BAROTAC NUEVO, Iloilo - Thirty-three Agricultural Extension Workers completed the Training of Trainers on the Production of High-Quality Inbred Rice and Seeds, and Farm Mechanization last June 19-30, 2023 at INA Learning Site and Agri-farm, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo. The participants hailed from Iloilo and Guimaras.
The Rice program designed the training activity to support non-RCEF provinces, with funds allocated based on the inbred rice seeds distribution and yield performance by the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice). It aimed to improve the yield and income of the rice farmers in the non-RCEF territories.
With only one batch for 2023, the training aimed to create a pool of trainers with enhanced knowledge, skills, and attitude in order to implement the Modified Season-Long Farmer Field School on the Production of High-Quality Inbred Rice and Seeds.
The participants completed twenty-six modules during the said training. These include topics on the Rice KeyCheck, Transformation Leadership, Golden Rice, Balanced Fertilization Strategy, Farm Machinery and Operations, Financial Analysis, Seed Certification, and Effective Communication. Participants also took part in the microteaching activity and field practicum.
As part of their outputs, the graduates crafted re-entry plans in preparation for ten Farmer Field Schools (FFS). They will conduct the FFS for qualified municipalities within CY 2023. These FFS will be funded and assisted by ATI Region 6. Furthermore, the participants agreed to disseminate their acquired knowledge by conducting related activities in their respective areas.
“I would like to emphasize the positive impact that this training program has had on my personal and professional development. The knowledge and skills gained during the sessions have enhanced my understanding and equipped me to become a better extension worker, as well as a facilitator,” conveyed Noelle Allyssa Lim, AEW from Jordan, Guimaras.
Furthermore, Giedele Mique, an Agricultural Technician from the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist of Iloilo, expressed her gratitude during the Closing Program. “I would like to extend my appreciation to the entire team at the Agricultural Training Institute for their hard work and commitment to providing excellent training programs. The impact of this training will undoubtedly resonate with me/us throughout my/our career, and I am/ We are grateful for the opportunity to be a part of it,” she attested.
Iloilo falls under the 15 provinces tagged as Hybrid provinces last July 2021 and assisted by the National Rice Program.
