MINNA INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

DIAGNOSIS AND INSTRUCTIONAL INTERVENTIONS FOR JUNIOR SECONDARY STUDENTS WITH DYSGRAPHIA IN GEOMETRIC CONSTRUCTION TASK

2025-03-10T00:53:54+00:00

The study was conducted to enhance the academic performance of junior secondary students with dysgraphia in the Bida local government area of Niger State. The intervention focused on diagnosing and remedying their learning difficulties. The study used a quasi-experimental design with two groups: control and experimental. The sample included 81 students (experimental: 38, control: 43). Dysgraphia was identified in two stages using the Diagnostic Dysgraphia Test (2DT) and General Cognitive Ability Test (GCAT), validated by three experts in mathematics education (reliability: r = 0.75). The experimental group received reciprocal peer-tutoring (RPT), while the control group followed conventional teaching methods (CTM). Descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, mean difference, mean gain) analyzed the data and answered research questions, while ANCOVA tested the null hypothesis. Results showed
that RPT improved the academic performance of dysgraphia learners compared to CTM. Gender did not significantly affect dysgraphia performance. The recommendation is for mathematics teachers to incorporate RPT when teaching students with dysgraphia.

ASSESSMENT OF SILHOUETTE AND GESTURAL METAL SCULPTURES IN THE WORK OF PROF. KENNETH OKOLI: A HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE

2025-03-10T01:14:30+00:00

This historical review examines the evolution and significance of silhouette and gestural metal sculptures by Professor Kenneth Okoli, a prominent figure in contemporary African sculpture. Prof. Ken’s innovative approach to sculpture, particularly his mastery in using metal to create dynamic, expressive forms, has positioned him as a transformative artist in the field. This study traces the development of his unique style, exploring the historical and artistic influences that shaped his works. It delves into how his sculptures embody a fusion of traditional African aesthetics and modern sculptural techniques, with a focus on the expressive potential of silhouette and gestural forms. By analyzing the use of metal as a medium, the review highlights Prof. Ken’s exploration of movement, abstraction, and how these elements serve to convey deeper cultural narratives and personal expression. The paper also situates Prof. Ken’s work
within the broader context of African and global sculpture movements, examining his contribution to contemporary art and his lasting influence on future generation of artists.

FACTORS AFFECTING THE CULTIVATION AND AVAILABILITY OF YAMS (Dioscorea spp.), IN NIGER STATE NORTH-CENTRAL NIGERIA

2025-03-10T01:27:54+00:00

Yams (Dioscorea spp.) is one of the major food crops grown in Niger State. The crop is grown for its nutritive, economic and social benefits. In spite of all these importance, research on factors militating against its cultivation has been inadequate. Against this background, a survey was conducted on factors affecting it cultivation and availability of the crop in the state. This study was conducted to investigate factors affecting cultivation and availability of the tubers in major producing areas across the state. The study was conducted in Bossso, Minna metropolis, paikoro and Shiroro Local Government Areas. Thus population of eighty (80) peasant farmers and eighty (80), Yam marketers were randomly selected from markets across the Local Government areas under investigation. Four hypothesis were formulated to guide the research work and data collected were analyzed using Chi-Square. The result revealed high cost of Yam seedlings and insecurity are significant factors affecting cultivation of Yams at (p<0.5) in Niger State and this have rejected hypothesis 1 and 2.Consequently the findings showed that seasonal variation and insecurity are significant factors hindering the availability of the tubers in Niger State with value (p<0.05), thereby rejecting hypothesis 3 and 4. It is recommended among others
that farmers should form cooperative society to enable them obtain subsidized loans for individual, group and government to purchase Yam seeds to boost production and subsequent availability in the State and country at large. In the same vein Government should reinforce robust security in production areas to counter the activities of criminals constituting insecurity.

