AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP TRAINING AS KEY DRIVERS OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN KANO STATE

Abstract This study examines agricultural education and entrepreneurship training as key drivers of economic development in Kano State. Agriculture remains one of the major sources of livelihood in Kano State, providing employment, food supply, income generation, and raw materials for industries. However, many youths and farmers still face challenges such as inadequate practical skills, limited access to modern farming knowledge, poor business management ability, and low entrepreneurial orientation. The study therefore focuses on how agricultural education and entrepreneurship training can improve productivity, encourage self-employment, reduce unemployment, and support sustainable economic growth in the state. The study highlights the role of agricultural education in equipping individuals with knowledge of modern farming practices, crop and livestock management, agribusiness, value addition, and sustainable resource use. It also explains how entrepreneurship training helps learners and farmers develop business planning, marketing, financial management, innovation, and risk management skills. These skills are necessary for transforming agriculture from subsistence farming into a profitable business venture. The study adopts a descriptive approach to examine the relationship between agricultural education, entrepreneurship training, and economic development. It emphasizes that when youths, farmers, and graduates receive proper training, they are more likely to establish agribusinesses, create employment opportunities, increase food production, and contribute to the economic growth of Kano State. The study concludes that agricultural education and entrepreneurship training are important tools for poverty reduction, job creation, food security, and rural development. It recommends stronger government support, improved funding, practical-based agricultural training, access to credit facilities, modern farming equipment, and collaboration between educational institutions, agricultural agencies, and private investors. Keywords: Agricultural education, entrepreneurship training, economic development, agribusiness, Kano State, job creation.