The training was opened by the IMS officer as planned on 12th June, 2023 at Sefwi Anhwiaso cocoa District. He encourage the participants to take advantage of the opportunity and learn more about the cocoa pruning and spraying.
After the opening remarks , the programme outline of the training was presented to the participant and allowed them to come out with their expectations and concerns. Eighteen (18) farmers participated in the 5 day training program.
Participants reported on time at the training center and took much interest in the training topics. They were higly enthused and that was a positive feedback on the success of the program.
TRAINING CONTENT
A pre written test on safe use of pesticides was conducted on the participants to find out their level of understanding on the topic. Some of the topics treated were; cocoa pest & diseases control, Integrated Pest Management (IPM), Scouting, business management, Pesticides formulation, mode of action,Harzards of pesticides, first aid and pruning.
During the training, participants testified the detailed of the training contents and how it has enriched their knowledge on cocoa pest and disease control and pruning.
FACILITATION
Training methods used was mainly discussion, group work and demonstration. The slide presentation was more of pictures and illustrations. Participatory approach was used during presentation. One day was set aside for practical session at nearby cocoa farm ,where participants were taken through cocoa pruning, scounting and application of pesticide.Two (2)Cargill officers Isaac Dinka Duuti and Ema Esiamah were also in attendance at the training and during the practical session to support the facilitation.
LOGISTICS
Snacks, water and food was provided to all the participants.In addition to this, participants were supported with T & T to enable them comute from their communities and the training center.
CHALLENGES
Apart from inadequate T&T pay to the participants , they were also stressed up because of movement to and from the communities and the training center. Secondly the communities were far from training center. Further, the 2days set aside for sensitization and slection of the participants were inadequate. There were budgetry constaint in the area of provition of snacks, water and food for participants.
RECOMMENDATION
I will recommend 1day per community for the sensitization to facilitate proper organization of the cooperatives.
I also recommend upword review of food,water and T&T budget in our subsequnce trainings to free facilitators from financial stress which can affect their delivery.If it will be possible the training should residential so that participants will not go through that stress.
Training session
Practical session
During PPEs demonstration
Pruning session