News & Events

VARANASI, India – In a world where development investments are increasingly expected to deliver measurable results, the ability to generate credible evidence has become a cornerstone of effective policymaking. To help researchers and practitioners meet this growing demand, IRRI Education successfully conducted the Workshop on Impact Evaluation and Causal Inference from 13–17 July 2026 at the IRRI South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC) in Varanasi, India. 

The five-day workshop brought together 18 researchers, policymakers, and development practitioners from Asia, Africa, and North America to strengthen their capacity in evaluating development interventions using rigorous scientific methods. The training was led by Dr. Patrick Ward, Associate Professor in the Food and Resource Economics Department at the University of Florida, and Dr. Valerian Pede, Senior Agricultural Economist at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and the Head of the Transformative Policies and Investments Unit, with Dr. Vikram Patil, Scientist – Agricultural Economics at IRRI, also serving as a resource person. The workshop equipped participants with practical tools to generate credible evidence that can inform policies, improve development programs, and maximize the impact of investments in agriculture and related sectors. 

Participants represented a diverse range of institutions, including the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), ICAR–Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR), Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (Ghana), International Potato Center (CIP), Alliance of Bioversity International, University of Arkansas, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Lancet Countdown Africa, and other partner organizations. 

Building Capacity for Evidence-Based Policymaking 

As governments and development organizations face increasingly complex challenges—from food security and climate resilience to resource allocation—understanding what works, why it works, and for whom has become more prominent than ever. 

Throughout the workshop, participants explored the principles of impact evaluation and causal inference through a balance of theoretical discussions and practical applications. Sessions covered randomized controlled trials (RCTs), difference-in-differences (DiD), instrumental variables (IV), regression discontinuity designs (RDD), cost-effectiveness analysis, and evidence-based policymaking, enabling participants to critically assess the effectiveness of programs and interventions. 

Rather than focusing solely on statistical methods, the workshop emphasized how rigorous evaluation can bridge the gap between research and policy, ensuring that decisions are grounded in reliable evidence and lead to more effective and sustainable development outcomes.

A Learning Environment Designed for Everyone 

One of the workshop’s defining strengths was its highly interactive and learner-centered approach. 

Participants consistently commended Dr. Patrick Ward for making technically challenging concepts accessible to learners with varying levels of experience in R programming. Through hands-on exercises, real-world examples, and personalized guidance, he created an inclusive learning environment where both beginners and experienced researchers could confidently participate. 

Many participants noted that they not only gained a better understanding of impact evaluation methods but also left with the confidence to continue using R independently through the learning materials and resources shared during the workshop. 

The engaging format encouraged participants to ask questions, collaborate with peers, and immediately apply newly learned concepts to practical scenarios—making the learning experience both relevant and highly applicable to their professional work. 

Transforming Perspectives on Impact Evaluation 

Beyond strengthening technical competencies, the workshop reshaped how participants viewed impact evaluation and its role in research and development. 

Several participants shared that they now “feel confident for designing Impact Study,” while others described becoming “more confident about the concepts, methods selection & implementation.“ 

For many, the workshop also challenged previous assumptions. 

One participant reflected that “this is not as hard and as complicated as I thought,” while another remarked that their “perception towards impact assessment has changed.” 

Others highlighted how the training reinforced the importance of rigorous research design. One participant explained that before attending the workshop, they had not considered the importance of developing a theory of change in impact evaluation. After the training, they realized that without a theory of change, impact assessment results could be biased, fundamentally changing how they plan to evaluate future programs. 

Participants also reported greater confidence in collaborating with international researchers, increased commitment to evidence-based research, and a renewed appreciation for applying rigorous evaluation methods in addressing real-world development challenges. 

Learning That Extends Beyond the Classroom 

The workshop’s impact was reflected in the participants’ own words. 

“This is the most useful course that I have added in the recent past and quite applicable to my area of work.” 

Another participant emphasized how the workshop effectively combined theory with practice. 

“This training on impact evaluation and causal inference greatly expanded my knowledge of methods that can be used to inform policy making. The introduction to practical application grounded in theoretical knowledge was especially helpful as someone new to this type of research.” 

For participants already familiar with some evaluation approaches, the workshop deepened their understanding and broadened their methodological toolkit. 

“Though I have used DiD method earlier, after the training I am satisfied and have the confidence of using more quasi-experimental designs in my research work.” 

The workshop also fostered valuable professional connections among participants from different countries and institutions, creating opportunities for future collaborations that extend beyond the duration of the training. 

One participant described the experience as: 

“An exceptional learning experience that exceeded my expectations. The program was well structured, highly interactive, and combined strong theoretical foundations with practical applications that I can readily apply in my research and professional work.”

Strengthening Collaboration Through the IRRI-ICAR Partnership 

The workshop also reflected the strong and growing collaboration between IRRI and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in advancing research capacity and evidence-based agricultural development. Under the current IRRI-ICAR Collaboration, participants nominated by Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) joined the workshop, further strengthening institutional collaboration and knowledge exchange between the two organizations. 

For the ICAR-nominated participants, the training strengthened both technical skills and confidence in bringing rigorous evaluation methods back to their institutions. 

One participant shared, 

“Wonderful course, excellent resource person.” 

Another participant from ICAR-IARI reflected on how the experience reinforced ties to their home institution and opened the door to future collaboration: 

“I joined this training program with great enthusiasm, encouraged by my Head of Division… I am grateful to my institution for selecting me, I am confident in using more quasi-experimental designs, such as DiD, in my research work and I look forward to building on the relationships I’ve formed with fellow participants and resource faculty for future collaboration.” 

