Two days training on FYM improvement and urine collection conducted:

“Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.”This is what Benjamin Franklin says and understanding the essence of this quote, ISAP with Peace Wind Japan (PWJ) conducted a two-day training combining both theoretical and practical approach of learning on Farm Yard Management (FYM) improvement and urine collection training under SAFII project funded by JICA at Chautara, Sindhupalchowk. The training which was held from 30th April to 1st May 2019, saw the presence of 18 participants from different farmers' group. This training aimed to impart theoretical knowledge of FYM and urine collection techniques to the participants and persuade the participants to adopt the learned techniques by highlighting on advantages of FYM and urine collection techniques in the context of maintaining soil health and improving overall production. In addition, the participants got an opportunity to get hands-on experience from an FYM management and urine collection demonstration session.

The first day of the training, which started with a briefing on the objective of the training was then followed by taking pre-test of all the participants. The first day of the training which mainly focused on theoretical aspect had three sessions: i. Plant nutrition, ii. Integrated Pesticides Management (IPM) and iii. FYM improvement and urine collection techniques. First two sessions were facilitated by SAFII staffs Mr Roshan Adhikari and Ms Dipika Adhikari respectively while the session on FYM was facilitated by external resource person, Mr Mitra Mahat, who has a year-long experience on this field. The second day of the training which was more of the demonstration of the construction of FYM improvement and urine collection structure was conducted in one of the participants’ cattle shed. Mr Mahat ensured that all the participants actively participated in the construction work at this session focused on learning by doing approaches. The participants are envisioned to do the same in their cattle shed after attending this training.

All the participants concluded that the two days training was really fruitful for them and expressed great appreciation and acknowledgement towards SAFII team for continuously supporting them which has not only enhanced their technical skills and knowledge but has boosted their confidence towards fresh vegetable farming. Convinced that with improved cattle shed, FYM and collected urine shall provide all the necessary nutrients essential for plant, all the participating farmers showed commitment to construct the similar demonstrated structure in their cattle shed. “I will build the cow-shed in my house with what I have learned here practically in this “FYM improvement and urine management technique “training. Though I cannot afford to build a roof to preserve the manure from rainfall and sunlight, I will create a temporary roof from plants to maintain shade and protect the manure.”Saraswati Giri, one of the participants shared.