a result of the de-agrarianisation by the local community. De-agrarianisation drivers in Vulindlela include a lack of agricultural equipment, high costs (time and money) associated with agriculture, inadequate government support, increased dependence on government grants and lack of interest in the younger generation in agriculture.
Extension Worker’s Views Regarding the Digital Mobile Technology Services in Addressing Climate Change Issues: A Case Study of Botswana
Authors: Keba H. , Moremedi G. , Zwane M.E.
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to investigate the views of agricultural extension educators about digital technology services in addressing issues about climate change. This study was designed to analyse extension worker’s perceptions regarding the use of digital technologies in addressing climate issues in agriculture. The study used mixed methods involving qualitative and quantitative data. Four cohort groups comprising 32 in-service agricultural extension students, were admitted for a diploma program at the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN).
Results showed that most (67%) of the extension workers surveyed indicated they have basic and intermediate skills rather than expert and advanced skills in digital applications. Almost half of the respondents (47.7%) indicated having smart mobile phones, and 45% showed international interest in bandwidth and secured internet systems in regions where they worked. Ninety percent (90%) of the respondents agreed with statements supporting agricultural digital revolution. The study found no significant association between gender and usage of digital mobile technology. The paper concluded that extension workers must be kept up-to-date to align with evolving technologies such as digitalisation. It is also concluded that most extension advisors own a cell phone.
Utilisation of Digital Technologies by Smallholder Farmers in South Africa
Authors: Bontsa N.V. , Mushunje A. , Ngarava S. , Zhou L.
Published: February 2025

The study's objective was to assess the utilisation of digital technologies by smallholder farmers, focusing on the types of digital technologies they use, their awareness and perceptions, and the constraints they face. The study used a systematic literature review design. The results show that there has been an increase in studies focussing on using digital technologies by smallholder farmers in South Africa.  The focus has been on e-readiness, tools, and constraints in assisting smallholder farmers amongst extension workers, mainly from North West, KwaZulu-Natal, and Eastern Cape Provinces. Relevant topics have been smart farming, digital agriculture, adoption, and climate change.  However, smallholder digital technology studies in South Africa have transitioned from small-scale agriculture and extension between 2012 and 2014 to transformation, food security and perception between 2014 and 2018, and innovations, communication technologies, and dissemination, more recently. Recent studies have focused on the productivity-enhanced adoption of ICTs, with various technologies used along the complexity spectrum. However, smallholder farmers have concentrated on low-tech digital technologies on the lower end of the complexity spectrum because they are more aware of them. End-user, service provider, and digital technology characteristics have constrained the use of digital technologies. In conclusion, smallholder farmers are aware of and use low-tech digital technologies limited by inherent internalised characteristics of the farmers themselves and the digital technologies.
The Digital Readiness of Agricultural Advisory Professionals: A South African Case Study
Authors: Von Maltitz L. , Van Niekerk J.A. , Davis K.
Published: February 2025

Agricultural advisory services link producers, the government, the research community, and credit and input supply organisations. This vital role can be enhanced through the efficient use of digital platforms, especially in South Africa, where the advisor-to-producer ratio was last recorded to be 1:1019. According to the last census conducted in South Africa, 92.1% of households own a mobile phone, and only 21.1% do not have access to the internet, providing the platform for timeous interaction between advisors and their clients. The affordability of technology and data services, network coverage, and digital literacy are obstacles in the country that need to be addressed if access to ICTs is to be improved. This article focuses on the readiness of South African agricultural advisors to use digital platforms. Survey research was used to collect data from professionals, and the data was evaluated using a survey instrument that was developed based in part on similar work done in Rwanda. The results show that although most advisors are ready to use digital platforms, many obstacles must be addressed for efficient application.
Assessment of Small-Scale Farmers' Perceptions Towards the Sustainability of Soybean Production in Nkangala District Municipality of the Mpumalanga Province
Authors: Mthombeni V.T. , Khwidzhili R.H. , Zwane E. , Mmbengwa V.M.
Published: February 2025

To achieve the FAO's goals of increasing global agricultural productivity and soybean production by 2050, understanding small-scaler farmers' perceptions of the sustainability of soybean production is crucial. This study involved a sample size of 204 participants, randomly selected from a population of 433. Correlation and regression analyses assessed small-scale farmers' perceptions of factors affecting soybean production sustainability in Nkangala District Municipality in Mpumalanga Province. This was achieved by examining the influence of participants' perceived factors and attitudes towards soybean production's sustainability. The inferential findings revealed that farming, economic, extension and education, social, and policymaking factors affected participants' perceived attitudes towards the sustainability of soybean production in the study area. This suggests that any unit increase in these factors is associated with an increased probability of the participants' perceived attitudes towards the sustainability of soybean production. Future studies may focus on socioeconomic factors affecting participant's perceived attitudes towards the sustainability of soybean production. The paper concludes by recommending that these factors should be considered by the government and policymakers when implementing programs to improve soybean sustainability through the inclusion of small-scale farmers.
The Challenges of Extension Service Delivery and its Determinants in the Agricultural Extension System: An Insight from a Study in North-Western Ethiopia
Authors: Kibrom A.A. , Haimanot A.B. , Tigist P. , Beyene D.B.
Published: February 2025

