Application of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Agriculture: A Case of Women Farmers in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Summary The role of women in the growth and development of agriculture in Sri Lanka has been increasing considerably. However, inadequate attention has been devoted to the use of information and communication technology (ICT) by Sri Lankan women farmers. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to explore the application of ICT in agriculture by women farmers in the Imbulpe Divisional Secretariat (DS) Division in Sri Lanka. The primary data used in the study were collected from a total of 230 women farmers in the study area from March to July 2019, using a pre-tested, self-administered questionnaire survey. Moreover, focus group discussions and participatory observations were also conducted. The results obtained indicate that the majority of the women farmers considered were middle-aged and married, belonging to families with 4-6 members. Most of them had received education up to a junior secondary level. Their monthly total average income was 24,000 LKR. The below mentioned ICT equipment were commonly used by the women farmers for agricultural purposes: television (51.5%), the radio (43.9%) and mobile phones (52.1%). The use of personal computers, the internet and CD/DVDs was at lower levels. Although they were found to use ICT mostly for day-to-day activities, the application of ICT in their agricultural activities was fairly low. However, most of them expressed the desire to learn about ICT. According to the regression analysis conducted, a positive and statistically significant relationship was established between the farm size and respondents’ ICT literacy. Furthermore, a positive and moderately significant relationship was found between the respondents’ educational level and ICT use. High initial costs and the lack of comprehensive knowledge about ICT equipment maintenance were the major challenges they had encountered. Admittedly, as the women farmers considered apply ICT to a certain level, their use of ICT in agriculture should be further enhanced. Therefore, supplying useful ICT equipment to Sri Lankan women farmers at concession prices, accompanied by an awareness program on the use and maintenance of such equipment, would be highly beneficial.