Children of farmers enrolled at Agusan del Sur State College of Agriculture and Technology (ASSCAT), whose parents are beneficiaries of the Upland Sustainable Agri-forestry Development (USAD) Program, participated in a one-day Moral Recovery and Values Formation Seminar on May 8, 2025. This seminar was designed not just for learning, but for grounding.

Organized by the Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur through its Moral Recovery and Values Formation Program (MRVFP) and Education Development Services, the seminar focused on values that extend beyond the classroom — respect, discipline, and responsibility — helping students reflect on how these values guide their actions in both their communities and daily lives.

In his message, Dr. Carmelo S. Llanto, ASSCAT Vice President for Academic Affairs and Quality Assurance, reminded students that education is not just about earning degrees — it’s about finding direction in life. He also expressed his gratitude to the Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur (PGAS) for its ongoing support in ASSCAT’s mission to nurture students holistically.

Mr. Justine Roboca followed with a practical discussion on available educational support for students — from assistantships to financial aid — underscoring the Provincial Government’s commitment to ensuring that students, especially those from farming families, have the resources they need to stay in school.

The USAD Program, launched in 2013, remains the flagship poverty reduction initiative of the province. Built on sustainability, not dependency, USAD empowers upland communities by offering integrated support in farming, natural resource management, and education. It aligns with global goals like SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Many of the students who attended the seminar are living proof of this progress — growing from the fields their families tend to becoming leaders who are shaping the future of their communities.

From farm to classroom, from values to vision — this is what real investment in youth looks like.