Perception and Involvement of University Students in University-Based Farm Programs as a Strategy for Achieving Campus Food Security in Ondo State

Abstract

Food insecurity is an increasing concern among university students, particularly in low- and middle-income countries such as Nigeria. This study examined the perception and involvement of university students in university-based farm programs as a strategy for improving campus food security in Ondo State. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered on undergraduate students from Adeyemi Federal University of Education, Federal University of Technology Akure, and Rufus Giwa Polytechnic. A total of 198 valid responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics, multiple response analysis, and logistic regression in SPSS version 25. The results showed that 63.6% of respondents were aware of university-based farm programs, but only 14.1% had participated in such initiatives, while awareness of active programs within campuses was low (20.7%). Most respondents (85.4%) believed that university-based farm programs could help address food insecurity, and 64.6% expressed willingness to participate if such programs were available. Logistic regression results indicated that the model was statistically significant (χ² = 20.082, p = 0.017). Field of study (p = 0.036), year of study (p = 0.017), and monthly allowance (p = 0.043) significantly influenced perception, while other variables were not significant. The study concludes that university-based farm programs have strong potential to improve campus food security, but limited awareness and participation constrain their effectiveness. Strengthening institutional support and integrating farm programs into academic structures are recommended.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18683976