Impact of Online Agro-technology Diploma Program and Its Future Perspectives for Improving Socio-economic Well-Being of Farmers in Sri Lanka

Vidanapathirana, N.P.; Nelka, S.A.P.; Hirimburegama, K.; Kim, Jae Ho

doi:10.1007/978-3-642-32850-3_7

Cited by 6 publications

(3 citation statements)

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“…It should be an amendment with specific consideration of the needs of rural women. It could be the potential to improve the status of rural women by increasing their incomes and participation in rural enterprises (Campbell, 2013;Fletcher, 1998;Vidanapathirana et al, 2012).…”

Section: Comprehensive Evaluationmentioning

confidence: 99%

A revisit of National Science & Technology Policy for the development of small and medium enterprises in Sri Lanka

Piyumal

Samarakoon

Hirimburegama

2021

KDU J. Multidisc. Stud.

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Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) played a crucial part in the Sri Lankan economy and acknowledged as the country's backbone for industrial growth. However, the recent studies in this sector exhibit that Sri Lanka has not achieved the desired level needed in the modern world compared with other countries, especially within the region. This study examined and reviewed extensive literature, gathering information from experts in the national economic development and science and technology innovation. That helped to identify the major challenges on the National Science & Technology Policy (NSTP) and development of Sri Lankan SMEs, including various contributions to the national economy, with the challenges faced and the initiatives and incentives offered by related authorities. There are several significant factors identified among challenges. They are; lower level of science-based technological innovation, limited skilled of human resources with less commitment, the absence of broad-based scientific knowledge, weak implementation of policies, weak commercialisation of research & indigenous knowledge, poor sustainability of natural resources, lack of expert knowledge, high-cost technology import and leverage of much technology, informal use of technology, the reluctance of rural people to integrate with new technology and hesitance to pay for the technology, lower levels of research & development facilities, a high level of international competition, a high level of private-sector interference with less government involvement, and weakness of national fund gathering and distribution.These lapses suggest that the existing policies are insufficient or may not be delivered effectively to overcome these challenges. This study makes an effort to identify the irregularities of NSTP as a positive step and propose a way forward in formulating a workable framework to upgrade SMEs in Sri Lanka that would be highly effective.

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Section: Comprehensive Evaluationmentioning

confidence: 99%

A revisit of National Science & Technology Policy for the development of small and medium enterprises in Sri Lanka

Piyumal

Samarakoon

Hirimburegama

2021

KDU J. Multidisc. Stud.

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“…Sustainability in agriculture encompasses various dimensions, including environmental stewardship, social equity, and economic viability, aiming to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. In this context, the integration of digital marketing strategies into agricultural practices has emerged as a potent tool for advancing sustainability objectives (Vidanapathirana et al, 2012). Traditionally, agriculture has been characterized by conventional practices reliant on intensive resource use, limited transparency in supply chains, and fragmented communication channels between producers and consumers.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Digital Marketing Strategies for Promoting Sustainability in Agro-Based Industries: Opportunities and Challenges

2024

IJFMR

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Scope: This paper investigates the intersection of digital marketing and sustainability within the agricultural sector, focusing on agro-based industries. It aims to delineate the role of digital marketing in addressing evolving consumer behaviors, globalization trends, and sustainability imperatives in agriculture. Objective: The primary objective is to analyze how digital marketing strategies and emerging technologies contribute to promoting sustainability in agriculture. This study seeks to identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats associated with digital marketing in agro-based industries and provide actionable recommendations for stakeholders. Approach: The research employs a comprehensive approach, including a literature review, case studies, and SWOT analysis. It examines the significance of digital marketing tools such as precision agriculture, block chain, and artificial intelligence in advancing sustainability goals. Moreover, it assesses the economic, environmental, and social dimensions of sustainability within the context of digital marketing in agriculture. Results: The study reveals that digital marketing plays a crucial role in addressing changing consumer preferences, facilitating market access, and driving innovation in agricultural practices. It identifies strengths such as wide reach and opportunities such as enhanced market access, alongside weaknesses like the digital divide and threats such as regulatory constraints. Moreover, the research highlights the transformative potential of digital marketing for promoting sustainability in agriculture. Conclusions: The findings underscore the importance of digital marketing in fostering agricultural sustainability and suggest that strategic investments in digital infrastructure, data security enhancement, and technology adoption are imperative. Moreover, collaborative learning and continuous evaluation are essential for maximizing the effectiveness of digital marketing initiatives in advancing sustainability goals. Perspectives: Looking ahead, the study emphasizes the need for ongoing research and innovation to leverage emerging technologies for sustainable agriculture. It suggests exploring new digital marketing strategies and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations to address complex sustainability challenges. Ultimately, the paper provides insights for stakeholders on harnessing the power of digital marketing to promote sustainability in agriculture effectively.

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“…This versatile approach finds applicability not only among undergraduates but also extends to specialized domains such as farmer education (Siriwardena et al, 2018;Vidanapathirana et al, 2012). While F2F learning has been the foundation of traditional university education for years, innovations such as the Distance Education Modernization Project (DEMP) in 2003, funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), brought about substantial technological resources, particularly for Online Learning in Sri Lanka (Liyanagunawardena et al, 2014).…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Freshmen's perspectives towards blended learning in Higher Education - A case study of the University of Colombo Institute for Agro-Technology and Rural Sciences

Siriwardena,

Abeywickrama,

Sandika

et al. 2023

AGRIEAST: J. Agri. Sci.

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The University of Colombo Institute for Agro-Technology and Rural Sciences has employed Blended Learning (BL) with a strong emphasis on enhanced efficiency. Analyzing students' perceptions of diverse educational methods holds paramount significance. Therefore, this research aims to comprehend the students' perspectives on the blended learning environment and their levels of satisfaction with this particular approach to learning. This survey was conducted at the University of Colombo Institute for Agro-Technology and Rural Sciences, located in Weligatta, Hambantota, Sri Lanka. The sample consisted of 100 first year undergraduates who were studying their degree program selected through simple random sampling techniques. The collection of primary data involved the distribution of a pre-tested Google Form questionnaire through the Learning Management System. The gathered information was analyzed using the SPSS statistical software package (version 26). The process included correlation matrix assessment, regression, and frequency analysis to understand variable relationships. The majority favoured blended learning, especially through assignment activities, while many preferred blended-mode courses. Core hypotheses focused on positive links between student-instructor interaction, resource availability, course objective completion, and student satisfaction. All hypotheses strongly agreed (p < 0.005). Understanding students' viewpoints regarding various pedagogical approaches is of paramount importance within higher education

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Impact of Online Agro-technology Diploma Program and Its Future Perspectives for Improving Socio-economic Well-Being of Farmers in Sri Lanka

Cited by 6 publications

References 1 publication

A revisit of National Science & Technology Policy for the development of small and medium enterprises in Sri Lanka

A revisit of National Science & Technology Policy for the development of small and medium enterprises in Sri Lanka

Digital Marketing Strategies for Promoting Sustainability in Agro-Based Industries: Opportunities and Challenges

Freshmen's perspectives towards blended learning in Higher Education - A case study of the University of Colombo Institute for Agro-Technology and Rural Sciences

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