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Dynamics in Implementing a Climate Field School: Challenges and Opportunities


To better understand the dynamics of handling a climate field school (CFS) in different environments, the experience in handling such activities in the field was explored. It would be helpful to find out the different situations that provided positive results in this activity as well as the issues that were encountered during implementation. A SWOT analysis was used to identify the internal and external factors that facilitated as well as constrained the conduct of the activity. Challenges were observed: insufficient water, thus extended dry periods causing delayed and poor plant germination; occurrence of natural disasters; incidence of pests and diseases; and maintaining farmers’ interest and good attendance. However, these challenges were treated as lessons in project implementation. Many opportunities were created in the process of implementing the project. Positive attitude of cooperators, willingness of resource persons to share their expertise, dedication of agricultural technologists and project agricultural technicians, proximity to government institutions, opening of a local market, and possible partnership with schools are some of the strengths that were observed. More barangays and farmers should benefit from the CFS dynamics. A social marketing campaign will be helpful to introduce the CFS in other barangays and municipalities. Good communication between CFS participants and non-participants can facilitate the promotion of the CFS. Strong collaboration between LGUs and partners is needed for a more systematic monitoring of the project.

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