The first phase of the Farmer-Scientists Training Program (FSTP) was officially launched in a series of ceremonies held across three sites in the Cordillera Administrative Region.
The FSTP Phase I kicked-off on May 7, 2024 in Asipulo, Ifugao, followed by the launch in Mayoyao, Ifugao on May 8, and in Sta. Marcela, Apayao on May 22. These events mark the beginning of a transformative three-year training approach designed to nurture farmer-scientists.
The Farmer-Scientists Training Program aims to raise farmers' incomes and standard of living above the poverty line. It is a three-phase, integrative, and holistic approach to agricultural research, development, and extension that focuses on helping farmers who grow crops like corn, rice, vegetables, and animals in a system that produces corn to adopt sustainable and scientific farming practices.
Said program includes the processes of learning and addressing problems in farming as an enterprise through lectures, fieldwork, and the development of values for love of God, nation, and people as well as the mobilization of resources from various stakeholders.
Under the first phase, participants will set-up experimental plots of corn to compare the effects of organic fertilizers versus inorganic fertilizers, integrated pest management, varietal trials, and intercropping, among others. Cultivation of farmers’ minds for love of God, country, and people is emphasized at this point.
Government officials expressed their support for the endeavor during the launching ceremonies. They also emphasized the importance of investing in science education and fostering a culture of scientific inquiry and innovation. The leaders highlighted the potential of the FSTP not only to produce skilled scientists but also to drive economic growth, enhance national competitiveness, and address pressing social and environmental issues.
The launch events were participated by ATI-RTC-CAR Center Director Charlie C. Sagudan together with the Corn and Cassava Focal Person, UPLB staff (as the program lead), government officials from the respective municipalities, and 30 participants from each site.
The FSTP Phase I represents a significant milestone in the Philippine government's efforts to promote science and technology education and build a strong foundation for a knowledge-based economy. With the support of stakeholders from government, academia, and the private sector, the program is poised to make a lasting impact on the country's scientific landscape and inspire and attract more farmers.
As the FSTP participants begin their training journey, hopes are high that they will emerge as leaders, knowledge-bearers, ready to share their learnings, driving positive change and contributing to the advancement of the corn industry.
