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Performance of the Corn-based Farmer-scientists Research, Development, and Extension Training Program and the Farmers' Field School in Cebu Province, Philippines
Abstract:
This study was conducted from August to September 2003 to assess the contributions of the integrated pest management (IPM) components of the farmer-scientists training program (FSTP) and farmers’ field school (FFS) to the levels of knowledge, practices, and attitude of corn farmers in Cebu, Philippines.
Majority of the farmer-respondents were at their prime age, married, male, high school graduates, landowners, active members of civic organizations, and with household size of 4-6 members. They were cultivating 0.5-4 ha of land. Most of them (FSTP and non-trained) did not avail of credit facilities.
Results of the study showed that the knowledge of FSTP- and FFS-trained farmerrespondents in the identification of corn diseases, weeds, and insect pest damage was “high” compared with the non-trained which was “average.” It was observed that the severity of corn diseases, weed species, and insect pest damage were almost uniform in farmer-respondents’ farms and was rated “low.” Furthermore, FSTP-trained respondents obtained higher yields and less production cost, thus resulting in higher income and profit compared with the FFS respondents. The usefulness of the knowledge, attitude, and practices on IPM principles were more evident among the trained than the non-trained farmer-respondents. The observance of health and environmental concerns in relation to the knowledge, attitude, and practices of the trained farmer-respondents were consequently and significantly “higher” than the non-trained farmer-respondents.
The problems encountered by the farmer-respondents on corn production before and after training were low yield and price; while on corn-based farming, it was financial difficulty even after the FSTP and FFS interventions. Majority of the farmer-respondents applied the knowledge acquired after the training on their own fields. In addition, the FSTP farmer-respondents would like to train other farmers.
After the training, the FSTP and FFS farmer-respondents were equipped with technical empowerment, and enhanced capability to undertake technology transfer, and research and extension activities compared with the non-trained farmer-respondents.
Moreover, value formation and support from the local government units and state colleges and universities were distinctly provided only to FSTP farmer-respondents but not to FFS and non-trained farmer-respondents. The FSTP had positive effects on the economic, social, and political conditions of the farmers.