EMPOWERING RURAL YOUTH THROUGH SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION, ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND PEER LEARNING IN AGRICULTURE

Abstract Empowering rural youth in agriculture through peer learning can unlock the sector’s potential and drive sustainable growth. This study, conducted in Jerash, Jordan, surveyed 54 participants aged 25 to 30 following two 30-minute interactive sessions focused on agricultural entrepreneurship. These sessions covered business planning, marketing, and sustainable farming practices. The participant group had a near-equal gender distribution and varied educational backgrounds, with many holding college degrees. The analysis revealed that education level significantly affected participants' pre-session knowledge, and there was a strong positive correlation between pre-session knowledge and post-session attitudes toward agricultural entrepreneurship. Interestingly, age did not have a notable influence on these attitudes. The study also found gender disparities in post-session knowledge scores. While education level did not significantly affect participants’ intentions to start an agricultural business, age positively correlated with post-session knowledge scores, particularly after the sessions. These findings emphasize the importance of educational diversity, targeted learning programs, and the role of prior knowledge in shaping attitudes toward entrepreneurship. The study also draws attention to gender disparities and the influence of socioeconomic factors on education, underscoring the need for inclusive strategies to empower rural youth in agriculture and promote sustainable growth.