INTEGRATION OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY FOR EFFECTIVE TEACHING AND LEARNING IN BASIC AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN NIGER STATE

2025-03-10T01:35:25+00:00

This paper investigates how the integration of ICT tools can enhance educational outcomes and addresses the challenges faced by educators and students in utilizing these technologies in Niger state focusing schools with ICT tools and non-ICT. Through the existing literatures, the benefits and challenges associated with integrating ICT into science education especially in basic and secondary schools were enumerated. Two research questions and hypotheses were formed which guided the investigation. One of these is whether the integration of ICT affects student engagement and academic performance in basic and secondary schools in Niger State? That, the integration of ICT tools in teaching significantly improves teachers’ preparedness and performance in basic and secondary schools in Niger State. Mixed-methods of surveys, interviews, and classroom observations were adopted and data were garnered from 200 teachers, 500 students and 50 school administrators across various schools in the Niger state.
Purposive, stratified and simple random samplings were adopted. The results were presented in Means and standard deviations, independent sample t-tests to compare the above stated variables against those who do not have at 0.05 significance level. The Mean aggregate in schools with ICT 3.8 against non-ICT schools 3.0 revealed that ICT significantly improves student engagement, understanding, and retention of information. The paper therefore, recommended for policy makers, educators, and stakeholders to invest in ICT infrastructure, provide comprehensive training programmes for teachers, and develop strategies to ensure equitable access to technology.

EXPLORING THE APPLICATION OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN STRENGTHENING THE INTEGRITY OF SCHOOL-BASED ASSESSMENTS IN INDUSTRIAL AND TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION PROGRAMMES

2025-03-10T01:41:20+00:00

This study aimed to explore the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in strengthening the integrity of school-based assessments in Industrial and Technology Education (ITE) Programmes. It employed a cross-sectional descriptive survey design. North-Central Nigeria was selected as the study region due to its concentration of higher institutions offering ITE Programmes. The population comprised 600 individuals: 300 ITE lecturers, 200 EdTech professionals specializing in AI for education, and 100 IT support staff at universities offering ITE. Using stratified random sampling, a sample of 240 participants was selected, ensuring representation from all categories within the population. Data collection was conducted through a self-developed Likert scale questionnaire containing 20 items evenly distributed between the two research questions. The instrument was validated by three experts. Cronbach's Alpha confirmed the reliability of the instrument, yielding indices of .89 and .92 for the two sections, indicating high internal consistency. Data was collected electronically via Google Forms, with a 95% response rate. Descriptive statistical methods including mean, mode, and standard
deviation were used to analyze the data. The findings revealed potential AI technologies such as AI-powered proctoring tools, machine learning algorithms, and AI-based plagiarism detection tools. Implementation strategies include regular teacher training, stakeholder collaboration, infrastructure investment, establishing feedback loops, pilot testing before full-scale implementation, curriculum integration, and strategies addressing resistance to AI. Based on these findings, the study recommended that curriculum developers of ITE programmes should tailor AI tools to specific student needs and integrate them into the curriculum as well as
University administrators offering ITE programmes should enter into collaborations with AI tech firms or experts to deliver effective training for ITE lecturers in using AI technologies.

EXPLORING IDENTITY AND SUSTAINABILITY: YINKA SHONIBARE’S ART AS A CATALYST FOR PROMOTING CONTEMPORARY ART IN NIGERIA

2025-03-10T01:45:44+00:00

This study investigates the sculptural artworks of Yinka Shonibare, a British-Nigerian artist known for his exploration of themes related to colonialism, race, identity, and the complexities of cultural hybridity. The research also seeks to examine and deepen our understandings of his sculptural works, particularly those involving clothing. Some of his outstanding works were taken and analyzed for better understanding. Some artists, authors and scholars whose works or writings could serve as useful references for researching Shonibare’s arts were consulted. These artists and scholars have aided this study by providing firsthand information with a range of
theoretical, historical, and cultural frameworks that help the research to explore the depth and complexity of Yinka Shonibare’s artworks, particularly in relation to post-colonialism, identity, and cultural hybridity. For more on specific exploration of the artist works, Nigerian and African scholars, art critics, and curators, are additional authors who have directly or indirectly engaged with Yinka Shonibare’s artwork or whose work connects to the themes they explore, such as post-colonialism, identity, and the African diaspora. These scholars from Nigeria and Africa at large bring critical perspectives on African art, colonialism, and identity that resonate with the themes in Yinka Shonibare’s artworks. Their literatures and curatorial contributions help to contextualize Shonibare use of African and diaspora symbols, his engagement with post-colonial histories, make his works to be historic and famous.

