Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center XI Center Director, Ms. Alicia Rose D. Nebreja, participated in the National Academy of Science and Technology's (NAST) Focus Group Discussion on the adoption of appropriate technologies in rural industries on July 16, 2024, at The Lanang Suites, Agdao, Davao City, focusing on the cacao, cassava, and abalone sectors.
The National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) is the highest recognition and scientific advisory body of the Philippines under the Department of Science and Technology. CD Nebreja's involvement highlighted the critical role of ATI-RTC XI in fostering technological advancements and best practices in agriculture.
The event highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts between research institutions and training centers as the discussion aimed to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability, particularly in the Davao region. Her participation underscored the commitment of ATI-RTC XI to advance agricultural technologies and practices that benefit local farmers and industries.
The FGD, led by Academician Roel R. Suralta, was part of the NAST Special Concerns Program Technical Working Group (TWG) on Targeting the Appropriate Technological Maturity of Rural Industries. The session's primary goal was to gather data from stakeholders, identify best practices, and highlight constraints and opportunities in adopting production and post-harvest technologies. These insights are expected to enhance the supply chain of the selected commodities—cacao, cassava, and abalone—and provide recommendations for improving technological maturity in rural industries.
The event commenced with welcome remarks from Ms. Mayan Jane J. Inni, Assistant Regional Director for Development and Innovation Division, Department of Science and Technology Region XI. The breakout sessions were facilitated by esteemed academicians Agnes C. Rola, Irene R. Tanzo, and Cecilia P. Reyes, who guided the discussions and ensured that valuable insights were captured.
During the FGD, participants engaged in in-depth discussions on several key themes. These included the need for better access to technology, enhanced training programs for farmers, and supportive policy frameworks that can drive the adoption of new technologies. The discussions aimed to develop localized solutions tailored to the unique conditions of Davao’s rural industries, ensuring that the strategies proposed are both practical and effective.
The FGD concluded with plenary presentations where participants shared their findings and recommendations. These will inform future policy proposals and strategic initiatives aimed at developing rural industries. The event underscored NAST's commitment to integrating scientific and technological advancements into rural development to enhance productivity and sustainability.
Ms. Nebreja's participation reflects ATI-RTC XI's dedication to supporting agricultural innovation and its ongoing efforts to collaborate with key stakeholders in the sector. By participating in such initiatives, ATI-RTC XI continues to play a vital role in advancing the agricultural sector in the Davao region and beyond, ensuring that farmers have access to the latest technologies and best practices to improve their productivity and livelihoods.
