A significant shift is underway to revitalize Philippine agriculture, driven by a new partnership between the Department of Agriculture and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority. The goal: to empower farmers and fisherfolk with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry and dramatically increase their incomes.
The collaboration will launch a wave of modernized training programs, addressing critical areas like operating advanced rice machinery and mastering the art of agri-entrepreneurship. Crucially, the initiative also focuses on preserving the bounty of the seas with specialized training in fisheries postharvest handling and canning techniques.
TESDA is spearheading the development of crucial modules, working closely with the Department of Agriculture’s Fisheries Development Council to ensure relevance and practical application. This collaborative approach guarantees the training directly addresses the needs of those working on the front lines of food production.
Beyond the immediate needs of the fields and waters, the program expands to encompass essential business skills. New courses in cooperative management, efficient butchery and slaughterhouse operations, and the processing of valuable seaweed are slated for integration into the national curriculum next year.
Accessibility is paramount. These vital programs won’t be confined to traditional classrooms; they will be delivered through institution-based learning, on-the-job enterprise training, community workshops, and even convenient online platforms. This multi-faceted approach ensures even those in the most remote rural areas can participate.
According to Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr., this initiative is directly aligned with the President’s vision for a technologically advanced agricultural sector. As new machinery, greenhouses, and improved seed varieties become available, equipping farmers with the knowledge to utilize these innovations is essential for success.
The Department of Agriculture isn’t simply launching these programs and hoping for the best. They are committed to rigorously evaluating the impact of the updated training, establishing clear parameters to measure effectiveness and quantify the benefits for farmers and the nation’s food security.