PERCEPTION OF STUDENTS AND LECTURERS ON THE ROLE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT) IN THE TEACHING AND LEANING OF ECONOMICS IN NIGER STATE COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, MINNA.

2025-03-10T01:49:51+00:00

This paper examined Perception of Students and Lecturers on the Role of ICT in the Teaching and Leaning of Economics in College of Education, Minna: A Roadmap for Sustainable Development. A cross-sectional survey design was adopted. This study was guided byone research question with corresponding objective and hypothesis. The instrument for data collection was a researcher-developed questionnaire titled "Students' Perception of the Role of ICT in Teaching and Learning Economics Questionnaire (SPRTLEQ)." A simple random technique was employed to select 354 samples from the targeted population of 733. The instruments underwent content and criterion validity checks by two experts from the Economics and English Departments at the College of Education, Minna. Their suggestions were used in selecting the items. The test-retest method was used, and the reliability index of the instrument was 0.76, calculated using Cronbach's alpha. The collected data were analysed using the Pearson Correlation Coefficient approach for the null hypothesis at a 0.75 level of significance. The findings signify that the use of ICT enhances students' academic performance in teaching and learning of economics. Based on the findings, recommendations include incorporating ICT into tertiary education syllabi by curriculum designers to prepare students for the digital age.

ASSESSMENT OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CURRICULUM OF MOTOR VEHICLE MECHANICS’ WORK AT TECHNICAL COLLEGES LEVEL IN NIGER STATE, NIGERIA.

2025-03-10T02:09:20+00:00

The study assessed the implementation of the curriculum of Motor Vehicle Mechanics’ Work at technical college levels in Niger State. The descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. Two research questions guided the study. The population for the study consists of 21 administrators of technical colleges and 28 motor vehicle mechanics work (MVMW) teachers in all the technical colleges in Niger State. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection. The reliability coefficient of the instrument was found to be 0.75.The data collected were analyzed using mean, standard deviation for the research questions. The findings of this study revealed that the objectives of motor vehicle mechanics work curriculum (MVMWC) were adequate in producing competent and enterprising motor vehicle mechanics; but instructions in technical colleges today remained more of theory than practical. Hence, it was recommended that both the teachers of MVMW and instructors should employ teaching strategies that engage students in high-level cognitive activities which stimulate thought, and practical work during curriculum implementation. Finally, it was also recommended that the curriculum of motor vehicle maintenance work should be revised and updated by National Board for Technical Education regularly.

ADOPTING PROBLEM-BASED LEARNING FOR BUILDING TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS IN HIGHER EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS OF DEVELOPING COUNTRIES

2025-03-10T02:20:07+00:00

Problem-based learning has been effectively adopted in many developed countries. In developing countries, however, there are still restraints and challenges to adopting this studentcentered instructional approach for Building Technology (BT) programs in many Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) despite the skill gap. PBL is a student-centered approach that inspires students to study independently and apply their skills in solving real-world problems in an appropriate and realistic context. Few literatures have explored the adoption of PBL in HEIs in developing countries. Therefore, this paper provides an overview of PBL currently in HEIs of developing countries and convincing evidence for its effectiveness in instruction. The paper offers the basis for adopting PBL in BT instruction in HEIs of developing countries. The paper also describes a potential model of implementation, identifies some challenges facilitators may encounter during the application, and provides strategies for effective adoption, including the integration of real-world problems, collaborative group work, and the training of facilitators to guide students appropriately. Additionally, it provides specific recommendations for enhancing the adoption of PBL in HEIs of developing countries. As educational paradigms shift to embrace modern, student-driven methodologies, this analysis highlights the urgent need for HEIs in developing countries to adopt PBL strategies, which can significantly enhance both teaching and learning outcomes, prepare students for complex problem-solving, and ultimately, better equip them to meet societal and labor market demands.