For the ICAR-nominated participants, the training was as much about the people in the room as the methods on the whiteboard. Working alongside researchers from Africa, and North America, gave them a firsthand look at how evaluation challenges play out in very different agricultural and policy contexts, while sharpening their own technical grounding in impact evaluation and causal inference.

Expanding Opportunities Through the Capacity Sharing Accelerator

The workshop also underscored the value of partnerships in strengthening research capacity across the Global South. Several participants expressed their appreciation to the Capacity Sharing Accelerator (CapSha) of CGIAR, whose support enabled them to participate in the training and engage with fellow researchers from diverse institutions and countries. 

For many, the opportunity extended far beyond attending a technical workshop—it opened doors to new knowledge, professional networks, and future collaborations. 

One participant shared, 

“It’s been an insightful workshop that unpacks the importance of causal inference and rigorous evidence generation for policy impact evaluation. Thank you to the Capacity Sharing (CAPSha) for sponsoring my attendance to the workshop.” 

Another participant reflected on how the sponsorship made a meaningful difference in their professional development, saying, 

“This course was an exceptional learning experience that exceeded my expectations. The program was well structured, highly interactive, and combined strong theoretical foundations with practical applications that I can readily apply in my research and professional work. I would like to express my sincere appreciation to IRRI and the people of India for their warm hospitality… My heartfelt thanks also go to CapSha for generously sponsoring my participation, making it possible for me to benefit from this valuable opportunity.” 

Beyond supporting participation, CapSha’s support in capacity development enabled researchers and practitioners to gain practical skills, exchange experiences across disciplines and countries, and build professional relationships that can foster future collaboration in advancing evidence-based agricultural research and development. 

Strengthening the Future of Evidence-Informed Development 

The true measure of this workshop lies not in the five days spent in the classroom, but in the decisions, policies, and innovations that participants will shape long after they return home. 

By investing in the people behind research and development, IRRI Education continues to champion evidence-informed solutions that address the world’s most pressing agricultural challenges. The call is clear: build stronger evidence, make better decisions, and create lasting impacts where it matters most—in the lives of farmers and the future of global food systems. 

Interested in similar training opportunities? Visit education.irri.org to learn more or email us at irri-education@cgiar.org.

LOS BAÑOS, Laguna, Philippines — 25 staff from the regional centers of the Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI) successfully completed the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Training Course held on 4–8 May 2026 at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in Los Baños, Laguna. 

The five-day course strengthened participants’ knowledge and practical skills in ecological, climate-smart, and sustainable pest management strategies for rice-based systems. 

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is widely recognized as an economically and ecologically sound approach that helps farmers improve productivity while minimizing harmful effects on human health and the environment. Through this training, led by Dr. Nurmi Pangesti, Scientist II – Entomology and Country Representative –Cambodia, participants were introduced to recent paradigm shifts in rice pest management, updates in pest management technologies, and strategies for designing localized IPM learning action plans. 

Unlike traditional classroom-based training, the course emphasized experiential learning through field-based and participatory activities. Participants engaged in lectures, laboratory sessions, hands-on fieldwork, bus stop practical exercises, and community immersion activities that allowed them to directly observe and identify live insect pests, diseased rice plants, weeds, and other field concerns. 

Throughout the training, participants learned from IRRI scientists, researchers, and partner experts from different DA agencies specializing in entomology, plant pathology, weed science, digital agriculture, geospatial science, agronomy, and innovation systems. 

Key modules covered during the course included: 

• Introduction to IPM ecology, concepts, and principles  

• Identification and management of rice insect pests, diseases, and weeds  

• Management of rodents, golden apple snails, and birds  

• Digital agriculture and precision farming tools  

• Pest Risk Identification and Management (PRIME)  

• Farmer Field School and participatory techno-demonstration design  

• Participatory Community Appraisal (PCA) and learning action planning  

A highlight of the course was the field visit to Sta. Cruz, Laguna, where participants interviewed farmers, and conducted participatory appraisal activities to better understand on-the-ground pest management challenges and farmer decision-making. 

Participants also took part in practical “bus stop” exercises—interactive stations featuring real pest specimens, disease symptoms, and weed samples—which tested and strengthened their diagnostic and identification skills. 

One participant shared: 

“I really appreciate the hands-on activities included in this training. I can now confidently identify insect pests and diseases which I had only seen in pictures before.” 

Another participant reflected on the value of the training for extension work: 

“The training was very intensive and very helpful. Through this five-day training, I was able to properly identify natural enemies and insect pests, diseases based on lesions and symptoms, and became more familiar with weeds in rice fields. Truly, this training enhanced my skills.” 

Participants likewise highlighted the relevance of the course to their work in agricultural extension. 

“It was informative and relevant to rice production and extension work. The combination of lectures, discussions, field activities, and hands-on exercises strengthened both understanding and practical skills.” 

Representing various ATI Regional Training Centers across the Philippines, participants included rice coordinators, agriculturists, development management officers, training specialists, technical support staff, and program focal persons who directly support farmers and agricultural communities nationwide. 

By the end of the training, participants developed context-specific Learning Action Plan including the different tools discussed in the course; Farmer Field School session plans, techno-demonstration concepts, and Participatory Community Appraisal tools that they can implement in their respective regions. 

From identifying pests in the field to co-creating solutions with farmers, the training demonstrated that effective pest management goes beyond theory—it requires action, collaboration, and continuous learning. As participants return to their respective regions, they carry with them the knowledge, tools, and confidence to champion Integrated Pest Management and support Filipino farmers in protecting their crops, livelihoods, and communities.  

