Uplifting Farmers Communities: A Training Needs Assessment

Abstract— Educating farmers through training usually happen outside the formal learning       institutions and it aims to contribute towards adult learning and improving their farming performances. This study focused on identifying the training needs and develops capacity training to improve farmers' association communities in their farming practices. A combination of internationally documented qualitative and quantitative research methods was utilized to capture the current knowledge and training needs of farmer’s association communities and the importance they place on different agricultural practices, and also to understand the best and most efficient approach in transmitting agricultural knowledge. The study used mixed methods in gathering data such as interview, survey and focus group discussion. Findings indicated that farmers associations still desire to improve their present knowledge and give more importance on the following: crop production in water management, vegetable production in controlling pest and diseases, livestock in chicken production and disease management, and developing small business as their alternative livelihood. It also showed that the government extension services were the main provider and presentation during community meetings is the most preferred methods of farmer’s association in receiving trainings. However, training needs and capacity training for the farmers' association communities required participation, cooperation and openness from the farmers towards their upliftment.