SOLARES trained 33 enumerators on mobile-based data gathering and validation in early September 2021.
Partnering with the Coalition of Social Development Organizations South Cotabato (CSDO-SC), the SOLARES team headed by EnP. Jobe C. Tubigon, project manager, conducted a training on August 31, September 1 to 3, 2021 for the ODK-based data gathering/validation of coffee farmers’ profiles in Lebak and Kalamansig. Invited participants actively shared their recommendations regarding the form. They showing understanding towards the topic. The survey was generated through Kobotoolbox or Open Data Kit.
Following this training, SOLARES deployed enumerators to Lebak and Kalamansig on September 6, 2021. Data gathering and validation will determine actual agricultural/coffee production profile of the two municipalities. Results will reveal socio-economic and geographical profiles of at least 6,000 coffee growers in these municipalities and validate the Productive Uses of Renewable Energy (PURE) support of the project. These include the gaps or demand for highly efficient and appropriate post-harvest or processing facilities and equipment. Potentially, through the survey, the project can further engage nearby communities to support profiling in their municipalities.
With this, an established database will contribute to a responsive coffee industry in the province of Sultan Kudarat which was highly emphasized in recent consultations of SOLARES with the Sultan Kudarat Coffee Council. The database must include geographical, socio-economic/production, and marketing profiles (including production and marketing concerns) of coffee growers, producer organizations, processors, intermediaries, dealers/brokers, exporters, roasters/grinders, and other actors of the Sultan Kudarat coffee value chain. The survey is set to be completed in October.