STA. BARBARA, Pangasinan - It was a favorable opportunity for stakeholders to get the latest updates on the Techno-Gabay program particularly the enhancement of the Farmers’ Information and Technology Services (FITS) Centers in Region I. It was a one-day event that inspired and enlightened 43 participants to work harder in the world of agriculture and fisheries extension. It was a forward-looking primer, organized by the Information Service Section (ISS) of the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center I (ATI-RTC I) in preparation to the Techno-Gabay programs and targets for 2018. It was called the Regional Consultation Workshop for FITS Centers.
FITS managers and representatives from various local government units of Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union and Pangasinan recently came together at ATI-RTC I, Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan to learn about next year’s FITS work plan. The Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Techno-Gabay Program, the Enhancement of FITS Centers under RCM and the Use of Climate Information, and the Enhancing of Magsasaka Siyentista (MS) for Climate Information were among the topics discussed during the workshop. The activity provided an avenue to elicit ideas, insights and strategies in coming up with a successful extension delivery system in FITS Centers.
ATI-RTC I ISS Chief and Techno-Gabay Coordinator Maricel Dacapias explained the 2018 plans and targets particularly the upgrading of FITS Centers in Region I. As part of its commitment, ATI-RTC I shall enhance 24 FITS Centers in 2018. The FITS Centers who will meet the criteria and requirements for the enhancement will receive equipment and gadgets such as printers, laptops, tablets, pocket WiFis, flash drives, etc., which shall be used in their information and technology services. Thus, ATI-RTC I encouraged all FITS Centers to build up and prepare the way.
As the consultation workshop came to its conclusion, the participants looked forward to future developments and opportunities in their respective localities especially in strengthening their FITS Centers.