On April 8, 2024, the Isabela State University Roxas (ISUR) Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (BSA) program launched an extension project aimed at empowering women through simplified hydroponics in Barangay Luna, Roxas, Isabela. Led by Sir Alvin P. Ramos and Dr. Bladyner O. Da Jose, the project underscored ISUR’s commitment to equipping communities with knowledge and skills for economic advancement, while also addressing SDG1 (No Poverty), SDG2 (Zero Hunger), SDG3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG5 (Gender Equality), SDG12 (Responsible Production and Consumption), and SDG17 (Partnership for the Goals).
The event commenced with a warm welcome address from Barangay Captain Hon. Juanito V. Ramos, expressing his warmest welcome and gratitude to ISUR. Dr. Januard D. Dagdag, ISUR’s Director for Extension & Training Services, delivered an inspirational message highlighting ISUR’s aim of empowering women in agriculture and promoting gender equality. He underscored the vital role of women in food production and sustainability, advocating for equal access to resources and opportunities to drive societal progress. Dr. Bladyner O. Da Jose, the chairperson of BSA program and a component leader of the extension project, provided further inspiration and outlined the overview of the project, emphasizing the importance of sustainable agriculture in community development.
Following these remarks, Sir Alvin P. Ramos, the extension project leader and coordinator of the BSA program, took the lead in conducting a comprehensive training session on hydroponic growing of leafy vegetables. He elucidated the benefits of hydroponics over traditional farming methods and discussed various hydroponic systems, advocating for the adoption of simplified hydroponics among the women participants. Sir Ramos shared practical insights, from setup to harvesting, and offered tips on maximizing profits through efficient hydroponic farming techniques.
Throughout the training session, both Sir Ramos and Dr. Da Jose actively engaged with participants, addressing their inquiries with detailed and practical answers. They encouraged participants to embrace hydroponic practices for sustainable agricultural livelihoods. Participants who expressed interest in adopting hydroponics were assured of receiving necessary materials to kickstart their projects.
Sir Ramos aptly quoted biblical verses, emphasizing the value of empowering communities through education and skill development, stating, “it is better to teach people how to fish than to give them fish.” The funding for this initiative is generously provided by Isabela State University – Roxas, aligning with the university’s mandate to serve as the brain trust of the community for economic development.
