The recently concluded 3-day Training-Workshop on Events Management for RDE Staff in CAR, hosted by the Cordillera Consortium for Agriculture Aquatic Resources Research and Development (CorCAARRD) and held from August 21–23, 2024, at the Villa Silvina Hotel and Restaurant in Baguio City, Philippines, was a resounding success. The workshop was designed to equip participants with the foundational knowledge and advanced skills necessary to plan, execute, and evaluate successful events. The training was comprehensive, covering a wide range of topics from event planning principles to advanced communication strategies.
Day 1: Foundation of Events Management
The first day of the workshop laid the groundwork for understanding the principles of events management. The session began with an in-depth discussion on the Understanding Events Management Principles, where participants gained insights into the core concepts and theories that underpin successful event planning. This was followed by a presentation on Event Planning Code of Conduct and Ethics, which highlighted the importance of professionalism and ethical considerations in the events industry.
The morning session continued with a focus on Crafting and Managing Event Budgets and Financial Tracking Tools and Techniques. The speakers provided practical advice on budget planning, cost control, and financial management, emphasizing the use of modern tools and techniques for effective financial tracking.
In the afternoon, the discussion shifted to Identifying and Mitigating Risks in Event Planning and Developing Safety Protocols and Emergency Response Plans. The speakers shared strategies for risk assessment and contingency planning, ensuring that participants were well-prepared to handle unforeseen challenges.
The day concluded with a hands-on activity where participants crafted a Basic Event Plan with Budget. This practical exercise allowed participants to apply the knowledge gained throughout the day, providing valuable experience in event planning and budgeting.
Day 2: Skill Development in Events and Risk in Events
The second day of the workshop focused on enhancing participants' skills in event promotion and communication. The morning session began with Social Media Strategies for Event Promotion, where speakers shared insights on leveraging social media platforms to maximize event visibility and engagement. This was followed by a discussion on Utilizing Online Platforms for Registration and Ticketing, highlighting the benefits and best practices of using online tools for event management.
The afternoon session delved into Gmail Management: Unlocking Advanced Features for Optimal Use of Filters and Rules, Advanced Search Techniques, Labeling, Scheduling, and Maximizing Google Calendar. The speakers provided practical tips on how to effectively manage emails and schedules, enhancing productivity and organization.
The day ended with discussions on Strategies for Effective Communication with Stakeholders and Key Performance Indicators for Event Success. Participants learned how to communicate effectively with various stakeholders and identify key metrics for measuring event success.
Day 3: Role-Playing Exercises and Finalization of Activity Designs
The final day of the workshop was dedicated to practical exercises and the finalization of activity designs. Participants engaged in Role-Playing Exercises for Communication Skills, which provided a realistic simulation of communication challenges and solutions in event management.
In the afternoon, participants worked on the Finalization and Submission of Activity Designs and Re-Entry Action Plan. This exercise allowed participants to consolidate their learning and develop a comprehensive action plan for implementing their new skills and knowledge in their respective organizations.
The workshop concluded with a Post-Training Test and a Closing Program, which included feedback from participants and the awarding of certificates. The performance of the speakers was commendable, as they delivered informative and engaging sessions that kept participants motivated and interested throughout the workshop.
The training workshop on Events Management was highly beneficial, providing participants with a wealth of knowledge and practical skills. Key takeaways included a deep understanding of foundational principles such as planning, budgeting, and risk management, enhanced skills in communication, social media promotion, and using advanced tools like Gmail and Google Calendar, valuable practical experience through hands-on activities and role-playing exercises, and actionable insights from developing activity designs and re-entry action plans for implementing learning in their organizations.
The outcomes of the workshop were evident in the feedback from participants, who expressed their satisfaction with the content and delivery of the sessions. The awarding of certificates marked the successful completion of the workshop, with participants leaving equipped with the knowledge and skills to plan and execute successful events.
The 3-day Training-Workshop on Events Management for RDE Staff in CAR, hosted by CorCAARRD and held at the Villa Silvina Hotel and Restaurant in Baguio City, Philippines, was a transformative experience for all participants. The comprehensive topics, expert speakers, and practical exercises ensured that participants gained valuable insights and skills that will enhance their event management capabilities. The workshop was not only intellectually stimulating but also provided a platform for networking and sharing experiences among peers. The organizers and speakers deserve commendation for their outstanding performance, making the workshop a resounding success. Source: Melinda S. Redona - Research and Development Office