Tagbilaran City, Bohol – The Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center 7 (ATI-RTC 7) successfully conducted a transformative training program titled “Cultivating Excellence: Leadership, Values, and the Scholarship Journey” from January 21-23, 2025, at the ATI 7 Complex in Cabawan District, Tagbilaran City, Bohol. This initiative gathered 25 scholars from the Educational Assistance for the Youth in Agriculture (EASY AGRI) program and 5 scholars from the Educational Grants for Extension Workers (EDGE), aimed at fostering leadership, ethical values, and academic excellence within the agricultural sector.

The event, designed to empower the participants with effective leadership skills, emphasized the importance of core ethical principles in both personal and professional pursuits. With a focus on integrity, the training aimed to help the scholars integrate these values into their academic studies and future careers in agriculture, cultivating a culture of excellence and responsibility.

The three-day training was led by a team of distinguished professors from Holy Name University: Prof. Ethel S. Doria, Prof. Arlene B. Loquias, and Prof. Jaremilleta M. Arawiran. These seasoned educators provided expert insights on leadership and values, equipping the participants with the necessary tools to navigate the challenges they may encounter in their academic and professional journeys. The resource persons engaged the participants in a series of interactive lectures, discussions, and exercises designed to encourage self-reflection and growth in leadership capacities.

Organizing the training was Ms. Joemelyn Allianic Sumagang, the Project Officer for the event. Under her leadership, the training was structured to ensure that the scholars not only gained valuable theoretical knowledge but also practical tools to apply in real-world agricultural leadership scenarios. Through group activities and case studies, the participants were able to enhance their understanding of what it means to be ethical, effective leaders within the context of the agriculture industry.

The “Cultivating Excellence” event serves as part of ATI-RTC 7’s broader efforts to empower young individuals in the agricultural sector and promote sustainable leadership within the industry. By providing a platform for students and extension workers to strengthen their leadership and value-driven approach to agriculture, the program aims to produce future leaders who will not only excel academically but also contribute to the sustainable development of the agriculture sector in the Philippines.

This training represents ATI-RTC 7’s continued commitment to enhancing the capabilities of the youth involved in agriculture. By combining leadership development with a strong ethical foundation, the institute is helping to ensure that the next generation of agricultural leaders is equipped to lead with integrity, innovation, and excellence.