ISABELA CITY — The City Agriculture Office (CAgO)-Isabela City’s Learning Site for Agriculture (LSA), the Integrated Diversified City Agriculture and Fishery Farm School (IDCAF), recently hosted an enriching immersion program for students from Begang National High School (Batch 2). Held from December 16 to 19, 2024, the program provided participants with valuable hands-on experience in modern and sustainable agricultural practices.
Tractor Driving and Operation Training
One of the program highlights was the Tractor Driving and Operation activity, led by Engr. Nur Tasneem A. Salih. The session began with a theoretical foundation, where students were tasked with drawing and labeling the parts of a four-wheel tractor.
Engr. Salih emphasized safety protocols, outlining the critical do’s and don’ts of operating heavy machinery. Assisted by Farm Machinery Operator Mr. Marphy Tubil and Farm Workers Mr. Jerome Macapili and Mr. Melvin Sario, students applied their knowledge by operating and driving the tractor, with their performances carefully assessed.
Immersive Agricultural Activities
Beyond machinery training, students engaged in a range of farm activities designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to modern agriculture:
- Land Preparation: Learning soil cultivation techniques to prepare for planting.
- Planting and Harvesting: Developing skills in nurturing seedlings and experiencing the reward of reaping crops.
- Nursery Management: Caring for young coffee plants to ensure their growth and health.
- Carbonizing Rice Hull: Discovering sustainable waste management practices.
- Vermicomposting: Exploring the process of creating nutrient-rich compost with worms.
These activities were guided by Farm Manager Jonathan M. Pedillon and Agricultural Technologist Michael E. Estrada, whose expertise and enthusiasm inspired the students to appreciate the value of agriculture.
Empowering Future Agricultural Leaders
The immersive program provided students with practical skills, fostering their potential as future leaders in agriculture. Through hands-on training and mentorship, the IDCAF Farm School continues to play a pivotal role in nurturing young talents and promoting sustainable farming practices in Isabela City.
This experience not only equipped students with technical knowledge but also instilled a deeper appreciation for the agricultural industry, preparing them for future endeavors in the field.