Butuan City, September 4, 2024 – The CDA Region XIII Extension Office kicked off an important 8-day Certification Program for Cooperative Development Officers (CDOs) on September 3, 2024, at the Almont Hotel in Butuan City. This comprehensive training will continue until September 6, 2024, for its first leg, with a second session scheduled from September 17-20, 2024.

The program is being attended by thirty CDOs representing various municipalities, cities, and provinces across the Caraga region. The initiative is supported by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, with Mr. Lowell Sareno present to represent the partner non-governmental organization.

Under the leadership of Dr. Monatao Honeya R. Alawi, PhD, the CDA is implementing this program in line with Memorandum Circular 2023-12. The primary objective is to enhance the capabilities of newly appointed or designated CDOs in the Basic Cooperative Courses.

As part of the program, participants were given a pre-test to assess their current knowledge and readiness, as their role involves overseeing the development of cooperatives within their respective jurisdictions. Successful participants will receive a Certificate of Completion, and those who pass the final assessment will be awarded a Certificate of Authority. The latter will enable them to conduct basic cooperative courses within their areas.

In her opening remarks, Director Alawi highlighted the crucial role of CDOs in educating and empowering cooperatives. She underscored the significance of the certification program, describing it as both timely and relevant. “The CDOs here today have been selected for their dedication to a noble mission,” she said.

The first day of the program was marked by enthusiasm and engagement, setting a positive tone for the rest of the training. The CDA’s initiative aims to strengthen the cooperative sector by equipping these officers with essential skills and knowledge, ultimately fostering growth and development across the Caraga region.