Eight youth scholars, farm partners, partner agencies and staff from ATI pose for a group photo during the OA Youth Scholarship Grant Culmination Activity in Siquijor, Siquijor
Eight promising youth scholars have successfully completed a rigorous 9-month internship with esteemed farm partners associated with the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), specialising in Organic Agriculture (OA). Throughout this immersive experience, the scholars engaged in hands-on learning at designated agricultural sites, gaining invaluable insights into the intricacies of OA practices. This internship serves as the inaugural phase of a comprehensive scholarship program.
The culmination of their internship took place on December 5, 2023, at Bellview Kuzzina Bar & E.I. Suites in Siquijor, Siquijor. This milestone marks the beginning of the next chapter for these scholars, as they are set to receive a total grant of 150,000 Philippine pesos each. This financial support serves as the initial capital for launching their chosen enterprises, aligning with the principles of Organic Agriculture.
These scholars will embark on a dedicated journey of hands-on practice and implementation of their proposed organic enterprises. Each scholar has been strategically paired with a farm partner in Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor, based on the specific type of organic agriculture farming activity they will be undertaking. The partnerships are as follows:
| Province | Farm Partner | Trainees/Grantees |
| Bohol | Tree Topz Integrated Farm | Joshua T. Hinojales and Sheryl Lane Mar |
| Cebu | KR Integrated Friendly Farming Corporation | Bodjelin F. Tagupa and Kyle Bem Torion |
| Negros Oriental | Anahaw Integrated Farm | Joel Mahinay and Stella Labajo |
| Siquijor | Elnard Integrated Farm | Kharl Y. Templanza and Joventino L. Cuarteros Jr. |
This scholarship initiative is a collaborative endeavour between the Department of Agriculture - National Organic Agriculture Program (DA-NOAP) and the DA-ATI. The primary objective of the program is to offer comprehensive support to the scholars until their enterprises are not only established but also financially sustainable. The emphasis lies on fostering a conducive environment that boosts the morale of these aspiring entrepreneurs.
The program's design reflects a highly specialised internship, tailored to instill and develop in the trainees a profound appreciation for organic agriculture. By nurturing these scholars through practical experiences and financial support, the initiative aims to contribute to the growth and success of organic agriculture practices in the region.
