To assess the project’s actual accomplishments vis-à-vis targets in support of the network, the DA-Bureau of Agricultural Research conducted a completion review of 2023 funded projects under the Agriculture and Fisheries Resources, Research and Extension for Development Network (AFRREDN) Program on 29-30 April 2024 via Google Meet.
AFRREDN, a joint initiative with the DA-Agricultural Training Institute, intends to serve as a major partnership mechanism for stakeholders in agriculture and fisheries research for development and extension (R4DE). By fostering strong collaboration among its members, the network aims to ensure effective delivery of interventions, quality programs, services and relevant policies. Particularly, the Regional AFRREDN will lead in prioritizing and coordinating R4DE activities, programs and services at the regional level.
DA-BAR assistant director Joell H. Lales led the bureau staff in providing recommendations and guidance on the implementation of AFRREDN.
In his message, assistant director Lales underscored that the impact pathway for R4DE should come from the integration and inclusivity of institutions, and participation of extension partners. “Outputs of R4D will be scaled up by our colleagues involved in extension operations. There has to be support from other partners in terms of financial and technical assistance,” he said.
He further emphasized that the institutionalization of AFRREDN should be anchored on DA Memorandum Circular No. 02, s 2024 stipulating the implementing guidelines, the network’s objectives, functions, areas of cooperation, operational strategies as well as its composition, structure, membership, and funding support but also encouraged comments and recommendations to further improve the network. “We will not create competition, we have to find ways on how to strategically work and complement with our partners and counterparts. Let’s think [of] areas for improvement,” he stressed.
AFRREDN focal presented their respective projects’ accomplishments, best practices, fund utilization status, challenges encountered, actions taken and proposed ways forward.
The Regional AFRREDN are expected to finalize respective Memorandum of Understanding among member institutions, hence, officially launch regional networks.