systems research - the IDRC Digital Library - International ...

hlem bers
o The need to improve docunlentation to further understand the processes
and attendant costs of FSR impact studies.
o The need to give careful consideration to the con~position of the FSR
impact team, by bearing in mind the need for farmer participation
throughout these studies (i.e., there must be an appropriate mix of
biological and social scientists).
o The need to emphasize the partnership that is required between farming
systems researchers and extension officers to ensure that the extension
staff are available and ready to cooperate in promoting the adoption of
new technologies. The studies showed too often that these links did not
exist, especially when the two groups were in separate departments. In
Thailand, the required links arose from personal contacts. In Isabela,
Philippines, extension workers were diverted from FS researchers by
technological change promoted by the private sector.
Group 2: Policy
V. T. Xuan - Vietnam (convenor); F. A. Bernardo - Philippines; S. A. Miah -
Bangladesh; S. B. Mathema - Nepal; M. 0. Adnyana - Indonesia; J. Hardie - IDRC;
R. Kirithaveep - Thailand; B. Shinawatra - Thailand; M. Agalawatte - Sri Lanka;
and W. D. Dar - Philippines.
Issues related to policy implications of the FSR approach were discussed at length.
Based on these discussions and the FSR lessons learned from the participating
countries, several issues were raised and corresponding recommendations were
made.
Institutionalizing the FSR approach
o To institutionalize the approach at both the national and grassroots
levels, there is an urgent need to sell and promote FSR-based ideas to
policymakers. This can be achieved by acquainting the policymakers with
the results of the FSR programs (i.e., impact studies and information and
data on returns to investments). Various other advocacy efforts must also
be pursued. A strong political will is a must.
o The FSR approach must be adopted on a broader perspective. It is not
sufficient to concentrate on the horizontal dimension; there must be a
focus on the vertical dimension as well. The vertical dimension would
allow promotion of rural agri-based industries and provide opportunities