Interested in similar training opportunities? Visit education.irri.org to learn more or email us at irri-education@cgiar.org.

Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines — The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), through IRRI Education, successfully concluded the second implementation of the Training Workshop on Self-sufficiency, Food Security and Agricultural Transformation, held from 6–9 July 2026 at the MS Swaminathan Building, IRRI Headquarters in Los Baños, Laguna. 

Building on the success of its inaugural offering in 2024, the four-day workshop brought together 15 researchers, policymakers, graduate students, agricultural professionals, and IRRI staff and scholars from Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Vietnam, Zimbabwe, and the Philippines. Participants represented national agricultural research institutions, universities, CGIAR centers, and government agencies, creating a diverse learning environment for exchanging experiences on food systems and agricultural development. 

The training aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of the relationships between food security, food self-sufficiency, agricultural transformation, and food trade policies, while equipping them with practical frameworks for analyzing how these concepts influence national development and nutrition outcomes. 

Understanding Food Systems Through Policy and Practice 

Throughout the workshop, participants explored the concepts of agrifood systems transformation, self-sufficiency, food security, agricultural policy, and international food trade through expert-led lectures and interactive discussions. 

Sessions were facilitated by renowned agricultural economists and food policy experts, including Dr. David Dawe, an independent economist specializing in food policy analysis, and Dr. Valerien Pede, Head of IRRI’s Transformative Policies and Investments Unit. Additional lectures from international experts provided participants with broader perspectives on nutrition security, agricultural innovation, and the evolving role of agriculture in sustainable development. 

The program also featured educational visits to several of IRRI’s research facilities, including the Grain Quality and Nutrition Laboratory, Plant Growth Facility, Speed Breeding Facility, and the International Genebank. These visits allowed participants to observe firsthand how research and innovation contribute to improving food systems and supporting global food security. Participants also visited Heager’s Hut and Villa Escudero to gain practical insights into agricultural innovation, enterprise, and the broader social and cultural dimensions of agricultural transformation. 

Learning Beyond the Linear: Collaboration Across Diverse Contexts 

One of the defining features of this year’s workshop was its strong emphasis on collaborative learning. 

Beyond lectures, participants actively engaged in breakout sessions, country exercises, and group presentations where they examined food security and self-sufficiency challenges in the situation of their own countries. Working alongside peers from different regions allowed participants to compare experiences, discuss policy approaches, and collectively develop recommendations grounded in diverse national contexts. 

Rather than learning solely from the resource persons, participants also learned from one another by sharing the realities, opportunities, and challenges faced in their respective countries. The exchange of perspectives enriched discussions and encouraged participants to think beyond local contexts toward regional and global solutions for food systems transformation. 

Participants recognized the value of this collaborative approach. One said that: 

“This training is very rich in knowledge exchange from various participants sharing the information and status of their country.” 

Another participant reflected on how the workshop strengthened their understanding of the interconnected nature of food systems. 

“The course has helped me to make linkages among diverse indicators, production, agriculture share of GDP, employment, self-sufficiency, affordability of a healthy diet, diet quality and nutrition outcomes.” 

Several participants also highlighted how the course broadened their perspectives on agricultural research and policy. 

“This workshop has transformed the way I approach agricultural research. Beyond developing improved crop varieties, I now appreciate the importance of linking research outcomes with national indicators such as poverty, malnutrition, obesity, healthy diet affordability, and agriculture’s contribution to GDP.”

Strengthening Global Capacity for Food Systems Transformation 

The workshop concluded with participant group presentations, reflections, testimonials, and the awarding of certificates, highlighting four days of intensive learning and international collaboration. 

By bringing together participants from across Africa and Asia, the second Training Workshop on Self-sufficiency, Food Security and Agricultural Transformation provided a platform for exchanging knowledge, fostering international collaboration, and strengthening capacities to address increasingly complex food systems challenges. 

Through expert instruction, experiential learning, and meaningful peer-to-peer engagement, IRRI Education continues to equip agricultural professionals with the knowledge and networks needed to contribute to more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable agrifood systems worldwide.

Interested in similar training opportunities? Visit education.irri.org to learn more or email us at irri-education@cgiar.org.

Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines — The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), through IRRI Education, successfully concluded the Training Course on Rice Root Phenotyping held from 20–24 April 2026 at the MS Swaminathan Building, IRRI Headquarters in Los Baños, Laguna. 

The five-day course brought together nine graduate students, researchers, and academic professionals from the Philippines, Taiwan, Kenya, Tanzania, and the United Kingdom. Participants represented diverse fields including agronomy, crop physiology, plant pathology, genetics, biology, horticulture, and plant breeding. 

The training aimed to strengthen participants’ technical competencies in rice root phenotyping through lectures, demonstrations, and immersive field and laboratory sessions focused on standardized methods for studying rice roots. 

Building Knowledge on Rice Root Research

The course opened with welcome remarks from Dr. Anilyn Maningas, Head of IRRI Education, followed by an opening message from the resource persons, Dr. Amelia Henry of CIRAD – French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development and Dr. Juan de la Cruz Jiménez Serna from the University of Copenhagen. 

Throughout the week, participants learned how to characterize soil-grown rice roots from both field and greenhouse experiments, apply sampling and analytical techniques for assessing root traits, and interpret root phenotyping data to support rice breeding and crop improvement efforts. 

Lecture sessions covered rice root research and its role in developing stress-tolerant rice varieties, as well as physiological adaptations of rice under flooded conditions. 

