Agricultural research

Evaluation covers the period 1/80-3/81 and is based on an attached special evaluation (XD-AAJ-313-A). Progress toward planned outputs has generally been good. Farm-level multidisciplinary research teams now number 5 of the targeted 7 and farm-based research now represents over 70% of all trials. Delivery of research results to the extension service has been effected in four regions. Development of a long-range national research plan has been hindered by PNIA"s inability to plan effectively at the regional level and integrate such plans at the national level, as well as by PNIA"s personnel and budgetary problems (the latter due to Government of Honduras cutbacks). To address the problems facing PNIA, USAID/H intends, in the short run, to provide limited logistic support to 2-year research programs submitted by regional programs within PNIA. USAID/H will also discuss with PNIA long-range plans to establish a more stable administrative, budgetary, and personnel context for research. Action decisions are to: prepare work plans for three regions (project budget will provide limited logistic support, technical assistance, and training on the regional level); seek technical assistance for Research Planning (short-term) and for the Technical Support Unit; and have USAID/H and the GOH consider the creation of an autonomous research extension institute.