SM Foundation has taken another step in its mission to enhance the agriculture and entrepreneurial skills of farmers. The organization recently launched the Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan on Sustainable Agriculture Program (KSK-SAP) in various locations in Calabarzon.
Beginning with its launch in Padre Garcia, Batangas on April 13, 2023, the program has since been extended to Silang, Cavite; Batangas City, San Pablo, Laguna, and Calamba City, Laguna. SMFI is also set to provide free agri-skills training to local farmers in other parts of the region to help other beneficiaries uplift their families and communities.
The local farmer beneficiaries will undergo a two-phased program, spearheaded by its partner school- Moca Family Farm RL Learning Center Inc. The program kicked-off with an immersive 14-week training program, designed to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge in agriculture. The modular training curriculum covers topics on the latest agri-technology updates, capacity building, financial literacy, product development, and market opportunities. Through these comprehensive modules, KSK-SAP aims to empower and enhance farmers' agricultural practices and explore avenue for sustainable growth.
As a highlight of the program's first phase, KSK-SAP farmers will join the SM Sunday Market. This platform offers trainees a valuable opportunity to showcase their agricultural produce and gain firsthand experience in institutional selling. Through this market, participants can generate income and at the same time cultivate expertise in the sales and marketing aspects of their business.
For the second phase of the program, SMFI will assist farmers in formalizing their respective groups. To boost their earning capacity and contribution to economic growth, the foundation will support them in creating a sustainable and profitable farming community through the assistance of its partner agencies.
KSK-SAP originated from the vision of SMFI founder Henry Sy Sr., to establish a sustainable initiative that would uplift the farming skills, food security, and livelihood know-how to low-incomes Filipinos. Over the years, the program has evolved into a comprehensive training program that generates opportunities for skills development, employment, and livelihood.
Since its inception in 2007, KSK-Sap has helped more than 28,000 farmers from rural and urban areas across the country, fueling their entrepreneurial and farming capabilities. As a result, some of the program's graduates have turned into seasonal suppliers for the SM Group and other local markets.
SM Foundation's KSK-SAP is in partnership with SM Supermalls, TESDA, DA< DSWD, DOST, DTI, DOT, and partner farm schools.
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