On the third day, Dr. Juan de la Cruz Jiménez Serna from the University of Copenhagen facilitated lectures and practical sessions on rice adaptations to flooded soils, root respiration, root porosity, apoplastic barriers, and radial oxygen loss. 

Learning Beyond the Classroom 

A key highlight of the training was its highly practical and hands-on design. 

Rather than limiting learning to classroom discussions, participants conducted activities in rice fields, greenhouses, and laboratories. These included soil coring, crown root sampling, root washing, root scanning, crown root counting, greenhouse lysimeter setup, hydraulic conductance measurements, root sectioning, anatomical analysis, and root hair scoring. 

Field activities were conducted at Field D24, where participants experienced firsthand the technical demands of root phenotyping under actual field conditions. 

Participants expressed appreciation for the strong emphasis on experiential learning. 

“This course is one of the best courses I registered [for]. More on hands-on practice than just PowerPoint presentations.” 

Another participant reflected on the intensity and memorable nature of the activities, sharing: 

“It’s definitely an experience that is unforgettable, the skills, the people and the heat.” 

Several participants also noted a deeper appreciation for the work involved in root research after observing IRRI staff and technicians in action. 

“Root washing is the biggest impression on me. The way IRRI technician has collected the sample is so cautious. I have improvement to do in my own research techniques and sample collecting.” 

One participant added: 

“I have a lot more understanding and respect for all the IRRI staff who prepared the seeds and samples for us after seeing the staff and the facilities in person.” 

Mini Symposium and Advanced Techniques Workshop 

On the fourth and fifth days of the training, participants attended a mini symposium and advanced techniques workshop that expanded their exposure to emerging research and innovations in rice root science. 

The sessions featured presentations and discussions on climate resilience, rice stress physiology, crop improvement, plant genomics, and root adaptations under different environmental conditions. Through these knowledge-sharing sessions, participants gained broader insights into how root traits contribute to stress tolerance, productivity, and sustainability in rice systems. 

In addition to research presentations, participants were introduced to advanced analytical and imaging techniques used in root studies, including specialized methods for root visualization, anatomical analysis, and gene expression investigations. 

These sessions complemented the practical training by allowing participants to connect the field and laboratory methods they learned during the course with current scientific advancements and ongoing research applications. 

One participant highlighted the value of this broader learning experience, sharing: 

“The course on rice root phenotyping was very informative and practical. It improved my understanding of root traits, phenotyping methods, and their application in crop improvement. The hands-on sessions and expert guidance were especially valuable. I now feel more confident to apply these skills in my research.” 

Another participant noted that the symposium and workshop provided useful perspectives for future work: 

“I have really learned many new things in this training. Everything was new to me but resource persons have made it very easy and understandable. I will be able to utilize this knowledge in my future research.” 

The mini symposium and workshop served as valuable platforms for participants to engage with current research directions, emerging technologies, and interdisciplinary approaches shaping the future of rice science. 

Advancing Global Capacity in Rice Research 

Through the Training Course on Rice Root Phenotyping, IRRI continues to strengthen global research capacity by equipping scientists and researchers with practical skills and advanced knowledge in rice root science. 

By combining classroom instruction with fieldwork, laboratory training, expert mentorship, and cultural immersion, the course provided participants with a comprehensive learning experience that supports future innovations in rice breeding, crop resilience, and sustainable agriculture. 

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Interested in similar training opportunities? Visit education.irri.org to learn more or email us at irri-education@cgiar.org.

LOS BAÑOS, Philippines — The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), through IRRI Education, trained 19 participants from the Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR), Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI), and Department of Agriculture -Bureau of Animal Industry (DA-BAI) on advancing innovation scaling strategies during a three-day course held on 21–23 April 2026 at the IRRI Headquarters, Los Banos, Laguna, Philippines. The training aimed to strengthen capacities in designing, implementing, and assessing scaling efforts to ensure agricultural innovations reach more farmers and generate lasting impact. 

At the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), the challenge is not only to develop innovations—but to ensure these innovations reach farmers, create impact, and change the system that hinders the improvement of the quality of living of the farmers. 

This was the driving focus of the Project UPSKILL training course on the “Introduction to Frameworks, Approaches, and Tools to Support the Co-Design and Implementation of Scaling Efforts” which was co-supported by the CGIAR Scaling for Impact Science Program. This is the second batch of this training series. 

Bridging the Gap Between Research and Real-World Impact 

In the Philippines, where agriculture remains central to livelihoods in rural areas, the gap between research outputs and farmer adoption can mean the difference between promising solutions and missed opportunities. 

In the opening program, Mr. Joell H. Lales, OIC Director of the Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Agricultural Research, grounded the training in the realities of Philippine agricultural development, emphasizing the need to move beyond generating research outputs toward ensuring that innovations are actually adopted, sustained, and beneficial to farmers and other end users. His message underscored a persistent challenge in the sector: promising technologies often remain underutilized when scaling pathways are not intentionally designed. 

Setting the stage for the three-day training, Dr. Madonna Casimero, lead of Project UPSKILL, provided participants with a course overview, highlighting the importance of building capacities not only in innovation development, but also in strategic scaling. Before diving into tools and approaches, Dr. Rica Joy Flor clarified a critical misconception where scaling is often solely about reaching greater numbers of end users. Instead, she unpacked the idea of systemic transformation through the interconnected concepts of Scaling Out, Scaling Up, and Scaling Deep. Through this, participants understand that effective scaling involves systems transformation, policy and institutional alignment, and shifts in behaviors, mindsets, and practices. Participants further explored how scaling can be made more deliberate and strategic, through key approaches such as Participatory Impact Pathway Analysis (PIPA), Innovation Systems Analysis, and Innovation Packaging and Scaling Readiness (IPSR). This enabled them to rethink how innovations can move from pilot initiatives to co-designed scaling strategies and more deliberate and strategic scaling. 

