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Academe-Cooperative Extension Partnership: Effectiveness and Impact Toward Sustainable Agriculture Development in Visayas, Philippines
Abstract
Agricultural extension is a core mandate of higher education institutions, fostering knowledge transfer and strengthening farming communities. This study evaluated the effectiveness and impact of the KABUHI-ASENSO academe–cooperative extension program. A descriptive–evaluative design was employed, using a structured survey administered to 35 cooperative members who completed at least 80% of the training, supported by focus group discussions. Data were analyzed using weighted means and Pearson's r correlation. Findings showed the program was highly effective in enhancing livelihood, income, food security, and access to resources, while job creation was rated effective. The impact assessment indicated significant contributions to food and nutrition, decent work, and institutional support, but only moderate gains in poverty reduction. Correlation analysis confirmed significant positive relationships between effectiveness and impact, with job creation strongly linked to poverty reduction (r = .790, p < .01). The focus group discussions reinforced these results, citing improved household diets, women’s confidence in organic production, and collective benefits from cooperative assets such as shredders, composters, and ramp-pump systems. Overall, the program demonstrated measurable effectiveness and impact, highlighting academe–cooperative partnerships as a viable model for agricultural community development.
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References
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DOI: 10.33687/ijae.013.03.5905
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Copyright (c) 2026 Valerie U. Pascual, Kristy Mae B. Januhan, Chiene N. Monares, Pet Roey L. Pascual
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