S&T bridges gap between agri R&D and extension

Technology transfer and utilization modalities developed by the science and technology (S&T) sector have proven vital in bridging the gap between the country’s agriculture research and development (R&D) and decentralized extension systems under the local government units (LGUs).

In line with the government’s agricultural modernization thrusts, the Techno Gabay Program of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCARRD) under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) seeks to bring R&D milestones, breakthroughs, and outputs in agriculture, forestry, and natural resources to the awareness and reach of potential users, particularly farmers and small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

According to PCARRD Executive Director Patricio S. Faylon, the Philippines has yet to attain the efficiency of decentralized, LGU-based agriculture extension system that other developing countries, such as South Korea and Malaysia, are enjoying. However, several innovative technology delivery patterns, such as PCARRD’s Techno Gabay Program and the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) Farmers’ Field Schools and Farmer-Scientist Training Program, are making a big difference in ensuring that economic gains brought by S&T advances in agriculture will work their way through the underprivileged sectors.

Faylon was one of the paper presenters during the FAO-sponsored "Expert Consultation on Agriculture Extension: Research-Extension-Farmer interface and Technology Transfer" held in Bangkok, Thailand.

One of PCARRD’s successful techno transfer patterns under the Techno Gabay program is the Farmers’ information and Technology Services or the Techno Pinoy. It is based on the one-stop concept, and has proven to be effective in facilitating the extension service of the LGUs and other non-government organizations (NGOs).

Techno Pinoy centers support the information and technology needs of existing and new production/postproduction systems of farmers and SMEs. Such centers bank on the technical expertise of the Magsasaka Siyentista; utilize appropriate information, education, and communication strategies; and use information and communication technology delivery system.

Techno Pinoy centers aim to generate jobs by facilitating the adoption of new technologies by farmers and SMEs. An effective and efficient access to information and technology is expected to improve agricultural productivity, increase farm income, and create new livelihood opportunities toward sustainable development in the countryside.

Of the 68 Techno Pinoy centers established in various regions of the country, 39 are hosted by the LGUs (12 provincial based, 21 municipal based, 2 city based, and 3 barangay based), 9 by state colleges and universities (SCUs), 13 by the DA, 4 by the DOST Provincial S&T Office, 2 by NGOs and 1 by the DENR. Further information on the Techno Pinoy centers are posted on the PCARRD website at www.pcarrd.dost.gov.ph.

Recently, PCARRD in collaboration with DA’s Livestock Development Council (LDC) and other concerned agencies launched the second Livestock Techno Pinoy Center in the country. Based at the Philippine Carabao Center La Carlota Stock Farm in La Granja, Negros Occidental, the Livestock Techno Pinoy Center seeks to provide much needed state-of-the-art information to livestock stakeholders, among others. The center also showcases a wide array of agriculture know-hows responsive to the needs of the farmers in Region 6. This collaborative project of LDC and PCAARD targets the establishment of 15 livestock Techno Pinoy centers in the regions of the country. – (J.L. Solivas and C.B. Gloria, S&T Media Service)