A total of 31 Agricultural Extension Workers and farm partners from Davao del Sur, Davao del Norte, and Davao City were trained by the Agricultural Training Institute - Regional Training Center XI (ATI-RTC XI) through its Training of Trainers on Farm Business School (FBS) in support of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) on August 16-30, 2024, at Villar SIPAG Farm School in Buhangin, Davao City.
The Farm Business School (FBS) was a 10-day training that offered a holistic and participatory model, aimed at enhancing the business skills and profitability of Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) and smallholder farmers. This activity also focused on improving agricultural extension services, boosting farm productivity and profitability, and supporting sustainable rural development.
The participants were equipped with various workshops and discussions related to financial literacy, bookkeeping, entrepreneurship, and farm business planning. They also conducted farm and market visits, gathering data to understand the dynamics of the market and marketing within the region. ATI-RTC XI Center Director, Ms. Alicia Rose D. Nebreja opened the activity with an emphasis on giving back to the community.
"You are not here to just learn about this training, but also to train farmers in your localities and encourage them to view farming as a business," Director Nebreja said.
The training successfully culminated on August 30, 2024, and was graced by Ms. Olivia D. Gatus, who awarded the Certificates of Completion to the participants. She served as a panelist during the business plan presentation activity where she gave special recognition to participants with the Most Viable Business Plan, Best Presenter, and Risk Taker Awards.
The trained trainers were glad to have been a part of the training because it helped them become more prepared on their endeavors
Ms. Echie Rose Nalzaro remarked, "Through this training, I am confident in encouraging and assisting our farmers to create more opportunities and generate more income from their farm enterprises."
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ATI-RTC XI Empowers AEWs and Farmers Through Farm Business School Training
Writer: Babyglace Lanit
Writer-Editor: Marvelous Camilo
