In the pursuit of cultivating newly hired Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) as effective and competent field extensionists, the Agricultural Training Institute - Regional Training Center I (ATI-RTC I) capacitates them with both functional and technology-based competencies through relevant training programs to include the Training of Trainers on Project Proposal Development for AEWs. This training was conducted from May 22-26, 2023, at ATI-RTC I in Tebag East, Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan as the third phase of the Learning Extension in Agriculture and Fisheries (LEAF) program with 25 participants coming from the different Local Government Units of Region 1.
The AEWs underwent the first phase, which involved a course on Extension Delivery Systems aimed at instilling the fundamentals and concepts of extension work. The second phase, known as Scaling-up Extension Endeavors towards Development and Sustainability (SEEDS) in Agriculture, involved deploying the AEWs to farming communities for full experiential learning, focused reflection, and skill development in conducting community needs assessments.
This phase spanned for five days, focused on building a comprehensive understanding of project proposal development, encompassing essential aspects such as needs assessment, project design, monitoring and evaluation, budgeting, and resource mobilization. With a participatory and interactive approach, the training sessions provided an avenue for the participants to delve and assess their actual situations and needs and in designing projects that are relevant and responsive to the needs of their communities. The experienced resource speaker shared her expertise and guided the participants in honing their skills in project proposal writing and effective communication.
"It was very informative. It is stressful but it was worth it," exclaimed by Limaya Vinnie B. Lais, an AEW from Lidlidda, Ilocos Sur. This was very informative, timely and relevant for us in the Municipal Agriculture Office”, she added.
The training did not only enhanced the participants' capacity to develop project proposals but also inspired them to become trainers themselves. This multiplier effect is expected to ripple throughout the agricultural sector, with the trained AEWs cascading their knowledge to their colleagues and fellow professionals. This collaborative approach will contribute to the dissemination of best practices and empower a larger network of extension workers to drive positive change.
As the training concluded, participants left with a sense of empowerment and determination to implement their newfound skills in their respective communities. With well-equipped AEWs at the forefront, armed with the ability to design and present impactful project proposals, the agricultural sector is poised for transformation. As funding opportunities are seized, innovative projects are implemented, and communities thrive, the ripple effect of this training will be felt far and wide, bringing about positive change in the lives of farmers and ensuring a more resilient and sustainable future for agriculture.
