An Assessment of the Impact of Taraba State University on the Livelihood of the People of ATC and its Environs, Ardo-Kola Local Government Area, Taraba State Nigeria

Abstract

In Nigeria, people’s livelihood is being threatened by developmental projects such as the establishment of educational institutions. It poses a major threat to agricultural lands and hence, human livelihood. This study examined the impact of the Taraba State University on the livelihoods of the host communities. A multistage sampling technique was used and data derived from a combination of direct field observations; interviews and questionnaire administration from randomly selected 210 respondents. The findings show that the majority of the respondents are male, married and have a generally low level of formal education with a varied but generally, low average monthly income. The study also revealed that the male respondent’s major occupation was farming, but all diversified their livelihood options into non-farming activities after the establishment of the university. The changes in the physical development and in the design and architecture of the houses were attributed to the changes in peoples’ economic status and the influx of migrants into the area. Hence, it is therefore recommended that government and microcredit institutions should assist in providing soft loan and strategic business opportunities so as to empower and improve the living conditions of the people to venture into full-size multiple livelihood options. The government should also provide infrastructures such as police post and modern market in the study area.