A two-day Youth for Mechanization (Y4M) Boot Camp has encouraged senior high school students to view agriculture as a modern, technology-driven industry and to become advocates of agricultural mechanization.

A total of 82 students from the Central Luzon State University – Agricultural Science and Technology School took part in the activity held at the headquarters of the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. underscored the importance of youth involvement in shaping the future of farming, saying their participation goes beyond skills development.

“By being here, you’re not just learning skills; you are joining a movement that is shaping the future of food and farming in our country,” Laurel said.

PHilMech Director Dionisio Alvindia encouraged students to pursue agriculture-related courses and consider becoming agripreneurs who can help modernize the sector. He also urged parents to help shift perceptions of agriculture into a viable and rewarding career.

The boot camp featured hands-on training on rice production machinery, drone technology demonstrations, short lectures, and various competitions including photo, essay, and concept pitching contests.

Students said the experience strengthened their appreciation of agriculture as an innovative field and expressed commitment to support future Y4M initiatives aimed at promoting youth participation in agricultural mechanization and food security efforts.