The impact of training on the application of modern agricultural inputs: evidence from wheat and maize growers in Northwest Ethiopia

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study aims to evaluate the impact of training on the use of modern agricultural inputs in comparison to the recommended amount for wheat and maize production in Gozamin and Machakil Woredas in Northwest Ethiopia. The study employs a mixed-methods research design. The propensity score matching and thematic methods of analysis were used to analyze the quantitative and qualitative data, respectively. The study finds that trainees reduced the excess application of wheat seed by 11.66% to 15% ha-1. In Machakil, they tended to reduce excess NPSB application by 21% and increase urea by 52.17% for wheat. But, the NPSB rate was found to increase by 100.4% above the recommended rate in Gozamin. For maize, the trainees increased urea by 12.42% ha-1 in both Woredas. The study recommends the provision of consecutive practical training and demonstrations till farmers get convinced that applying the recommended rates of inputs significantly enhances crop productivity.