The SM Foundation recently marked the graduation of farmers who completed a 14-week training program in modern agricultural methods.
The program, Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan on Sustainable Agriculture Program (KSK-SAP), aims to help marginalized farmers in the Philippines improve their farming practices and economic opportunities.
Moving forward with modern agriculture
The SM group held graduation ceremonies in Tanza, Cavite, and Masinag, Antipolo, for Batches 260 and 254, respectively. The celebration commenced with harvest festivals in their demo farms and market tours with SM Markets to explore selling opportunities and award ceremonies, where they received completion and TESDA NCII certificates.
During the 14-week program, farmer trainees received comprehensive training in various aspects of agriculture, including crop cultivation and management, modern planting techniques, and best practices in harvesting.
The KSK-SAP program also provided lectures on financial literacy, business development, and life principles of Henry Sy Sr. These additional components empower the farmer-beneficiaries to grow crops and become agripreneurs, contributing to the nation’s food security.
It has been implemented nationwide, with launches and graduation ceremonies in various locations. Since 2007, the program has benefited over 28,000 marginalized farmers, and some graduates have become seasonal suppliers for the SM group and local markets.
SM Foundation’s KSK-SAP is conducted in partnership with SM Supermalls, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the Department of Agriculture (DA), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and partner farm schools.
