SNV supports farmers and extension agents in sustainable agriculture and climate change adaptation
To increase the productivity of coffee production in the face of climate change.
To strengthen the capacity and knowledge of agricultural extension officers, SNV, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of Dak Lak Province, successfully organised a Training of Trainers (ToT) - Module 1: 'Nutrient Management and Pest Control for Robusta Coffee.' The training, held on 21-22 June in Buon Ma Thuot City, Dak Lak Province, attracted 30 grassroots extension workers and key farmers from the project areas. This activity is part of the Climate Resilient Coffee Farming in Vietnam (CRCF) project.
The training programme was designed to equip participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively disseminate information to key farmers, thereby improving the efficiency of coffee farming in the context of climate change. Specifically, Module 1 focused on nutrient management and pest control for Robusta coffee, a critical issue in sustainable coffee production.
Participants were trained on several key topics and engaged in activities to reinforce knowledge and communication skills, including:
Fertiliser and productivity, quality, economics and the environment: Guidance on the effective use of fertiliser to optimise coffee yield and quality. Analysis of the relationship between fertilizer use and economic benefits to farmers, with discussions on sustainable fertilizer practices to minimise negative environmental impacts.
Use of LogAlto for data management: Instructions on how to use the LogAlto tool to efficiently manage and monitor data and activities.
FFS (Farmer Field School) training skills: Equipping participants with skills to organise and deliver local farmer training.
Economic and environmental pest management: Sharing effective, environmentally friendly and economically beneficial pest management practices.
The training programme yielded positive results, with all 30 participants completing the course with the necessary knowledge and skills for practical application. The training provided an opportunity for extension officers to update their knowledge and served as a forum for sharing experiences and learning from each other. It laid an important foundation for building a support network for extension work, thereby increasing the effectiveness of communicating the project's message and importance to the community.
SNV commends the enthusiastic participation of the trainees, the dedicated guidance of the trainers and the valuable support of the partners. SNV is committed to follow up with key farmers and extension officers in subsequent CRCF project trainings to promote sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture.
