MARIKINA City, Philippines. The Cooperative Development Authority-National Capital Region Extension Office (CDA NCREO) and Marikina Polytechnic College (MPC) came together to explore avenues of collaboration in fostering cooperative development. This strategic partnership aims to enhance the Cooperative Development Program, leveraging the strengths of both entities to empower cooperative organizations and advance socio-economic progress in the region.

Central to the agenda was the identification of areas where CDA NCREO and MPC could collaborate effectively. Both parties expressed a commitment to developing comprehensive educational programs tailored to the specific needs of cooperatives, equipping members with the knowledge and skills necessary for sustainable growth and resilience.

Furthermore, discussions revolved around the design and implementation of trainings, courses, workshops, and seminars on various aspects of cooperative management, governance, and entrepreneurship. Leveraging MPC’s academic expertise and CDA NCREO’s industry knowledge, these initiatives aim to empower cooperatives with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s dynamic economic landscape.

Beyond education and training, the partnership also seeks to foster a culture of innovation and collaboration within the cooperative sector. Plans were discussed to facilitate knowledge-sharing platforms, including conferences, forums, and collaborative research projects, aimed at promoting best practices and driving continuous improvement within the cooperative movement.

By Ryan Andrew F. Dela Luna