Impact assessment of ARC-AVRDC regional training course in vegetable production and research: The case of Indo-China

Survey was conducted in the Indo-China Region (Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar and Vietnam) to assess the impact and constraints of ARC-AVRDC'S 5-month regional training course in vegetable production and research. Respondents were all of the alumni who attended the regional training course held in 1981-1997. Frequency distribution, percentages, and means were used to describe the results. Impact was assessed by way of a 5-point scale to measure the training influence and usefulness on selected variables relating to professional growth, knowledge utilization and for job productivity of the alumni. The training program was found to have a positive impact in terms of career advancement as well as motivation to seek professional advancement. It had a high influence on promotion. It also influenced expanding job responsibilities after the training. Respondents from all the countries found their training to be very useful in enhancing abilities to conduct seminars, workshops and conferences, production programs and consultancies. Almost 100 percent of the knowledge and skills gained were being used in their present employment. To a very high degree, the training improved the alumni decision-making capabilities and confidence in discharging their duties. It enabled them to better participation in organizational decision-making. It enhanced their productivity of authoring publications. Lack of funds, materials/equipment, scientific information, and government support were among the constraints that hindered the application of what had been learned. To improve the training course, the alumni suggested that the methodology be throughly reviewed. Assistance in overcoming language barrier for non-English speaking participants and periodic follow-up were also suggested.