Training the Trainers Participatory Program on Agricultural Extension Methodology Partners 18 Japan International Cooperation Agency JICA Government of Indonesia Asian + African Countries

Training the Trainers Participatory Program on Agricultural Extension Methodology Background Aiming to empower not only agricultural extension officers, but also the farmers, the Governments of Indonesia and Japan conducted a two-year research project to formulate a “Participatory Agricultural Extension Methodology” and training method. After a successful implementation of the methodology in Indonesia, partners agreed to take the method to 18 Asian and African countries.

Training the Trainers Participatory Program on Agricultural Extension Methodology Objectives To enhance capabilities for agricultural extension at country levels. To identify key success factors in farmers and farmer groups and to disseminate good practices among neighboring farmer groups and communities. To upgrade agricultural production and quality of life. Innovation Formulated through intensive joint research by Japan and Indonesia. Benefits of the approach are being shared through training, developing capacities along the process. Participant acknowledged the relevance of the approach for agricultural development, and to face and prevent food crisis. Easier to adapt to local contexts, compared with other extension methods.

Training the Trainers Participatory Program on Agricultural Extension Methodology Results Around 70 experts from 18 Asia and Africa countries trained in Indonesia. Participants acknowledged that the approach is replicable and relevant to overcome agricultural challenges in their countries. Approach resulted compatible with democratization and decentralization processes in Asia and Africa. Applicability Cooperation for agricultural development is now being replicated in other countries of the region. Academia should be involved to design training modules as well as to assess, monitor and evaluate the impact of the training.