ABSTRACT

 Factors associated with the transfer and utilization of the sweetpotato flour for confection were evaluated in the South East Agro-Ecological zone. By purposive and random sampling, two hundred and forty(240) end users and one hundred and twenty (120) Extension agents were selected from four zones in Imo and Ebonyi States. Well structured questionnaire was used to elicit data from the respondents. The data were analyzed using both the descriptive statistics and the likert type 5-point scale. Specifically the probit model statistics were employed to determine the influence of socio-economic, socio-cultural, technical factors, organizational factors and technology transfer determinants on transfer and utilization of the sweetpotato flour for confection technology. Results revealed that 50% of the end-users were not aware of the technology. Socio-economic factors such as age, (0.0876) household size, (0.02085) credit (0.23477); Technological factors such as compatibility (0.16630) and quality (0.1730) enhanced utilization. Technology transfer determinants such as age (0.02649), education (0.11032) salary (0.26644) participation in farmers field activities (1:35489) fund (0.18141) traveling (0.18765) and visit to National Root Crops Research Institute (0.31773) were determinants that enhanced transfer of technology in the study area. Husband and wife jointly making decision in the household hampers utilization. Social status had a negative influence on utilization. Organizational factors such as conduct with farmer (0.07173%) in-service-training (0.04944), salary (0.07173) and manpower (O.04944) enhanced technology transfer. Utilization level was moderate where three out of the five products were in use. The technology had not been in full utilization in the study area. It was recommended that the technology should be re-evaluated for improvement enlightenment campaign should be carried out, and efforts should be made to enhance educational level of the end-user by both the government and rural xvii -- development agencies. Young, energetic and educated extension agents should be recruited into the system