TACLOBAN CITY – To boost the agricultural sector and promote youth involvement in farming, the Department of Education (DepEd) City Division, Eastern Samar State University (ESSU), TESDA, and the City Government Unit of Borongan will be establishing a new agricultural school in the city.
During a recent local school board meeting, City Division Superintendent Edgar Tenesas unveiled the framework for the school. The agricultural school will offer a specialized program for senior high school students, focusing solely on agricultural tracks. The said initiative aligns with Mayor Jose Dayan Agda’s DUKWAG AGRIKULTURA program, providing interest-free and collateral-free loans to Borongan residents engaged in agriculture.
Mayor Agda believes the school can serve as a model for uplifting agricultural needs in the town and provinces of the Philippines through collaboration between the government and the private sector for the program’s success.
Graduates of the agricultural school will have automatic admission to ESSU’s agricultural courses. ESSU will contribute to the curriculum design to ensure alignment with their programs and seamless transition from high school to college.
TESDA Provincial Director Antonio Waniwan will align programs at the proposed school to prepare graduates for TESDA certifications, explore student allowance opportunities, and provide multiple options post-completion.
A local ordinance, meanwhile, will fund one scholar per barangay, nominated by respective officials, ensuring enrollment and community involvement. City Information Officer Rupert Ambil also suggested granting college credits from ESSU to students for a smooth high school to college transition in pursuing agricultural ventures. Meanwhile, CRS, a non-government organization, committed to supporting the school through corporate partnerships for internships and exposure opportunities. By Marie Tonette Marticio (EV Mail August 5-11, 2024 issue)
