Libraries at University of Nebraska-Lincoln

 

Date of this Version

2019

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the information needs, sources and the challenges of information access among women in Sagnerigu district in Northern Ghana. Data was collected through questionnaire and interviews from 150 women participants in different geographical zones in the district. The study discovered that majority of women in the Sagnerigu district often need information that is related to agriculture, health and family planning issues. However, it was clear from the analysis that, the women do not have access to the required information that would alleviate poverty among them. There were two critical access gaps between the women with formal education and those without formal education. For their information needs, majority of the women trusted interpersonal networks which they are comfortable with such as family, friends, neighbours and social groupings as against formal sources of information such as internet and the newspapers which are less reliable and used. It was also revealed that access to information by women is affected by lack of skills, financial resources and the existence of rural and urban differences as well as gender and other inequalities. The study suggested the establishment of information systems and centres such as libraries, internet, information and communication technology centres by integrating it into a wider educational programmes in the district.

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