EFFECTS OF SCAFFOLDING AND CONVENTIONAL INSTRUCTIONAL METHODS ON FEMALE STUDENTS’ ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT AND MATHEMATICS ANXIETY IN GEOMETRY IN AGAIE LOCAL GOVERNMENT, NIGER STATE.

2025-03-10T02:38:58+00:00

This study aimed to assess the effect of scaffolding and conventional instructional methods on female student’s academic achievement and mathematics anxiety in geometry. The study employed a quasi-experimental design of pre-test and post-test control design. The population of the study consisted of 443 SSII female students’ distribution over 8 public schools in Agaie Local Government Area of Niger State, Nigeria. 130 SSII students selected from two schools using multistage sampling formed the sample of the study. Data were collected through four instruments: Scaffolding lesson model for the experimental group, Conventional lesson model
for control group, Geometry Achievement Test (GAT) and Mathematics Anxiety Questionnaire (MAQ). The instruments were validated by three experts from IBBUL and FUT Minna. The reliability index of (GAT) and (MAQ) are 0.76 and 0.86 respectively. Research questions were answered through mean, standard deviation and mean difference, while t-test at 0.05 level of significance was used to analyse the null hypotheses. The findings revealed that female students exposed to scaffolding instruction method have higher mean score than those exposed to conventional instructional method. Based on the results, it is recommended among others, the
teaching of mathematics especially geometry incorporate scaffolding instruction. Similarly, this method should be incorporated in the methodology and micro- teaching courses of pre-service teachers.

IMPACT OF GAMIFIED LEARNING STRATEGY IN IMPROVING SCIENTIFIC INQUIRY SKILLS IN SCIENCE EDUCATION SUBJECTS

2025-03-10T02:48:19+00:00

This study investigated the transformative role of virtual laboratories in science education, focusing on their impact on student learning, engagement, and skill development. Virtual laboratories, utilizing advanced simulations and interactive interfaces, offer students the ability to conduct experiments in a controlled, flexible, and cost-effective environment. These platforms allow for interactive experimentation without the constraints of time, cost, or safety concerns typically associated with traditional laboratories. The research employed a mixedmethods approach, combining a comprehensive review of existing literature with empirical data
from student surveys, interviews, and performance assessments across diverse educational settings. Results indicate that virtual labs significantly enhanced accessibility, especially for underserved populations, and improved conceptual understanding through dynamic visualizations. Furthermore, students demonstrated increased critical thinking and problemsolving skills as they engaged with complex scenarios and manipulated variables in real-time. However, the study also highlighted challenges, including the lack of tactile engagement and the potential over-reliance on technology, which may limit the development of hands-on skills. In response to these concerns, the study advocates for a blended approach, integrating both virtual and traditional laboratory experiences to optimize learning outcomes while preserving the authenticity of physical experimentation.

EFFECTS OF DIFFERENT LEVELS OF NITROGEN FERTILIZER ON HEIGHT, STEM DIAMETER AND LEAF AREA OF HYBRID MAIZE (Zea mays L.) (FARZ-27) VARIETIES.