The present study examined the significant bottlenecks of extension service and determinants of service delivery in North Western Ethiopia. A total of 120 sample households were randomly selected using a multistage sampling technique to represent the highland, lowland, and midland districts in the former North Gondar zone. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected. Through descriptive and econometric analysis, the study found that the bottlenecks to the effectiveness of the extension service delivery are highly connected to the poor functioning of farmer training centres, the top-down approach, the limited capacity of development agents, and poor infrastructure. Specifically, the model results for the variables participatory extension approach, integrated extension service, land size, and demonstration showed a positive and statistically significant influence, with coefficient values of 0.734, 0.496, 0.096, and 0.701, respectively. Based on the results, it was concluded that the existing extension service delivery practices were very low due to multiple and interlocking challenges that demand concerted efforts at different levels. Therefore, extension services should be designed based on local problems and challenges, with intimate interaction with farmers and stakeholders and move away from a one-size-fits-all approach.
Market Orientation in Agricultural Extension and Advisory Services Approaches: Experiences from Service Providers and Farmers in Central Malawi
Authors: Chanza C. , Mgalamadzi L.
Published: February 2025

Market-oriented extension and advisory services enable linkages among actors within agricultural value chains, which is necessary for commercialisation. The study analysed the market orientation of extension approaches employed by various service providers. Qualitative methods were used to collect data from 12 key informants and 84 farmers through 11 focus group discussions. The study targeted extension providers from public and private sectors and non-governmental and farmer-based organisations. We found that extension service providers employ the commodity specialised approach, farmer business school, project approach and smallholder horticultural empowerment and promotion approaches to reach farmers. There are differences in the market-orientation rating of the approaches. Unlike other service providers, public service providers perceived capacity gaps in all areas. The main challenges faced include inadequate funding, high extension worker-to-farmer ratio, poor policy environment and weak legal frameworks, lack of trust and information sharing among actors, poor coordination among extension service providers and actors, and high illiteracy levels among farmers. We conclude that most approaches are not fully market-oriented. Service providers of extension and advisory services should design and implement tailored market-oriented extension and advisory services for farmers commercialising to different levels.
An Investigation of Estate Planning Among Farming Businesses in the Western Cape Province, South Africa
Authors: Lingani M. , Hough E.C.
Published: February 2025

Estate planning is one of the important processes in managing a business, and farm owners often avoid it since it deals with emotional and difficult issues. Additionally, studies have highlighted that decision-making on future ownership of many businesses is still poorly understood. This study investigated the extent of the availability of estate plans amongst farmers in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. Interviews were conducted, and data was collected from 42 farmers using structured questionnaires following a mixed-method research design. Descriptive statistics such as mean, frequencies and percentages were employed. The study revealed that the majority (66,67%) of the farmers do not have any estate plan available. In comparison, 47,62% of the farmers were unfamiliar with the estate planning process. In addition, the study also revealed that the businesses own assets with a minimum value of R500 000 to a maximum value of over R2,5 million, showing differences in the commodities across the Western Cape Province. It is recommended that farmers be aware of their responsibilities regarding estate planning, and the Western Cape Department of Agriculture should conduct workshops around the legal side of the business. For funding purposes, the Western Cape Department of Agriculture needs to include conditions related to estate plans in the application forms to prevent the closure of businesses after the recipient's death.
An Entrepreneurship Framework for Improved Productivity and Financial Performance of Primary Agricultural Cooperatives in North West Province
Authors: Mangoejane T.P. , Christian M.
Published: February 2025

The study was conducted to establish an entrepreneurship framework for the improved productivity and financial performance of agricultural cooperatives in South Africa. For this reason, a sample of twenty-nine (29) agricultural cooperatives were selected in the North West Province using the snowball sampling method. Descriptive analysis was used to assess the nature and characteristics of primary agricultural cooperatives from the views of the cooperative managers. The results were presented using the general frequency distribution, and a summary of the descriptive analysis, such as frequencies and percentages, is illustrated using graphs, charts, and tables. Productivity was tested using a stochastic frontier, and three financial ratios (liquidity, solvency, and profitability) were used to measure financial performance. The study's findings assert that most of the agricultural crop cooperative managers are older men with primary education as the highest qualification, which is the lowest level of education. Moreover, the study finding from the stochastic frontier measure of technical efficiency revealed that the predicted technical efficiency varies slightly among cooperatives, with a minimum value of 0.9920, a maximum value of 0.9922, and a mean efficiency of .9920437. According to the results, the distribution of the technical efficiency shows that 100% of the sampled cooperative’s technical efficiency skewed in the 0.90-1.00 range. It also identified that financial performance was the main contributor to the performance of the crop cooperatives. Moreover, the study's findings were used to formulate the proposed entrepreneurship framework, which will help improve the performance of agricultural cooperatives and affiliated members (smallholder farmers). The developed entrepreneurship framework suggests that agricultural managers should have management skills, opportunity skills, and networking skills to be entrepreneurial. By exploring these sets of skills, entrepreneurs will be developed in the agricultural value chain. Furthermore, this framework suggests that financial performance is the main contributor to crop cooperatives' performance.
Perception and Utilisation of Organic Farming Practices among Smallholder Farmers: Evidence from a Micro-Level Survey in Ehlanzeni District South Africa
Authors: Dube P.I. , Olorunfemi O.D. , Nyawo P.H.
Published: February 2025

