Information Services chiefs from the central office and training centers were divided into groups to come up with harmonized standards and procedures. (photo by Franco Gabriel Borlagdan)
QUEZON CITY, Metro Manila— To ensure that operational processes are consistent from the central office to the training centers, the Information Services (IS) group of the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) convened for a workshop to update and standardize their procedures in line with ISO requirements.
Sixteen IS chiefs from the training centers and 13 Information Services Division (ISD) staff attended the activity. This involved sharing of IS-related audit results, workshops on aligning the Quality Objectives and risk assessment plans, and revising ISO procedures and forms for the different IS programs, projects, and services.
By the end of the workshop, improved and new procedures and forms were developed for school-on-the-air, e-Learning, Techno Gabay Program, library services, and knowledge products development.
In January 2018, the ATI obtained its ISO 9001:2015 certification. Under this, the Institute has adopted risk-based thinking for Quality Management System requirements and on the understanding of the organization and its context, particularly external and internal issues relevant to its purpose and strategic direction.
During the opening program, ATI Director Alfredo Aton spoke to the IS representatives present at the workshop. He reiterated the directives of Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel Piñol in terms of expanding the reach of the Institute’s information services. This includes the development of radio programs nationwide; distribution of localized information, education, and communication materials in bus terminals, airports, and other public areas; and briefing of farmers about the land suitability map during training activities.
“Continue to build a strong online presence for the ATI, especially on social media,” he added.
ISD chief Antonieta Arceo was grateful for the results of the workshop which enabled the IS group to have a harmonized set of standards and procedures. With this, she hoped that the IS workforce will continue to improve how work is done in their respective areas.
The activity was held last February 11-15 in this city.