2025-03-10T02:59:24+00:00

A field trial was conducted to determine the effects of different Nitrogen rates on height and stem diameter of hybrid maize (zea may L) at Niger State College of education teaching and research farm Minna, Niger State during 2024 growing season. Four nitrogen treatments (T1 control, T2 60, T3 120, T4 160 and T5 180 kg ha-1) and a control were studied in this trial. The application of N fertilizer significantly affected maize height, leaf area and stem diameter of maize plant. Applying 180 kg ha-1 and 160 kg ha-1 of nitrogen resulted in the highest plant heights of 210.23 cm and 199.78 cm, respectively. The maximum stem diameter (3.68 cm) was observed with the highest nitrogen dose (180 kg ha-1), followed by 160 kg ha-1 (3.51 cm) and 120 kg ha-1 (3.46 cm). The lowest stem diameter (2.58 cm) occurred with no fertilizer application, while a minimal nitrogen dose of 60 kg ha-1 resulted in a slightly larger diameter
(2.89 cm). These findings suggest that increasing nitrogen levels (60, 120, 160, and 180 kg ha-1) to an optimal range can enhance plant height, stem diameter, and leaf area in hybrid maize (Zea mays L) (FARZ-27).

THE EFFECTS OF ORGANIC FERTILIZER ON THE GROWTH, YIELD AND NUTRITIONAL QUALITY OF SPINACH (Amaranthus hybridus)

2025-03-10T03:07:09+00:00

There is a shift towards organic fertilizers as a result of high-priced inorganic fertilizers. The paper evaluates the effects of organic fertilizers on the growth, yield and nutritional status of spinach. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with six treatments and three replications. The treatments were T1 (No manure/fertilizer), T2 (cow dung), T3 (goat and sheep manure), T4 (poultry droppings, T5 (rabbits droppings) and T6 (NPK 15:15:15) respectively. Manures application (15t/ha) were done before nursery, after transplanting and two weeks after transplanting. Amongst the various organic manures, poultry manure produced significantly higher (p<0.5) plant growth, yield (18.2t/ha) and proximate composition. Therefore, planting spinach with poultry manure under moderate rainfall enhances the growth and yield of spinach.

CHARACTERIZATION AND CLASSIFICATION OF HYDROMORPHIC SOILS AT MAKUSIDI IN NIGER STATE, NIGERIA

2025-03-10T03:36:16+00:00

This study was carried out to characterize and classify the hydromorphic soils at Makusidi in Wushishi Local Government Area of Niger State. Two pedons were dug representing upper and lower slopes of the field which were designated as MKS1 and MKS2 respectively. The pedons were described following the FAO guidelines for soil description. Soil samples were collected from each identified natural horizon and taken to the laboratory for analysis. Results revealed that MKS1 had very dark grayish brown (10YR3/2) at the topmost horizon and a very dark gray (10YR 5/1) at the subsoil. MKS2 had light brownish gray (10YR 6/2) overlying grayish brown (10YR 5/2) at the subsurface. Sand content ranged from 580 to 740 g/kg in MKS1and 430 to 920 g/kg in MKS2 silt ranged from 30 - 160 g/kg in MKS1 and 10- 160 g/kg in MKS2. Clay ranged from 170 to 270 g/kg in MKS1 and 70 to 410 g/kg in MKS2. The two pedons were slightly acidic with low organic carbon and available phosphorus contents and total nitrogen was irregularly distributed from low to medium down the two profiles, but exchangeable Ca, Mg, K and Na were found to be high at both study sites. The soils were classified under the
USDA Soil Taxonomy as Typic Endoaqualfs (MKS1) and Arenic Epiaqualfs (MKS2) and correlated with WRB system as Stagnic Lixisols (Clayic) and Stagnic Lixisols (Arenic) respectively.

CREATING OPPORTUNITIES FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATHEMATICS (STEM)

2025-03-10T03:50:05+00:00

The inclusion and empowerment of persons with disabilities in the field of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) are crucial for fostering innovation and creating a diverse and equitable society. Against this background this paper highlighted opportunities for persons with disabilities in STEM. The paper discussed the importance of creating equitable environments and providing appropriate resources to empower individuals with disabilities to thrive in these key disciplines. While recognizing/identifying some challenges that persons with disabilities might face in pursuing careers in STEM, the author
emphasized the need for collaborative efforts between educational institutions, employers of labour, and policymakers. Furthermore, the author recommended implementing inclusive educational practices, starting from early childhood education to higher institutions. This approach involves providing accessible learning materials, leveraging assistive technologies, and adapting teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning styles. It also emphasized promoting STEM education as an inclusive and accessible field for individuals with disabilities, eliminating the stigma often associated with disabilities in STEM.