The study analysed the perception of organic farming practices among smallholder farmers in Mbombela, Mpumalanga, South Africa. An interview-administered questionnaire collected data from 80 randomly sampled smallholder farmers. The elicited data was descriptively analysed using percentages, averages, and ranks. In contrast, a multiple linear regression model was used to determine the socioeconomic factors that influence smallholder farmers' utilisation of organic farming practices. The findings revealed that although smallholder farmers were aware of organic agricultural methods, adopting organic practices is still yet to be widespread and optimal in the area. This is due to some severe challenges indicated by the respondents, including inadequate government support, the unpredictability of climate change, inadequate access to grants and credit facilities, inadequate collaboration and collective action among farmers, and inadequate access to extension services. Furthermore, the findings of the regression model revealed that formal education and organic farming training attendance were significant socioeconomic factors influencing smallholder farmer’s utilisation of organic farming practices. Given the need to scale up the adoption of organic farming practices in the area, it was recommended that increased government support, adequate access to credit facilities and significant improvement and effectiveness of extension services in providing training and encouraging collective action among the smallholder farmers is required.
Цифровые технологии и большие данные в социологических исследованиях: концепция, методология, возможности
Authors: Константиновский Давид Львович , Попова Екатерина Сергеевна , Кузнецов Игорь Сергеевич , Кузнецов Роман Сергеевич
Published: February 2025

Процессы цифровизации преобразили многие сферы социальной жизни. По одним направлениям внедрение цифровых технологий проходило в плавном, «сглаженном» режиме, в других сферах пришлось экстренно осваивать новые цифровые технологии. Сфера социологических исследований не является исключением: цифровые технологии сбора и анализа данных прочно укореняются в практике исследований социальных наук. Их применение и анализ больших данных в социологических исследованиях выступают колоссальным ресурсом прорывных исследований социальной действительности, но и не меньшим риском в ее объяснении и разработке практических рекомендаций по решению социально-прикладных задач. Прежде чем приступить к работе с цифровыми технологиями, инструментами и большими данными, необходимо прояснить их теоретико-методологическую природу и потенциал практической значимости с позиции академической социальной науки. Целью статьи является анализ возможностей, ограничений и первых уроков существующей к настоящему времени практики применения цифровых технологий (в том числе больших данных) в социологических исследованиях. Рассматриваются особенности сбора и анализа таких данных, анализируются различные способы их интерпретации. Внимание акцентируется на сопряжении социальных наук, больших данных и машинного обучения. В частности, отмечается, что до сих пор уделяется мало внимания моделям машинного обучения. Подчеркивается необходимость развивать математическую и алгоритмическую стороны указанного синтеза. Делается предположение, что умеренный эмпиризм и априоризм способны стать отправными точками для плодотворного обсуждения методологии, эпистемологии и принципов получения социологических знаний на основе больших данных. Формулируются ответственность и роль социолога в решении социально-прикладных задач при анализе больших данных. Обосновывается критичность применения метода триангуляции данных.
О «русской ловушке» и отсталости: недоразвитая Европа или институциональная альтернатива?
Authors: Заостровцев Андрей Павлович
Published: February 2025

В статье анализируются две книги Д.Я. Травина, в которых поставлены фундаментальные вопросы исторического развития России. Обращается внимание на то, что как проблема российской отсталости, так и «русской ловушки» исследуются не сами по себе, а  через поиск аналогов в истории Европы. Очевидно стремление автора книг построить аргументацию таким образом, чтобы охарактеризовать Россию как некое отклонение в рамках европейской цивилизации, а не альтернативную ей социальную систему. В статье дается критический разбор этой позиции и подчеркивается несовместимость фундаментальных российских институтов с правовыми порядками даже в их примитивных формах. Отмечается, что без обращения к истокам институциональной среды России в форме ордынских институтов всевластия и их нацеленности на экспансию объяснение отсталости оказывается неполным. «Русская же ловушка» в виде поместной системы на первый план должна выдвигать не крепостное право, а отсутствие суверенитета личности у элитных слоев, их принадлежность деспоту. В то же время, несмотря на искусственную «европеизацию» России, обе книги обладают несомненной ценностью, так как дают развернутую панораму европейского мира вплоть до середины XVIII в. и на ее фоне исследуют отдельные феномены русского общества соответствующих периодов.