Authors : Kimberly Rose C. Martin

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 3 - March

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/2v98dtmj

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/4bacwhbv

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26mar725

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : Higher education institutions play a vital role in promoting community development through extension programs that transfer scientific knowledge, practical skills, and technologies to local communities. At Isabela State University– Cabagan Campus, the Bachelor of Science in Biology program under the College of Science actively implements community extension initiatives that aim to promote environmental awareness, health practices, and livelihood opportunities among partner communities. This study assessed the impact of selected extension programs implemented by the BS Biology program in partner barangays. Specifically, the research evaluated two major initiatives: the Medicinal and Food Plants Nursery Project and the Kabutihang Kabuhayan para sa Kababaihan (KKK): Mushroom Production Project. A descriptive research design was employed, and data were collected from 65 community participants using a structured impact study questionnaire. Descriptive statistical tools, including frequency, percentage, and weighted mean, were utilized to analyze the data. The findings revealed that most respondents were female, married, and had attained either elementary or high school education. The majority of participants actively engaged in the extension activities, with most attending four or more training sessions. Results indicated that the programs had a very high impact on improving participants’ knowledge, skills, and confidence in applying the practices learned. Respondents also reported that the training contributed positively to their productivity and livelihood activities. Furthermore, participants perceived that the extension programs contributed to community development, and that the practices introduced could be sustained over time. Despite the positive outcomes, several challenges were identified, including limited resources, financial constraints, and time limitations in applying the learned practices. Overall, the results demonstrate that the extension programs significantly contributed to knowledge transfer, livelihood improvement, and community empowerment. The study recommends the expansion of extension initiatives, increased institutional and community support, and the implementation of additional livelihood-oriented training programs to further enhance community development.

Keywords : Community Extension, Impact Assessment, Knowledge Transfer, Livelihood Development, Community Development, Mushroom Production.

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