LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte (PIA) — The Ilocos Norte Youth Development Office (INYDO) has launched a set of newly developed training modules aimed at preparing the next generation of Ilocano leaders.
Targeting individuals aged 15 to 24, the initiative is expected to equip the youth with essential skills and knowledge for future leadership roles.
The modules are part of the province’s broader plan to establish the Sirib Academy Youth Hub, which aims to develop a centralized space where Ilocano youth can engage in holistic, values-based learning.
The program, aligned with the Philippine Youth Development Plan (PYDP), focuses on governance and active citizenship, with key objectives centered on developing essential life skills and fostering youth participation in local governance.
These programs are built around modules covering key topics such as economics, entrepreneurship, leadership formation, and health.
Lawyer James Ceasar Ventura, chief of the National Youth Commission’s (NYC) Regional Youth Development Division, said that these modules cover key areas including health, economic empowerment, and youth leadership.
“Our program focuses on youth employment and reflective learning. You’ll be given time to reflect on your goals, clarify your aspirations, and discover the unique value of your role in society,” he added.
The INYDO also conducts pilot tests and regular assessments to ensure the modules’ relevance and effectiveness in addressing current youth needs.
These activities began on May 8 and will continue to guide improvements to the training content.
The modules will soon be distributed to existing scholars, partner agencies such as the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and key provincial offices including the Provincial Health Office and the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Office.
These modules will be delivered through face-to-face sessions and also provided in flash drives to ensure accessibility and ease of distribution.
Karl Adrian Lista, from Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte, expressed excitement over the new resource material.
“I think the Sirib youth training module will help me discover my strengths and encourage me to step up in my community. Young people can truly be agents of change,” he said.
Also, the module directly addresses youth concerns such as unemployment by equipping them with practical skills in entrepreneurship, leadership, and economic literacy.
With these tools, young people can create their own opportunities, make informed career choices, and actively participate in building their communities.
With the release of these modules, the INYDO affirms its commitment to empowering the youth—paving the way for self-reliance, leadership, and inclusive development in the province. (CCMT/MTDA, PIA Ilocos Norte)
