CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) — Strengthening its commitment to agricultural development, the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center (ATI)-10 has trained over 8,000 clients and certified new learning sites for agriculture (LSAs) as part of its efforts to enhance agricultural extension services in 2024. The achievements were highlighted during its 38th Founding Anniversary, celebrated on February 6-7 with the theme “Youth in Agriculture: Cultivating Innovations Through Partnerships.”
“We were able to reach 8,000 clients that we served. Around 17 percent are extension workers, 16 percent are youth, and 68 percent are farmers and other enthusiasts that we trained in our services. We always want to give timely interventions. We make sure that timely interventions are effective in our plans and projects this year and that they will benefit all our clients across the value chain,” ATI-10 Center Director Maria Lydia Echavez said.
She added that the institute aims for tangible solutions that translate into the betterment of their clients’ lives. Thus, the center director urged their partners to commit themselves to cultivating partnerships that inspire growth and embrace innovation.
“I hope that we are guided by the principles of innovation, collaboration, and unwavering commitment in professionalizing the agricultural extension system and agricultural extension workers, empowering our farmers and youth, and creating an enticing agricultural landscape for the youth in the region,” Echavez said.
A major component of the celebration was the awarding of newly certified LSAs and the turnover of financial assistance and Swine Industry Recovery Project (SIRP) funds. The recipients of the SIRP fund included the local government units of Maramag, Bukidnon, and Mahinog, Camiguin. Scholars and interns also shared how ATI-10’s programs transformed their lives during the Kamustahan with Scholars session.
Highlighting the significance of collaboration, ATI-10 OIC Assistant Center Director Efren Macario stressed that innovation and partnerships are crucial in addressing challenges such as the aging farmer population.
“For 38 years, we’ve been dedicated to empowering our stakeholders through a resilient and responsive agriculture and fisheries extension system. We’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible potential of young people and the transformative power of agriculture. But we also recognize the challenges that lie ahead. We know that to secure the future of our food systems, we must inspire and empower the next generation of agricultural leaders,” he said.
Macario further noted that the anniversary served as a platform to explore fresh ideas, strengthen partnerships, and make agriculture a more attractive career path for young people. “This anniversary is not just a reflection on our past achievements. We’re here to explore new ideas, forge stronger partnerships, and develop concrete strategies to make agriculture a truly attractive career option to young people. We want to showcase the exciting possibilities that exist within the agricultural landscape,” he said.
In line with knowledge-sharing and skill development, ATI-10 launched Bahandi: Batang Agricultural Extensionist (BAE) 2 and unveiled the cover of Gastronomica 2 and the LSA Compendium. The event also featured chATIme: MediaCon, a media engagement session, along with a baking workshop and contest.
AgriKids sa BALAI (Bringing Agri-enterprise Livelihood and Innovation), OA Plot Twist, ATIng Laro ng Lahi, and PRAISE Night were among the activities that added to the festive atmosphere. These activities aimed to further engage the youth and promote agricultural appreciation.
Through its ongoing efforts, Echavez said ATI-10 remains steadfast in its mission to enhance agricultural extension services, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for the sector and its stakeholders. (RTP/PIA-10)
