DA-PhilRice experts lead the Training of Trainers (TOT) course on PadiCheck System at Wasan Vocational School in Brunei, November 26- December 23.

Thirty-five agricultural extension workers (AEWs) from the four districts of Brunei are participating in the training. It focuses on “PadiCheck System”, which is adapted to the rice growing conditions in Brunei.

DA-PhilRice Deputy Executive Director for Development and training team leader Ruben B. Miranda said the training integrates many hands-on exercises on rice production technologies aside from the regular classroom-type lectures. Likewise, AEWs will be taught how to use farm machines and equipment applicable for different crop stages.

Graduates of this training are expected to share and transfer these technologies to Brunei rice farmers. According to Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources (MIPR) Deputy Permanent Secretary Pg Hjh Mariana Pg Dipa Negara Laila Pg Hj Abdul Momin, they have to be “highly committed, effective, and innovative AEWs.”

She further expressed that, “human resource capacity building is crucial in our effort to elevate our rice production processes and techniques by using more advanced technologies.”

Likewise, Miranda also presented the results of the training needs assessment done in June that gauged the participants’ level of knowledge, skills, training preferences, and other information needs.

Philippine Ambassador to Brunei Alexander Yano, Brunei’s Department of Agriculture and Agrifood Director Hjh Normah Suria Hayati PJDSM DSU (Dr) Hj Mohd Jamil Al-Sufri were present during the opening program.

The MIPR-Department of Agriculture and Agrifood, in collaboration with PhilRice, organizes the training.