myAgro is constantly experimenting and conducting trials to determine best practices for all of our programs and activities. This provides ample opportunity to continually learn and grow while seeking advice and feedback from our staff, supporters and farmers. We are very excited about a new trial we are rolling out in February called the Master Gardener Program.
This program will harness the skill and availability of villagers who will be selected and then trained to provide the technical trainings to the farmers who have purchased vegetable packages with myAgro. These Master Gardeners will go through a rigorous selection process to ensure that they have the time and ability to perform the required tasks. They will then be trained on every aspect of the vegetable program so that they can provide the technical support to the farmers in their villages. The Master Gardeners will be trained by a myAgro vegetable specialist who will also make weekly visits to each village to gather data and provide follow-up support. This will provide more contact time to the farmers as a person from within their village will be readily available to provide support and answers questions about their vegetable fields.
The Master Gardener Program will increase the capacity of local farmers who are trained and graduate from the Master Gardener Program. It will also provide jobs for local farmers who will be able to use their monthly salaries for additional on and off-farm activities.
This program is in its trial phase, but we are excited about its potential to enhance the vegetable program and as a new and exciting way to provide technical support to our farmers who are increasing rapidly with our growing reputation as a quality organization.
