The development and testing of this Manual owes much to many people in many countries. Firstly, we acknowledge with deep gratitude the many rural women who inspired and taught us in China, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, Cambodia, Nepal, Bangladesh and Pakistan. Secondly, we are indebted to the field workers and supervisors of the above countries who have provided us not only with insights but have inspired us with their dedication and perseverance. Thirdly, there are individuals who have helped us in the conceptualization, testing, revisions and finalization of this Manual. They are the following:
Aris Alip, who helped us during the conceptualization stage and in the structuring of the workshop design;
The Capiz Province "Women Population and Development" Staff especially Lolit Villareal, Connie Fagtanan and Anna Leal who allowed us to use their province as a social laboratory and for sharing their experiences with the initial group of Core Trainers from China;
Cora Bakker who provided critical and useful comments on the design;
The Core Trainers in China, especially Chen Xiufang Shi Luzhang, Yan Guifan, who especially at the testing period were most helpful in their comments and in consolidating the results of the testing;
Ma Yong for his patient translations from English to Chinese and vice versa during the testing period and the finalization of this Manual;
Song Jing for secretarial support.
