A REVIEW OF THE ROLE OF AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION AND EXTENSION IN PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE FARMING PRACTICES AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSCIOUSNESS AMONG RURAL YOUTHS IN NIGERIA, WITH EMPHASIS ON MAKURDI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF BENUE STATE

Abstract

This review focuses on the role of agricultural education and extension in promoting sustainable farming practices and environmental consciousness among rural youths in Nigeria, focusing on Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue state. With increasing concerns about environmental degradation and food insecurity, the need for sustainable agricultural practices has become critical, especially in rural communities where agriculture is the main livelihood. The review is aimed at assessing how agricultural education enhances awareness of sustainable techniques, identify common sustainable practices taught in schools, and by agricultural extension agentsand evaluate the influence of such education on youths’ attitudes improved farming practices and environmental protection. Findings revealed that agricultural education and extension services significantly improved s youth knowledge of sustainable practices such as crop rotation, organic farming, improved livestock , production soil conservation, and integrated pest management, animal health as well Agricultural marketing as as use of information communication technology tools Moreover, it positively influences their environmental values and farming behavior. The review concluded that integrating practical and theory-based agricultural education and interventions by extension agents is vital in promoting improved farming practices and environmentally conscious future farmers. In Makurdi local government area of Benue State It recommended increased government support, curriculum updates, and community-based agricultural extension programs to strengthen the impact of agricultural education on sustainable agricultural practices and hence food security.