The Kalinga State University and Indigenous Path Foundation Inc. (IPath) took a significant step in advancing sustainable agriculture with the formal turnover and inauguration of a hydroponic structure to KSU at the Bulanao campus on March 21.
The hydroponic structure was built by IPath at no cost to the university as part of their partnership to advance innovation in food production and promote a healthier and more sustainable community.
KSU President Dr. Joy Grace P. Doctor said that the facility will provide students and faculty alike a hands-on experience and research opportunities on sustainable food production.
IPath Foundation President Harriet L. Tenda celebrated the completion of the structure as a testament to the dedication and shared vision of IPath and KSU to equip the next generation of farmers with the knowledge and skills to ensure food security and accessibility through research, training, and community engagement.
“Together we aim develop sustainable food production system that not only improve nutrition and food security but also preserve the agricultural heritage of Cordillera region,” she said.
Dean Ferdinand L. Ganotice of the KSU College of Agriculture said that the facility puts the students and faculty of KSU in the forefront of innovative and sustainable agriculture research as hydroponic farming requires less water and space but provides better yield compared to traditional farming methods.
In particular, he said that plans for research includes studying the effect of nutrient and lighting conditions in the growth of crops and explore the best nutrient needs to increase crop yield.
“It will serve as practical learning tool where students can design and test their own hydroponic setups,” he said.
Beyond the confines of academic research, the university also plans to use the facility in their extension programs by offering trainings to local farmers and encourage the adoption of hydroponic method by the community and the broader region.
After the program, attendees were treated to a free harvest of lettuce, basil, and other herbs grown in the facility showing the viability of hydroponic system in farming variety of vegetables to fulfill the food needs of the community.
Present during the event were DOST-Kalinga Provincial Director Jasmin Dona-al; Napoleon Ayang-ang, Enrique Baliang, and Oliver Mendoza representing Mayor Darwin C. Estrañero, Tabuk City Public Information Officer Aurora Amilig, personnel from the Office of the Governor, and KSU faculty and students. By Tabuk PIO
