The Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center 1 (ATI-RTC 1) highly recognizes the importance of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) as it plays numerous key roles in the delivery of Agriculture and Fisheries Extension (AFE) services. This lead ATI-RTC 1 in conducting two (2) batches of Training Course on Basic Computer and Internet Literacy for extension associates, particularly the Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) and farmer-cooperators of Learning Sites for Agriculture (LSAs).

The said training aims to make the extension associates become more effective and efficient pillar of the extension system. This is through brushing up their knowledge and skills on the use of basic computer applications in preparing their presentations, reports, write-ups and other daily operations. Advanced and new ICT-based tools in agriculture and the different components of the online extension or e-extension program of the Institute were also introduced to the participants to keep them abreast and equipped with ICT trends in extension.

A total of 21 AEWs from Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte graduated in the first batch conducted on April 5-7, 2022 at ATI-RTC 1 Satellite Training Center, Batac City, Ilocos Norte, while 14 AEWs and 3 farmer-leaders from Pangasinan and La Union finished the second batch held on April 19-21, 2022 at ATI-RTC 1, Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan.

The training revolved in lecture-discussions, hands-on demonstrations, and workshops on how to operate computer and how to use basic computer applications (e.g., microsoft word, microsoft excel, microsoft powerpoint, microsoft publisher). The participants were also taught on the basic use of internet, ICT-based tools in agriculture, and e-learning. At the end of the workshop sessions, each of the participants were able to finish e-learning courses, produce and present outputs using Microsoft software.

“Before I attend this training, the only thing I know is to turn on and off computer but after three days, I learned these computer applications which are really big help to me because I can apply in my work and I can share these skills with others. In general, I find the training very interesting and helpful and I am grateful to be one of the participants of this training.”, expressed by Mr. Gray Bautista, AEW from LGU-San Fabian, Pangasinan, during the closing program of the second batch.