Philippine Agricultural Economic Restoration

Over the past few months, a total of 31 Grade 12 students in Cabintan have taken part in hands-on, professional training on vegetable production, using protective plastic low tunnels and drip irrigation.

Noel, our agronomist at IsraAID Philippines, taught the students about drip irrigation and how it works. He demonstrated the different parts of the system, explaining why each part is important and how each part functions. The students were then trained in how to install and operate the drip irrigation system themselves.

In order to graduate from the training program, each student has to complete at least 80 hours of field work, within 5 months, in vegetable production.

These activities are part of the Senior High School Immersion Curriculum, in which students gain hands-on experience and take part in work simulations, where they can use their new-found knowledge and skills. 

Noel, IsraAID Philippines Agronomist and Livelihood Program Manager, said:

"I have been involved in IsraAID's agricultural livelihood program for three years. We have all learnt a huge amount, and crop production and sales are really improving. The farmers' income is now 400% higher than it used to be! Every time the farmers see the results of their efforts, they understand the importance of investing in the entire farming process. They also take the knowledge and skills they learn and apply them in their home gardens. Lately we are seeing a rise in educational visits to the farm, like the training for high schoolers, which for me is another sign of our success.

Honestly, I was most surprised to learn that when implementing a livelihood program like this, only about 10% gets dedicated to production and 90% to education. This is my role and I love it!"

Thank you for your support!