Starlyn Binahon Pasco, an Educational Assistance for Youth in Agriculture (EAsY Agri) scholar at the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), recently graduated Magna Cum Laude from Central Mindanao University (CMU). Pasco, who hails from Impasugong, Bukidnon, took up a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, Major in Agricultural Extension.
“I believe that, being the eldest child in the family, I take on the responsibility of following in my father’s footsteps. My father is a farmer, and I could have been prouder of myself if it meant helping him in his work that sustains our family. Opportunities come only once, so grab them and grip them hard,” said Pasco, expressing her gratitude to ATI for providing her with the opportunity to pursue an agriculture course and receive the scholarship.
She has taken this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity because she believes it will not only aid her financially in her studies, but also provide her with advantages and greater opportunities to get involved in agriculture soon.
The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) designed the EAsY Agri Program to support smallholder farmers and fishers by providing scholarship opportunities for higher education in agriculture-related fields. This program aims to enhance the socio-economic status of families involved in agriculture and fisheries by providing access to quality education and training.
By supporting the education of smallholder farmers and fishers, the EAsY Agri Program contributes to the improvement and competitiveness of Philippine agriculture. This ultimately helps in achieving food security and alleviating the socio-economic challenges faced by families in the agriculture and fisheries sector. The program plays a crucial role in empowering these communities by providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge to improve their livelihoods and contribute to the country’s agricultural development.
The program aims to produce more scholars and agriculture graduates from state universities, as well as agricultural professionals and new breeds of farmers who will operate agribusiness enterprises. The ATI-10 Center Director, Maria Lydia A. Echavez, and the Development Management Officer, Jhoylie Mae Rosales-Caumban, respectively, served as the focal person and alternate focal person for the program.
“My goal before was solely to focus on working for my family after I graduated. But now, as an aspiring professional agriculturist, I have seen how vast the change could be in this field if I worked for my country. It made me realize that agriculture is not only a short-term goal but a lifetime investment in yourself, your family, and the country,” Pasco said.
After finishing her studies, Pasco plans to work in her beloved Impasugong, sharing her knowledge not only with the farmers but also with the youth to encourage their interest in farming.
When pressed about what made her succeed in the academe and graduate with flying colors, she said, “Studying diligently and focusing on one goal is the key. We should seek to excel in everything we do with humility, knowing that knowledge only comes from God,” Pasco said.
CMU, renowned for its Center of Excellence in Agriculture Education, proudly counts Pasco as an alumna. Her success inspires current and future students, highlighting the value of hard work and dedication. Pasco’s story demonstrates how education can shape her as a young professional and secure a bright future in agriculture.
Other EAsY Agri scholars who graduated include Jose Mei W. Barrio (Cum Laude), Junnard S. Coronel (Cum Laude), Alchem G. Daluniag (Cum Laude), Kelly Jane P. Sudario (Cum Laude), Jenerose D. Callejas (Cum Laude), Careen C. Elloren (Cum Laude), Ana Rose O. Lapa (Cum Laude), Irish T. Gabac (Cum Laude), Rechilyn C. Llamera, and Rhea T. Dukinlay. (ATI-10/PIA-10)