To translate concepts into action, Mr. Benedict Jardinero facilitated the exercise on developing scaling ambition statements, guiding participants in defining clear long-term impact goals for selected innovations. Meanwhile, Ms. Rowena Castillo and Ms. Abigail Elmido-Mabilangan deepened participants’ understanding of innovation packaging and scaling readiness, equipping them with practical frameworks for identifying bottlenecks, assessing enabling conditions, and strengthening pathways for scaling agricultural innovations. 

One participant reflected on how their organization already works with technological readiness evaluations, but IPSR helps to examine both innovation readiness and innovation use: 

“The IPSR [Innovation packages and Scaling Readiness] training was highly practical and insightful, especially in shifting the focus from technology readiness to scaling readiness… addressing the gap between research outputs and utilization.” 

Beyond the Linear Transfer of Knowledge: Co-Designing for Scaling 

Far from being purely theoretical, the training emphasized hands-on, collaborative learning. Shifting from traditional training formats where knowledge flows in one direction—from speaker to participant—this course intentionally shifted the learning dynamic toward peer-to-peer exchange and co-creation. In addition, participants worked in groups to analyze real innovations, identify bottlenecks, and co-design scaling strategies tailored to Philippine agricultural systems. 

Participants were not only learners but also facilitators of the process, taking turns leading key exercises. In the Participatory Impact Pathway Analysis (PIPA) sessions, one group facilitated stakeholder mapping while another engaged as participants, before switching roles to guide causal chain development. A similar structure was applied in the Innovation Packaging and Scaling Readiness (IPSR) sessions, where groups alternated in facilitating discussions on bottlenecks, solutions, and scaling readiness. They mapped stakeholders, traced impact pathways, and assessed readiness—experiencing firsthand the complexity of scaling in real-world contexts. 

This approach transformed the training into a shared learning space, where participants learned not just from resource persons, but from each other’s experiences, perspectives, and institutional contexts. It also strengthened facilitation skills—an essential competency for scaling efforts that require multi-stakeholder engagement. 

For many, this practical approach revealed why some innovations fail to take off: 

“It highlights the gaps why some of our innovations were stuck and it helps to identify solutions to that… ensuring that innovations are used by our target users.” 

Rethinking Success: From Outputs to Outcomes 

A key insight that emerged from the training was the need to move beyond traditional measures of success. Rather than focusing solely on outputs, participants were challenged to think in terms of long-term impact and sustained adoption. 

As one participant strongly emphasized: 

“We need to move away from shelved outputs but actually generate something useful for our farmers.” 

This realization underscores a broader shift in Philippine agricultural development—toward more intentional, demand-driven, and impact-oriented Research for Development (R4D). 

Building Capacity for Lasting Change 

The training not only strengthened technical knowledge but also built confidence among participants to apply scaling frameworks in their respective programs. With representation from various units of DA-BAR, the learning is expected to ripple outward—informing planning, evaluation, and implementation of agricultural initiatives nationwide. 

Participants described the course as engaging, practical, and directly relevant to their work, highlighting the value of interactive exercises and peer learning. 

From Learning to Action: A Commitment to Scale 

As the Philippines continues to navigate challenges in food security, climate resilience, and rural development, the ability to scale innovations effectively becomes increasingly critical. 

To ensure that learning translates into action, participants from different DA agencies and units within DA-BAR developed individual Learning Action Plans at the end of the course. These plans outline how they intend to apply scaling frameworks and tools in their respective roles and programs—and are to be reviewed and signed by their supervisors, reinforcing accountability and institutional support. 

Through this commitment, the training goes beyond knowledge transfer, serving as a catalyst for real change in how innovations are designed, assessed, and scaled. 

Because ultimately, scaling is not just about reaching more people—it is about improving lives, strengthening systems, and delivering impact where it matters most—especially for Filipino farmers. 

Interested in similar training opportunities? Visit education.irri.org to learn more or email us at irri-education@cgiar.org.

Hyderabad, India — The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), in partnership with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research–Indian Institute of Rice Research (ICAR-IIRR), launched a five-day national training course on genomic predictions and data-driven crop breeding on 24–28 November 2025 in Hyderabad. 

The training brings together 37 plant breeders, geneticists, research scholars, and early-career scientists from across the country to strengthen their skills in modern genomic tools essential for rice improvement. The program combines lectures and hands-on sessions covering quantitative genetics, statistical genomics, predictive modeling, and genomic selection. Participants are working with actual breeding datasets to learn R programming, mixed models, relationship matrices, G × E interaction analysis, and genomic prediction methodologies. 

During the opening ceremony, ICAR-IIRR Director Dr. Raman Meenakshi Sundaram emphasized the importance of genomic innovations in building resilient and productive cropping systems. He highlighted the need for open-access data, collaborative research, and continuous capacity development to advance national food security objectives. 

The course is led by IRRI Rice Breeding Innovation (RBI) scientists Dr. Waseem Hussain, Dr. Mahender Anumalla, and Ms. Margaret Ciar, who are guiding participants in applying genomic selection and predictive breeding tools in real-world breeding pipelines. 

