AKSU Journal of Agricultural Economics, Extension and Rural Development
ISSN(Online): 2736-0040 ISSN(Print): 2695-1975
ISSN(Online): 2736-0040 ISSN(Print): 2695-1975
Abstract
Participatory rural development (PRD) has emerged as a crucial paradigm in development studies, emphasizing the active involvement of local communities in identifying needs, planning, implementing, and monitoring development initiatives. The main objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of the contributions of Community and Social Development Project (CSDP) to participatory rural development in Ika Local Government Area Akwa Ibom state, Nigeria. Random sampling technique was used to select two clans (2) from four (4) communities in Ika L.G.A, while simple random technique was used to select the two hundred (200) respondents who were surveyed with the aid of structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and 4-point Likert-type scale were used to analyze the data. The findings of this study, revealed that majority (62%) of the respondents were male gender while female accounted for the remaining 38%. About 70% of the respondents were married, 14% were single, 12.5% were widowed and 7% were divorced. Majority (74.5%) had spent 6 - 12 years in formal education, 18.5% had spent 13 - 18 years in formal education, 1% spent greater than 18 years in formal education while 6 % spent less than 6 years in formal education. The average years spent in formal education was 10 years. The average monthly income of the respondents in the study area was N43457.5. On the basis of membership of social organization, majority (74%) were not members of any social organization while the remaining 26% accounted for respondents who were members of social organizations. The study further revealed that monthly income (p<0.005) and educational level (p<0.005) significantly influenced community participation. The study therefore recommended that Projects capable of improving the economic status of the people should be selected. This can be achieved through adequate involvement of the people or their representatives in all the stages of project identification. Roles and responsibilities should be shared among members participating in the project to instill in them sense of belonging in the project’s implementation.