PANABO CITY, Davao del Norte — A total of 27 Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) from various provinces and cities in the region successfully completed the Training of Trainers on Artificial Insemination (AI) for Small Ruminants held from September 23 to 27, 2024 at the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center XI (ATI-RTC XI) in Brgy. Datu Abdul.
The five-day training aimed to equip participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to conduct AI procedures effectively, promote genetic improvement, and enhance reproductive management in small ruminants across the region.
The course covered a comprehensive range of topics including an introduction to small ruminant AI, the advantages and disadvantages of AI, estrus synchronization in goats, semen collection, extension, and storage, selection criteria for does, breeding and nutrition, reproductive physiology and anatomy of goats, signs of heat, and the necessary equipment for AI procedures.
In addition to lecture and discussions, hands-on activities were conducted at two learning sites: Ge-An Dairy and Goat Farm in Brgy. Quezon, Panabo City, and the Mindanao Baptist Rural Life Center Foundation Inc. (MBRLCFI) in Bansalan, Davao del Sur. During these practical sessions, participants successfully performed AI on 31 dairy does. They focused on crucial aspects such as animal handling, feeding and nutrition, timing of insemination during the estrus cycle, and understanding the reproductive system of the doe to ensure successful AI operations.
The training was facilitated by Senior Agriculturist Omarbliss B. Dalam, PhD, from ATI-RTC XI, and Mr. Robert D. Cardinal Sr., Agriculturist II from the Provincial Agriculture Office (PAGRO) of Davao del Norte. Upon completion of the training, participants earned 11 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points, applicable to Licensed Agriculturists, Veterinarians, and Agricultural and Biosystem Engineers.
By equipping AEWs with enhanced AI skills, the initiative aims to improve the genetic quality of livestock, ultimately benefiting local farmers and contributing to the development of the livestock sector in the region.
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Contributor: Cristine A. Perez
