Human Capital Management in the Cooperative

On July 11-12, 2024, The Co-operative College of the Philippines hosted a transformative training program titled *People Power Play: Driving Cooperative Sustainability through Human Capital,* bringing together passionate participants from various cooperatives across the nation. The event underscored the critical role of human capital in sustaining and advancing cooperative organizations, emphasizing that the success of cooperatives lies in the strength and development of their people.

The training featured expert facilitators Ms. Elizha Corpus, Managing Director and Lead Consultant of Elizha Corpus Consulting, and Dr. Dynah Basuil, a distinguished professor from the Asian Institute of Management. Entrusted by the Co-operative College of the Philippines for their expertise, they delivered insightful discussions and dynamic sessions aimed at empowering cooperative leaders to prioritize and effectively manage their most valuable resource: their members and employees.

Participants explored the essential connection between human capital management and cooperative sustainability. They engaged in interactive sessions on innovative recruitment and retention strategies tailored to cooperative principles, ensuring alignment between organizational goals and the values of democracy, equity, and solidarity. The training also emphasized the importance of leadership and professional development, equipping attendees with actionable strategies to nurture talent and build a culture of continuous growth within their cooperatives.

Key topics included tools for fostering effective communication and collaboration among members, which are fundamental to a thriving cooperative environment. Participants were also guided on how to cultivate a cooperative culture that invests in people, recognizing that a motivated and well-supported workforce drives both organizational resilience and long-term success.

The training concluded with participants feeling inspired and empowered, carrying with them renewed insights and practical tools to apply in their cooperative journey. Beyond technical knowledge, the program instilled a deeper appreciation for the human aspect of cooperatives, reminding participants that at the heart of every successful cooperative are individuals working together toward shared goals.

By hosting initiatives like this, The Co-operative College of the Philippines continues to champion the advancement of cooperative leadership, ensuring that the sector remains sustainable, people-centered, and impactful in building stronger communities.