Second batch of farmers completes intensive three-day programme under JICA’s 2025 capacity-building initiative
ISLAMABAD: A new group of farmers from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s merged districts has completed a three-day agricultural training programme at the National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC), marking another milestone in Japan’s ongoing support for Pakistan’s farming sector.
Organised by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in collaboration with NARC and the Directorate General Agriculture Extension, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the training was held from November 24 to 26 as part of JICA’s long-running Knowledge Co-Creation Program on Agriculture Extension Planning and Management.
The latest batch represents the second group of farmers to receive specialized instruction under the 2025 cycle of JICA’s capacity-building initiative. Earlier this year, one cohort of Agriculture Officers completed their training, followed by two groups of Field Assistants in August and September. Additional batches of Field Assistants are scheduled for the coming months, underscoring the programme’s continuity and expanding reach.
So far, the initiative has equipped around 100 participants—including Agriculture Officers, Field Assistants, and farmers from the merged districts—with enhanced technical expertise and practical skills. The training aims to strengthen local extension services while promoting the adoption of modern, resource-efficient, and climate-resilient farming practices.
A senior JICA representative highlighted that the programme offers a vital platform for knowledge exchange, hands-on experience, and exposure to innovative agricultural technologies tailored to the needs of developing farming communities. Participants received training in modern crop production techniques, improved water and input-use efficiency, high-value agriculture, value-chain development, and field-based demonstrations. Organisers emphasised that these modules are designed to uplift farming households, improve productivity, and contribute to sustainable agricultural growth across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