IRRI Senior Scientist and Regional Breeding Lead–South Asia Dr. Vikas Kumar Singh said the training reinforces the critical role of integrating genomic information with data-driven decision-making. He noted that the program equips India’s next generation of breeders to fast-track varietal development and supports IRRI’s ongoing commitment to strengthening national breeding capacity. 

This year’s edition builds on earlier runs of the course first launched at IRRI Headquarters in the Philippines in 2024 and replicated at ICAR-IIRR the same year. The program has since attracted participants from Asia and Africa and is regarded as one of IRRI’s most impactful capacity development initiatives. 

Participants are expected to apply genomic prediction, data-driven breeding, and optimized crossing strategies in their institutional programs following the training, contributing to India’s efforts to advance agricultural innovation and sustainability. 

Interested in similar training opportunities? Visit education.irri.org to learn more or email us at irri-education@cgiar.org.

Varanasi, India — The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) launched a five-day national training program on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in rice-based systems at its South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC) in Varanasi on 17–21 November 2025. The program aims to strengthen national capacity in accurately measuring methane emissions and identifying climate-smart mitigation strategies for rice cultivation.

Rice fields in South and Southeast Asia account for more than half of total national methane emissions, making precise monitoring essential for achieving climate targets. The training, “Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Rice Systems: Procedures and Measurement Standards,” equips participants with practical skills in field gas sampling, laboratory analysis, data evaluation, and emission calculations. 

The course covers key learning areas including climate change impacts on rice production, mechanisms of GHG emissions in rice systems, IPCC-aligned inventory methods, alternate wetting and drying (AWD) mitigation practices, field setup and sampling protocols, laboratory analysis procedures, and country-specific case studies. Hands-on sessions guide participants through step-by-step measurement and reporting processes based on IRRI’s established research methodologies. 

Participants represent a broad mix of public and private institutions, non-governmental organizations, and NARES partners. Institutions include the Indian Institute of Rice Research (IIRR), Kerala Agricultural University, Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, Punjab Agricultural University, Rallis India Limited, Eco Agripreneurs Pvt. Ltd., The Nature Conservancy, and RestoreEarth Solutions. 

The training opened on 17 November with remarks from Dr. Anilyn D. Mannings, Head of IRRI Education, who welcomed participants, and Dr. Anthony Fulford, Soil Scientist, who addressed attendees on behalf of ISARC. Dr. Ando Radanielson, Senior Scientist and Environment and Climate Change Specialist, presented the course framework. 

ISARC Director Dr. Sudhanshu Singh underscored the significance of evidence-based strategies for reducing GHG emissions in rice systems. “South Asia must lead with scientific approaches that reduce emissions while maintaining productivity. This program is a timely and impactful initiative in that direction,” he said. 

IRRI Research Director Dr. Virendra Kumar, who inaugurated the program, emphasized the importance of building a collaborative community of scientists, researchers, and policymakers capable of accelerating climate action through rice-based systems. 

Dr. Pratap Bhattacharya, Head of the Crop Production Division, ICAR–Central Rice Research Institute, highlighted the global importance of accurate GHG monitoring. “Scientific precision in GHG measurements is essential for shaping effective agricultural policies and mitigation strategies, not only for India but worldwide,” he stated. 

Throughout the week, participants engaged in field demonstrations, laboratory work, and data interpretation exercises designed to strengthen their capacity to support national climate goals. The program reinforces IRRI and ISARC’s commitment to advancing climate-smart agriculture through rigorous research, accurate measurement, and strong institutional partnerships. 

Interested in similar training opportunities? Visit education.irri.org to learn more or email us at irri-education@cgiar.org.

Varanasi, 20 September 2025: The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC), Varanasi, in collaboration with IRRI Education, has successfully concluded a four-day advanced training program from 17 September to 20 September 2025 on “Advanced Approaches to Soil Health Management in South Asia’s Rice-Based Cropping Systems.”

The program brought together participants from leading agricultural universities and ICAR institutes, including ICAR-IISS Bhopal, ICAR-IIFSR Modipuram, BHU-Varanasi, SHUATS Prayagraj, Punjab Agricultural University, and others. Renowned experts from BHU, ICAR-NBAIM, ICAR-IARI, IFDC, and ISARC contributed as resource persons.

Speaking at the inauguration, Dr. Sudhanshu Singh, Director of ISARC, remarked that soil is the foundation of our food systems. Through this program, IRRI is building regional expertise and preparing the next generation of professionals to safeguard soil health for sustainable food security.

Unlike routine training courses, this program was designed as an in-depth, blended learning experience that combined lectures, hands-on activities, field visits, and laboratory demonstrations. Key sessions included digital tools for soil and crop management, where ISARC soil scientists Dr. Anthony Fulford and Dr. Ajay Mishra led sessions on the Rice Crop Manager (RCM), a farmer-friendly decision-support tool designed to optimize nutrient use efficiency and enhance productivity in rice-based systems.

Participants also explored the scope of soil spectroscopy for rapid and cost-effective soil analysis, with demonstrations at ISARC’s advanced laboratory highlighting its potential to support farmers with timely and precise soil health information and offering scalable solutions for better nutrient management.

A session on soil health governance and policy, delivered by Dr. Yashpal Sahrawat, Director-Resilience and Environment at the International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC), USA, emphasized the importance of policy frameworks and governance mechanisms such as the Bharat Soil Health Policy, with a timeline of phased implementation by 2047. This session included discussions on institutional support for promoting sustainable soil health practices at both national and regional levels, and called for low-cost, incentivized soil health policy.

