Agriculture Secretary William Dar stressed the new role of the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) as “capacity builders” instead of simply being referred to as the “DA’s extension arm” during its 35th founding anniversary program on January 25, 2022.
“It took us 35 years of journey to have a new mindset towards appreciating our responsibility, of ATI as capacity builder for extension workers, farmer-leaders, and those involved in the national programs for development, extension, and many others,” Sec. Dar said.
True to the theme of the celebration – “Innovating OneDA Agricultural Extension Strategies Beyond the New Normal” the agri chief challenged the ATI “to put more expertise and bring in the human capital that can continue to innovate, has that foresight and how to build and capacitate the extension delivery system of this country.”
He encouraged the Institute to continue capacitating and enhancing the banner programs of the Department, especially the key strategies under the “OneDA Reform Agenda”.
In its role as a catalyst, along with the DA Regional Field Offices (RFOs) and other related institutions under the Department, Sec. Dar urged ATI to enhance the capacity of the Philippine provinces to lead and bring agricultural extension services to the grassroots level through the Province-led Agriculture and Fisheries Extension Systems (PAFES).
He also urged the agency to continue persevering and delivering its programs and services to the Philippines agriculture sector, and to involve the younger generation of farmers and fishers in its programs.
Meanwhile, ATI Director Rosana Mula conveyed the continuing commitment of the Institution, along with its network of training centers and private extension partners, to provide development opportunities to Filipino farmers, fisherfolk, and their families.
As part of the anniversary celebration, ATI also launched its own Operations Manual as part of its commitment for a smooth transition and continuity of the “OneDA Reform Agenda”. ### (Krystelle Ymari A. Vergara, DA-AFID)
