SM Foundation has taken another step in its mission to uplift lives by enhancing the agriculture and entrepreneurial skills of farmers. SMFI recently launched the Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan on Sustainable Agriculture Program (KSK-SAP) in the Calabarzon region. The prorgram also aims to provide farmers with modern farming techniques.
KSK-SAP was launch first in Padre Garcia, Batangas last April 13, 2023 and then extended to Silang, Cavite; Batangas City; San Pablo, Laguna; and Calamba City. 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 farmers will undergo a two-phased program spearheaded by its partner school Moca Family Farm RLearning Center Inc. It is 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 the comprehensive modules, KSK-SAP aims to empower and enhance farmers' agricultural practices and explore avenues for sustainable growth.
Another highlight of the program is that the farmers will join the SM Sunday Market, a collaborative initiative between SMFI and SM Supermalls. This platform offers trainees a valuable opportunity to showcase their agricultural produce and gain firsthand experience in institutional selling. Through this market opportunity, participants can not only generate income but also cultivate their expertise and experience in the sales and marketing aspects of their agri-businesses.
For the second phase of the program, SMFI will assist farmers in formalizing their respective groups. Too help boost the farmers earning capacity and contribution to economic growth, the foundation will also support them in creating a sustainable and profitable farming community through the assistance of partner agencies.
KSK-SAP stemmed 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 of low-income Filipino farmers. Over the years, the program has evolved into a comprehensive training program that generates opportunities for skills development, employment, and livelihood.
It was conceptualized in 2007, and since then KSK-SAP has helped more than 28,000 marginalized farmers from rural and urban areas across the country, fueling their entrepreneurial and farming capabilities. As a result, some of the program graduates have turned into seasonal suppliers for the SM Group and other local markets.
SMFI's KSK-SAP is in partnership with SM Supermalls, TESDA, DA, DSWD, DOST, DTI, DOT, and partner farm schools.
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