In addition to classroom sessions, participants engaged in exposure visits to progressive farmers’ fields in Varanasi, where they observed integrated soil and water management practices in real-world settings. They also worked with soil health kits and conducted lab-based analyses to strengthen their technical expertise.

By combining scientific insights, digital innovations, and policy perspectives, the training equipped soil scientists, agronomists, extension professionals, and faculty members with actionable knowledge and practical skills to advance climate-smart, farmer-centric soil health management strategies across South Asia.

Interested in similar training opportunities? Visit education.irri.org to learn more or email us at irri-education@cgiar.org.

Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines (11 July 2025) — Measurable impacts are essential in policy and program development to achieve transparency and accountability. Impact evaluation plays a crucial role in determining whether a particular intervention has made a difference.

This was the core focus of IRRI’s Workshop on Impact Evaluation and Causal Inference held from 8 to 11 July 2025 in IRRI’s Headquarters. This four-day training equipped participants with tools to assess the effectiveness of interventions. Impact evaluation focuses not only on outcomes but also on attribution, whether the observed changes in target key indicators can be confidently linked to the intervention itself. This approach helps guide decisions on which programs should be scaled, redesigned, or discontinued. The course addressed a key challenge faced by development professionals: how to generate credible evidence about what works, why it works, and at what cost.

In her opening remarks, Dr. Anilyn Maningas, Head of IRRI Education, underscored the training’s relevance across sectors. She noted that in a complex and resource-constrained environment, it is more critical than ever to understand what works and why. “This workshop aims to equip you with the tools and frameworks necessary to answer these pressing questions using rigorous evaluation methods and causal inference techniques,” she said.

This call for evidence-based action was echoed by Dr. Patrick S. Ward, Associate Professor at the University of Florida. He explained that decision-makers often face several competing policy options, and that selecting a course of action should be based not on ideology or anecdote, but on strong and credible evidence. Grounding policies in well-designed impact evaluations, he added, is essential to making informed and effective choices.

A key component of the training was the Theory of Change, a tool that helps map out how and why an intervention is expected to produce desired results. Participants learned how this framework can clarify assumptions, identify relevant indicators, and support the design of high-quality, policy-relevant evaluations.

Trainees were also introduced to designing, implementing, and analyzing randomized controlled trials, and quasi-experimental methods such as difference-in-differences (DiD), instrumental variables (IV), and regression discontinuity designs (RDD). These rigorous impact assessment methods help strengthen the credibility of evaluation findings by isolating causal effects.

Adding a practical lens, Dr. Gregmar Galinato, Professor at Washington State University, used case studies to demonstrate how to evaluate the suitability of various quasi-experimental methods.

Meanwhile, Prof. Suzette Pedroso Galinato, Associate Professor and Extension Specialist at Washington State University Extension, emphasized the importance of evaluating interventions from the standpoint of those most affected: the farmers. She shared, “Economics is like a ribbon that ties the project together. Because after all the field activities, data collection, and information dissemination, the main concern of the growers is how the intervention affects their farm environment.” Therefore, understanding the tangible impact of interventions is key to designing meaningful and responsive programs. Prof. Galinato also discussed how to determine whether the intervention introduced to the target beneficiaries is more cost-effective than other alternatives by conducting cost-effectiveness and cost-benefit analyses.

The workshop serves as a timely and relevant initiative as IRRI introduced its 2025 to 2030 Strategy, which emphasizes measurable impact, evidence-informed action, and results that benefit farmers, communities, and food systems. Building on the success of this pilot run, the team plans to offer the course again next year to reach a broader group of professionals working to improve agricultural development outcomes.

Interested in similar training opportunities? Visit education.irri.org to learn more or email us at irri-education@cgiar.org.

The Rice: Research to Production (RR2P) course returned in 2025 for its 18th run, reaffirming its commitment to immersive, hands-on learning that bridges the gap between science and practice. This year’s edition brought together a diverse cohort to study rice research and production at IRRI’s Headquarters. For three weeks, participants explored the entire rice value chain through lectures, laboratory and field activities, and community engagement.

Among the participants were Yvonne Njoki Ndaru from Kenya and Jongho Bae from South Korea. Sponsored by the IRRI-DANIDA project in Africa and the Global Rice Research Foundation (GRRF) respectively, both scholars entered the program with unique academic backgrounds and motivations. Yvonne is currently pursuing a PhD in Environmental Science at Chuka University, with her research centered on how watering regimes and crop establishment methods affect greenhouse gas emissions in rice fields. Jongho, a Master’s student in Agricultural Economics at Purdue University, focuses on the role of rice trade in national food security and its implications for global inequality.

Despite coming from different disciplines, both participants were connected by a shared desire to make agriculture more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable.

An Eye-Opening Start

For Jongho, joining RR2P was a step toward bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and the day-to-day realities of farmers. “I wanted to better understand how agriculture actually works on the ground, and what challenges farmers face in their daily lives,” he said. As someone who had primarily studied agricultural trade and policy, RR2P offered an opportunity to explore the scientific and practical aspects of rice production that he had not previously encountered.

Yvonne, meanwhile, had long admired IRRI’s work and viewed the program as a vital step in her journey as a researcher. “The program’s emphasis on combining rigorous academic learning with real-world field experience immediately resonated with me,” she noted. At the start of the program, she felt a mix of excitement and nervousness, especially upon seeing participants from various countries and disciplines. “This diversity created an incredibly rich learning environment right from the start,” she added.

Learning by Doing

RR2P stands out for its strong emphasis on experiential learning. Participants were not just learning theories in a classroom; they were out in the field, engaging directly with the systems, practices, and people that define rice research and production.

