Capacity building and external linkages assist use and integration of technology options for research and development projects

Effective research and development strategies rely on satisfactory capacity within all levels of the agricultural sector. One common avenue for local staff to access capacity building opportunities is through engagement with research and development projects. The project described in this paper supported capacity building for extension staff and farmers, through the implementation of on-farm research and by providing training and learning opportunities in key areas identified by the project and by local stakeholders. A skillsbased needs assessment was undertaken to determine training requirements. Priorities for district staff were based on data analysis and reporting, project management and computer skills. For farmers, the needs were more technically based, mainly incorporated into cross-site visits for learning and knowledge exchange. The project provided over 450 training places, including participants from private companies, regional universities and other local projects. Likewise, 500 people participated in cross-site visits over a broad range of topics and locations. Enhanced capacity, and familiarity with what others had tried, assisted the teams to implement their technologies in several focal villages. A survey of project staff generated feedback on project activities and the resulting changes to staff and farmer’s skill development and experiences. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with key informants in the project leadership, district staff and farmers. Major benefits noted by both farmers and district staff were increasing knowledge and improving farm productivity. Additionally, the project engaged with a wide range of external stakeholders, including research and development projects, private companies, NGOs and Educational Providers in southern Laos.