Cebu – Information, education and communication (IEC) has become an effective medium for bringing awareness, providing information, and making change. Hence, it is important to equip agricultural extension workers (AEWs) with knowledge and skills on how to package and develop IEC materials.

On 13 – 15 September 2021, a blended Gender-based Capability Training for AEWs: IEC Development and Infographics was conducted. The training was participated by 21 extension workers from the different local government units of Boljoon, Cebu City, City of Bogo, City of Carcar, City of Naga, Consolacion, Dalaguete, Dumanjug, Oslob, and Toledo City in Cebu province; and one from Dagohoy in Bohol. The training looked into the gender aspect where all female and male AEWs were given fair opportunity to join the training: with 13 females and 8 male completers.

Due to the surging cases of COVID-19 in Cebu, some participants opted to join the training online through the Google Meet platform. Twelve participants joined online while 9 participants were gathered in Diamond Suites and Residences, Cebu City.

In the three-day course of the training, participants learned key principles on IEC production. They also acquired basic photography skills. Further, participants were introduced to Microsoft Publisher (an entry level desktop publishing tool), and Canva (an online graphic design platform). Skills acquired by the extension workers are useful once they start to develop their respective IEC materials. On top of the IEC production learnings, participants also learned about gender and development which seeks to equalize the status and condition of and relations between women and men and how they best contribute towards development.

“I am thankful to the ATI for giving me the opportunity to be part of the training on IEC Development and Infographics training. I have learned a lot from joining virtually in this training. The resource persons have delivered the topics well where we are able to follow thoroughly. The training was well-organized thanks to the training management team who were understanding and patient. Overall, this training was very informative and insightful,” said Rosebelle D. Goco – one of the training participants.

Ma. Gracia S. Pungay, Maryjane Flor Patulilic and May Joy Luzon from the Agricultural Training Institute Regional Training Center 7 shared their expertise on the topics discussed as resource persons while Angelie B. Mencede, Arnel S. Navarro and Ulysses A. Alesna served as members of the training management team.

Should there be any clarifications or inquiries around this training, you may contact Joemelyn A. Sumagang, Project Officer, thru her email at prettieblack8910@gmail.com.