Yvonne, whose work focuses on greenhouse gas emissions in rice fields, appreciated the depth and scope of the technical sessions. She found the hands-on disease and pest diagnostics particularly useful and was inspired by sessions on plant breeding. “Learning about breeding and Rapid Generation Advancement was especially meaningful. I had always admired plant breeders, and until this program, I had no experience in that area. However, by the end of RR2P, I felt empowered and well-versed in breeding practice,” she shared.

For Jongho, the course offered an in-depth look at the science behind the crop he had previously only studied through policy and trade data. The sessions on seed systems, soil management, and pest control were unfamiliar at first, but these sparked a strong interest. “These topics, though technical, were the building blocks of rice production, and I realized how essential they are to understanding the crop in its full complexity,” he said.

Both found that field visits brought technical knowledge to life. The combination of classroom and field-based learning helped them connect scientific insights with the on-the-ground experiences of farmers, a connection that will help continue shaping their work moving forward.

Ground-Level Realities

One of the most defining experiences for both Yvonne and Jongho was the visit to farming communities in Victoria, Laguna, and the Banaue Rice Terraces. For Jongho, a conversation with a local rice farmer in Victoria left an impact. “He had achieved a good harvest, but what he shared with me was far from encouraging,” Jongho recalled. “Despite producing quality rice, he explained that he often had to sell it at extremely low prices. The reason wasn’t poor demand or weather—it was a lack of access to post-harvest facilities like drying and milling. Without those, farmers are forced to sell immediately to middlemen, who take most of the profit.”

Further, that moment changed the way Jongho viewed his own field. “I saw that behind every trend or statistic are real people—whose livelihoods are often affected by infrastructure gaps and limited access to value chains. It was a clear and personal reminder that research must be grounded in the real challenges people face. That single exchange helped reframe the way I see the role of policy and economics—not as abstract forces, but as tools that can either exclude or empower.”

On the other hand, Yvonne described the rice planting activity in the IRRI experimental fields as a powerful turning point. “As we stepped into the muddy paddies, I felt an immediate connection with the farmers who perform this labor daily,” she reflected. Afterwards, she spoke with farmers in Victoria, Laguna and Banaue. “They shared their experiences, challenges, and hopes for better yields. Understanding their daily realities and linking them with the planting experience underscored the need for research that is not only scientifically sound but also adaptable to local contexts. It reminded me that innovation must be driven by farmers’ lived experiences, not abstract theories, if we truly want to achieve sustainable outcomes.”

Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration

The diversity of the course’s cohort also led to dynamic exchanges of ideas. Yvonne recalled a group discussion where participants debated solutions to food insecurity and climate change. While some advocated for early-maturing rice varieties, others emphasized sustainable farming practices. The exchange, she said, revealed the potential of combining technical and environmental approaches to address complex problems.

Similarly, Jongho worked on a project focused on salinity in Vietnam. While his group members explored breeding salt-tolerant varieties, he emphasized the importance of ensuring that innovations translate into economic benefits for farmers. “Future agricultural solutions will require close collaboration between economists and scientists. Real progress depends on our ability to listen to one another, bridge perspectives, and work toward shared goals,” he said.

Growth Through Challenge

Both participants acknowledged the demanding pace and intensity of RR2P. Jongho initially struggled with the rural environment and unfamiliar routines. Yet over time, these challenges helped him grow. “I became more grounded in how I see my role as a researcher,” he shared.

Yvonne also found the schedule packed, but she faced the challenge with resilience and curiosity. “Whenever I encountered a concept, I couldn’t immediately grasp, I made it a point to delve deeper through additional research,” she said. The supportive community of peers and mentors made the learning process both rigorous and rewarding.

Looking Ahead

As they return to their home institutions, Yvonne and Jongho carry forward not only new knowledge but also a renewed sense of purpose. Yvonne plans to collaborate with researchers and farmers in Kenya to develop context-specific, sustainable practices. Jongho, on the other hand, intends to integrate the lessons from RR2P into his work on agricultural policy and trade, ensuring that his research remains grounded in the real challenges that communities face.

Their stories reflect the spirit of RR2P, a program that brings together aspiring changemakers and empowers them to influence a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future for the rice-based agri-food sector.

Through the continued support of partners like the IRRI-Danish International Development Agency (DANIDA) project and the Global Rice Research Foundation (GRRF), programs like RR2P remain accessible to the next generation of leaders in rice science. While the 2025 edition may have concluded, its lessons will continue to shape the personal and professional journeys of those who took part.

As Yvonne shared, “RR2P is a journey of discovery, collaboration, and impact, where science meets practice to shape the future of rice research and sustainable farming.”

While Jongho and Yvonne’s reflections offer a glimpse into the impact of the course, they were just two of many. The 2025 RR2P cohort included professionals with backgrounds ranging from agronomy and plant breeding to agricultural economics and development. Coming from institutions such as the University of California Davis, Yunnan Agricultural University, Purdue University, Chuka University, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, National Institute for Agrarian and Veterinary Research (INIAV) in Portugal, and the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT), the group brought together a rich mix of experiences that enabled interactive discussions, cross-cultural exchanges, and shared learning, connections that they are now carrying into their own work.

Interested in joining this journey? Be part of the next RR2P cohort and gain the knowledge, skills, and perspective needed to make meaningful contributions to global rice systems. The program also welcomes support for participants who may need assistance to take part. Visit education.irri.org to learn more or email us at irri-education@cgiar.org.