COMPETENCE REQUIREMENTS FOR PROFITABLE CUCUMBER PRODUCTION BY RURAL FARMERS IN AROCHUKWU LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ABIA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The study examined the competencies required by rural farmers for profitable production of cucumber in Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State. Specifically, the study examined the production, Management, Climate-smart and marketing competencies required by rural farmers for a profitable Cucumber enterprise. The population of the study consisted of 60 rural farmers involved in Cucumber production. A structural questionnaire consisting of 35 items were used to solicit response from the respondents. Descriptive statistics, Means and Standard Deviation were used in data analysis. The findings showed that the farmers in the study area required 35 relevant competencies for effective cucumber production objectively, the study identified the competencies required for effective Cucumber production, management, climate- smart and marketing of cucumber fruits. Socio- economically, the study reviewed that most at the rural farmers involved in cucumber production were farmers between the age of 31-40 years with a mean household’s size of 5 persons and a farming experience 1-10 years. Based on the findings, it was recommended among others that the identified competencies required for cucumber production be incorporated into the training modules of the Agricultural extension agents to enhance effective training of the farmers. Also, that Cucumber farmers in the study area should form cooperative societies to help them have a voice, access credit facilities and cross pollinate ideas for profitable cucumber production.