SCIENCE CITY OF MUÑOZ — A two-day Youth for Mechanization (Y4M) Boot Camp has inspired more young Filipinos to appreciate agriculture as a modern and innovative field, encouraging them to become advocates of agricultural mechanization.
A total of 82 senior high school students from the Central Luzon State University – Agricultural Science and Technology School participated in the activity recently held at the headquarters of the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PHilMech).
During the event, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. expressed his support for the Y4M program and underscored the important role of the youth in shaping the future of Philippine agriculture.
“By being here, you’re not just learning skills; you are joining a movement that is shaping the future of food and farming in our country,” Laurel said.
Meanwhile, PHilMech Director Dionisio Alvindia encouraged students to pursue agriculture-related courses in college and eventually become agripreneurs who will help modernize the sector.
He also called on parents to help reshape the perception of agriculture among young people by promoting it as a viable and rewarding career path.
The program provided hands-on learning experiences designed to deepen students’ understanding of mechanized farming technologies and their role in ensuring food security.
The boot camp featured short lectures, hands-on use of rice production machinery, drone technology demonstrations, photo and essay competitions, group games, and campfire activities.
Participants also took part in a concept pitching contest aimed at encouraging innovative ideas on how to further promote the Y4M initiative.
Student delegates expressed appreciation for the program, saying the activity strengthened their appreciation of agriculture as a modern and innovative field and inspired them to become advocates of the Y4M initiative.
Many also pledged to support and volunteer in future Y4M activities to encourage more youth to participate.
The Y4M program seeks to rebrand agriculture among the youth and mobilize them into a skilled workforce in mechanization, ultimately helping strengthen the country’s food security and agricultural sustainability.