Initao, Misamis Oriental---The implementation of the Farmer Scientist Training Program (FSTP) intensifies integration of agricultural research and development that seeks to help poor corn farmers grow multiple crops and livestock in their farms for an increased income. With that in mind, the center through its Career Development Management Section (CDMS) organized a Farmer Scientist Refresher Training Course.

The FSTP Training Program provides farmers direct contact with agricultural experts and scientists who will help them improve their technical and scientific capabilities to grow corn and other crops using appropriate technologies. It aims to strengthen the research and extension capabilities of LGUs and SUCs so that they can render better services to their clientele. It will also enhance the farmers’ scientific knowledge technologies on corn-based farming system and leadership skills as many of them will be more active in community involvement.

One of the Resource Persons (RPs) from the FSTP UPLB Team, Anecito M. Anwada initiated the mentoring and coaching of the 19 farmer scientists on Land Preparation, Corn-based Farming System and Community Organizing.

Also, the FSTP has also demonstrated the Integrated Research & Development with Extension Programs in partnerships with farmers as the immediate end-users of the technologies.

The FSTP program is anchored on Executive Order 710 signed by then President Gloria M. Arroyo on February 27, 2008 mandating a nationwide adoption of corn-based Farmer-Scientists RDE Training Program for sustainable agricultural development to liberate poor farmers from poverty and hunger through a unified, synchronized and adequate extension delivery system of necessary support services.

The refresh course transpired on October 21-23, 2019 at the Buhian Diversified Farm in Apas, Initao, Misamis Oriental. (with reports from Noriel Kris O. Santillan, Corn Focal Person and Training Specialist-II)