DILIMAN, Quezon City— Some 13 extension education professionals from the United States (US) recently came to the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) to learn more about the different extension initiatives of the Philippine Government for the agriculture and fisheries sector. The visit was part of the International Extension Professional Development Program hosted by the University of the Philippines-Los Baños through the Office of International Linkages.

According to Celina Wille, International Extension Professional Development Program Leader in the Philippines, the program was initiated by an association of extension professionals in the US in 2019. It was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Utah State University with different extension education institutions globally.

Meanwhile, Dr. Anna Marie Medrano-Bahala, Associate Professor from Isabela State University, gave the historical background and overview of current socio-economic and political context of the Philippines. Moreover, ATI–Information Services Division (ISD) chief Antonieta Arceo presented the extension programs of the Institute in line with the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) thrust to help increase the overall productivity and income of the farmers and fishers.

Arceo discussed the overall scope of extension under the Republic Act No. 8435 or the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act of 1997. She also talked about some challenges, opportunities, and threats in the sector.

Arceo also led the discussion on ATI’s extension programs anchored on the improved thematic scheme, dubbed as “Extension LEADS: Learn, Exhibit, Advise, Disseminate, and Support.” She explained that the Institute has been providing training services, technology demonstration, farm business advisories, access to agri-related information, and further assistance to extension policy-making.

ATI’s programs for the youth were, likewise, highlighted during the meeting. These include the introduction of agriculture to students in the primary and secondary education, training opportunities, scholarships and grants, on-farm skills development for young farmers, smart agriculture, support services, and some agricultural learning resources.

At the end of the presentations, the group raised questions related to ATI’s programs and extension activities in the country. Prior to the discussion, various products from ATI-accredited Learning Sites for Agriculture from all over the country were showcased and some publications were distributed to the group.

This activity was held last March 5,2020 at the ATI Rural Development Education Center in this city.