Fifty-three (53) on-the-job trainees from the Catanduanes State University College of Agriculture and Fisheries are currently engaged in a transformative 600-hour training program at the Virac Local Government Unit – Municipal Agriculture Office.
Blending theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, these interns are actively participating in various sectoral programs led by a team of professional agriculturists overseeing livestock, crops, fisheries, and rural development sectors within the Virac agriculture office headed by Municipal Agriculture Officer Jimma V. Tadoy.
Mayor Sammy V. Laynes said the collaborative effort between the Virac LGU and CatSU exemplifies a commitment to enriching the practical skills and knowledge of aspiring agriculture professionals, ensuring a seamless transition from classrooms to the agriculture and fisheries industry.
Among the interns, eighteen Agri-business majors have been strategically assigned to the Rural Improvement Club (RIC)/people’s organization programs. Their responsibilities include providing essential technical assistance in areas such as bookkeeping, community organizing, and the facilitation of meetings.
In the livestock sector, a team of five interns is collaborating with agricultural extension workers to deliver technical support to farmers. This includes administering medication, deworming, and vitamin supplementation to livestock and poultry, as well as conducting dog vaccinations and participating in hog dispersal initiatives at the local government farm.
Simultaneously, another group of five interns is making a significant impact in the fisheries sector. They are actively involved in monitoring fish catches, overseeing turtle nesting sites in Barangay Talisoy, and contributing to the management of the Virac Fish Sanctuary and Marine Reserve.
Moreover, an additional five interns are dedicated to the High-Value Crops Development Program, providing invaluable assistance to a farmer cooperator engaged in the production and marketing of high-value crops.
“From planting to marketing po an training ninda kaya pag harvest sinda an ma benta, 40% kan income mapupunta sa sainda,” Agricultural Technician and OJT Focal Person Alex A. Asuncion.
Furthermore, 20 interns are fully immersed in the Rice Program Student Field School, actively assisting farmer-cooperators. “Obheto mi po sa mga nasa rice iyo na makanood sinda na mag facilitate nin demo farm buda ma develop an love for rice farming,” AT Asuncion added.