THE IMPACT OF COVID-19 LOCKDOWN ON PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND WELL-BEING AMONG ACTIVE ADULTS IN NIGERIA

2025-03-10T04:15:54+00:00

Measures aiming at containing the Corona-virus disease (Covid-19), include isolation, social distancing, and quarantine. Quarantine and other lockdown instruments were aimed at reducing the number of Covid-19 infections and deaths. It is reasonable to assume that lockdown leads to reduced levels of physical activity in the general population. Potential detrimental health effects of lockdown, such as psychological distress and physical inactivity induced maladaptation must be addressed. The aim of this paper was to review harmful effects of limited physical activity on mental and physical health due to social distancing and quarantine. Harmful effects of limited physical activity on mental and physical health due to social distancing and quarantine and to highlight the effects of simple physical activity regimes, with a special emphasis on acute effects. The paper provide recommendations for evidence based physical activities that are feasible even in lockdown situations, and that hold position to help patients cope with the situation and which build the base for physical activity counseling in Covid-19 lockdown times.

ASSESSING THE AWARENESS AND AVAILABILITY OF NATIONAL HEALTH INSURANCE SCHEME SERVICES AMONG TERTIARY INSTITUTION STAFF IN NORTHERN STATES, NIGERIA

2025-03-10T04:30:28+00:00

This paper assessed the awareness, availability, utilization, impact and satisfaction of National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) services among staff of tertiary institutions in Northern States, Nigeria. Ex post-facto research design was used on a sample size of 764
respondents. To achieve the stated objective, the researchers developed questionnaire as an instrument for data collection. The population of the study comprised of 64,986 academic and non-academic, male and female staff of tertiary institutions in Northern States, Nigeria. The data collected were analyzed using mean scores and standard deviation, and one sample t-test statistics at 0.05 level of significance. The result showed that significant difference existed between one academic institution and the other in their satisfaction on utilization of NHIS services in Northern States. Based on the finding, the study recommended that explicit consideration should be given to the needs for equal distribution of health care services in Northern States tertiary institutions irrespective of the status of the institutions. Government should ensure effective monitoring and evaluation of the scheme to ensure satisfactory service delivery to the clients and the management and authorities of the partner clinics/hospitals should improve and let the workers utilize some services such as radiology and medical imaging diagnostic test.

INFLUENCE OF SUPERVISION ROLES OF HEADS OF HOME ECONOMICS DEPARTMENT ON LECTURERS’ PERFORMANCE IN COLLEGES OF EDUCATION NORTH-CENTRAL, NIGERIA

2025-03-10T04:40:24+00:00

This study assessed the influence of the supervision roles of Heads of the Home Economics Department on Lecturers' performance in Colleges of Education in North-Central, Nigeria. The study had three (3) objectives among which was to examine the level of influence of HODs' supervision roles on Lecturers' instructional performance in Colleges of Education in North-Central, Nigeria. Three (3) research questions were raised and a descriptive survey design was used to carry out the research. The population of the study comprised eighty-eight (88) respondents: eleven (11) HODs and seventy-seven (77) Home Economics Lecturers. The whole population was used as a sample size for the study. Two instruments titled HODs Supervision Roles Questionnaire (HSRQ) and the Lecturers' Performance Questionnaire (TPQ) constructed by the Researcher were used for data collection. The HSRQ had section A, containing 10 items to answer RQ one. TPQ had sections A and B. Each section had 10 items to answer RQ two, and RQ three. Three experts validated the instruments. The reliability coefficient of the instruments was established through the Cronbach Alfa Correlation Coefficient. The reliability index for HSRQ and TPQ instruments were 0.81 and 0.91 respectively. Eleven (11) copies of HSRQ and seventy-seven (77) copies of TPQ were administered, but eleven (11) copies of HSMRQ and sixty-six (66) copies of TPWQ were returned successfully. Mean was used to analyze all the RQs. The analysis of the responses was interpreted as the benchmark of mean 3.0. The study's findings revealed that the level of influence of HODs supervision roles had a high influence on Lecturers' instructional performance (Aggregate Mean 3.38). More so, HODs' supervision roles had a high influence on Lecturers' instructional preparation (Aggregate Mean 3.57), and delivery skills (Aggregate Mean 3.62). Based on the findings, it can be concluded that HODs' supervision roles such as planning, discussion of challenges, weekly vetting of the lesson plan, observation of instructional process, providing feedback, monitoring, and motivation influence the Lecturers' quality of instructional preparation and delivery skills. Because of the findings, the Researcher recommended among others that HODs should consistence and sustain a high level of instructional supervision roles to enhance the enthusiasm of Lecturers' instructional performance. HODs should ensure Lecturers' compliance with NCCE minimum standards,
regulations, and policies to help the Department of Home Economics maintain its accreditation and reputation.

ISOLATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF FUNGAL PATHOGENS FROM ONION SEEDLINGS

2025-03-10T04:51:33+00:00

The prevalence of fungal pathogens in agricultural crops poses significant challenges to crop production and food security worldwide. This study aimed to isolate and characterize two major fungal pathogens, Alternaria porri and Penicillium digitatum, from diseased onion (Allium cepa) seedlings. Alternaria porri, known for causing leaf blight, and Penicillium digitatum, responsible for post-harvest decay, were successfully isolated and identified based on their colony morphology, pigmentation, and growth rates. Pathogenicity tests revealed that Alternaria porri caused severe leaf blight with a disease severity score of 4.3, while Penicillium digitatum primarily affected stored onion bulbs, with a disease severity score of 3.8. Growth rates for the fungi were recorded at 10.5 mm/day and 12.0 mm/day, respectively, with optimal growth observed under temperatures between 25°C and 30°C. The findings underscore the potential for significant yield and post-harvest losses due to these pathogens, highlighting the critical need for integrated disease management strategies. Early detection, the use of resistant cultivars, and targeted fungicidal treatments are recommended to reduce crop damage and ensure food security.

INFLUENCE OF SUPER ABSORBENT POLYMER AND IRRIGATION INTERVALS ON THE PERFORMANCE OF TWO TOMATO (Solanum lycoperiscum) VARIETIES.

2025-03-10T05:05:28+00:00

Water deficit is one of the most important limiting factors in crop production, it is becoming an increasingly severe problem in many parts of the world. The growth and yield of tomato an important vegetable crop in agricultural economy and one of the most widely consumed vegetable crop in the world is often constrained by water deficit. Irrigation wtervis becoming scarce and costly, hence there is need to find a reliable water management strategy to cope with water scarcity. The addition of water-saving superabsorbent polymer (SAP) in soil can improve soil physical properties, crop growth and yield and also reduce the irrigation requirement of crops. Pot experiment trials were conducted in the Horticultural nursery site of Department of Crop Production, Federal University of Technology, Minna and the nursery site of Ministry of Forestry Buruku, Kaduna to evaluate Influence of Super Absorbent Polymer (SAP) and irrigation intervals on the performance of two tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) varieties during the 2013 dry season. It was a 5 x 4 x 2 factorial experiment laid out in a completely randomized design (CRD) and replicated three times. The treatments were five rates of polymer (0, 1, 2, 3 and 4 g kg-1), four irrigation intervals (daily, 2days, 4days, and 6days intervals) and two tomato varieties (Roma VF and UC82B). Result showed that Roma VF produced taller plants, higher number of fruits and fruit yield than UC82B while the measured parameters were increased with polymer rate of 3g kg-1. Irrigating at 2days interval also had significant effect on the plant height, stem girth, fruit weight and yield. Based on the findings of this study, it is recommended that for higher growth and yield of tomato farmers should plant Roma VF with the application of 2g kg-1 or 3g kg-1 polymer into the soil irrigated at 2days intervals.