The Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU), through its Center for Community Extension Services (CCES), in partnership with the Grade School Unit’s Sibika at Kultura Department, continues to cultivate its advocacy for food security and sustainability through the successful implementation of the “Grow a Garden” Activity under #SiembradaConFe (FAITH): Food Always in the Table at Home.
The initiative began with an orientation led by CCES Director, Welma Omboy and Program Officer, Arjun Carolasdolasan, held on September 22, 2025, which gathered 200 Grade 4 students to introduce them to the principles of sustainable gardening and organic farming. During the session, students learned about soil preparation, composting, and the importance of growing their own food using eco-friendly practices.
Following the orientation, the garden planting activities were conducted from September 30 to October 2, 2025, within the school grounds. The enthusiastic young gardeners planted Chinese kangkong, mustasa, and pechay seedlings, marking the start of their journey toward responsible food production and environmental stewardship.
The project also forms part of the Interdisciplinary Performance Task (IDPT) for Grade 4 learners. It aims to help students become advocates of sustainable development, empowering them to take action toward environmental care, food security, and organic farming.
The “Grow a Garden” initiative bridges CCES’s ongoing Sustainable Agriculture and Livelihood Program under the Siembrada con Fe (FAITH) banner. This program encourages schools and communities to establish gardens using organic and sustainable methods, fostering both food sufficiency and a sense of shared responsibility for the environment.
Through this hands-on learning experience, students not only develop agricultural and scientific skills but also gain a deeper appreciation for the role of sustainable practices in ensuring food security a key aspect of ADZU’s mission of holistic formation through service and ecological responsibility.
CCES expressed its gratitude to Fr. Guillrey Anthony M. Andal, SJ, University President, for his continued support and encouragement. Fr. Andal emphasized the significance of formative activities like Siembrada con Fe, highlighting how they help shape responsible, sustainability-minded learners who value creation and community engagement.
The “Grow a Garden” Activity stands as a model for integrating environmental education, food security, and values formation within the school curriculum. It also advances several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).
Through the Siembrada con Fe program, ADZU and CCES reaffirm their dedication to nurturing young changemakers who are equipped to promote sustainable living, environmental awareness, and community resilience.
-Arjun P. Carolasdolasan