DTI, DepEd to promote youth entrepreneurship in Western Visayas

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has signed a partnership agreement with the Department of Education (DepEd) to promote youth entrepreneurship at farm schools in Western Visayas.

A memorandum of agreement (MOA) for the Youth Entrepreneurship Program (YEP) – You Can Be Your Own Boss (BYOB) program was signed at the DTI Region 6 office on March 26, with both agencies committing to equip the next generation with essential business skills.

“By equipping farm school learners with entrepreneurial knowledge and practical business skills, the partnership ensures that students will graduate not only as skilled farmers but also as entrepreneurs capable of managing their own agribusinesses,” the DTI said in a statement on Thursday.

Under the agreement, 31 farm schools are set to receive training modules, mentorship programs, resources and capacity-building initiatives for both students and teachers from the DTI.

DTI will oversee program design and implementation, ensuring alignment with national and regional business development strategies.

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Opening the doors

Additionally, the government agency will support farm school graduates by facilitating market linkages, providing opportunities to participate in trade fairs and connecting them with potential customers.

Meanwhile, DepEd will oversee the coordination of the 31 farm schools to ensure the effective integration of entrepreneurship education.

The agency agreed to provide training facilities, organize events and encourage student engagement in business-related activities.

Additionally, DepEd will collaborate with DTI to ensure continuous teacher training, thus enhancing their ability to mentor students effectively.

“With entrepreneurship now embedded in the farm school framework, students will have the opportunity to earn and manage their own finances, developing financial literacy at an early stage,” said the DTI.