A Model for the Effective Adoption and Integration of Precision Agriculture in the Secondary School Agriculture Curriculum: Evidence from Kisii and Nyamira Counties, Kenya

Finid Onyancha George
Department of Agribusiness Management and Extension,
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology
Email: finidgeorge@gmail.com

Abstract: Precision Agriculture (PA) is a data-driven approach that enhances efficiency, productivity, and sustainability in agriculture. Despite its potential, its integration into secondary school curricula remains limited, particularly in developing countries. This study developed an empirically grounded model for the adoption and integration of PA into Competency-Based Education (CBE) in secondary schools in Kisii and Nyamira Counties, Kenya. A concurrent mixed-methods design was employed, involving 353 agriculture teachers and 254 principals. Quantitative data were analyzed using correlation and multiple regression analyses, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. Findings revealed that teacher preparedness is the strongest predictor of PA implementation (R² = 0.784), institutional resources act as enablers (R² = 0.107), and systemic barriers function as suppressors (R² = 0.095). The study proposes a three-layer adoption model integrating teacher capacity, institutional support, and systemic constraints. The model provides a scalable framework for integrating emerging agricultural technologies into secondary education systems.