With the increasing advocacy to educate the youth about agriculture, the Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rice Research Institute (DA-PhilRice) and Kiwanis International-Philippine Luzon District unveiled a compact educational campsite called RICEsParK, established to help cultivate the next generation of agricultural leaders.The initiative, launched today, seeks to inspire young “RICEponsible” leaders who are aware of the challenges faced by Filipino farmers and the importance of rice and rice science to the nation.“At RICEsParK, we aim to develop leaders who are mindful of farmers’ struggles, understand the significance of rice, and are equipped with leadership skills and values needed to impact the country’s rice sector,” said Gov. Glenda V. Hufano of the Kiwanis International-Philippine Luzon District.The 1,000-sqm facility, situated within the 5-ha FutureRice Farm in the Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija, offers an alternative to typical recreational activities for children such as usual mall visits and frequent use of gadgets.“RICEsParK is designed to creatively engage youth aged 10-15 as potential leaders in rice science and catalysts for prosperity in farming communities. They will be exposed to the work of DA-PhilRice and its partners, such as the Kiwanis International, in these areas,” Dr. Karen Eloisa T. Barroga, DA-PhilRice deputy executive director for development.She said that the Department of Education will be tapped in engaging the youth to join the campsite programs, which combine leadership development with hands-on learning in rice science and farming. At the RICEsParK, participants will gain valuable lessons through farm adventure games like kayaking and obstacle races, while exploring rice technologies, including advanced farm machinery and digital applications.Set amidst rice fields, the campsite also aims to nurture future leaders as progressive and entrepreneurial food producers.Dr. John C. de Leon, PhilRice executive director, said that the initiative, one of the Institute’s new approaches, aligns with Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.’s vision of making agriculture “sustainable, profitable, and attractive to the younger generation.” It can be recalled that during his appointment, the secretary highlighted the need to make agricultural investments and careers profitable to draw in young farmers and fisherfolks. Meanwhile, as part of the pre-launch activities, attendees also witnessed the planting of rice paddy art, featuring a Filipino who recently brought pride to the country.The RICEsParK campsite and rice paddy art will be showcased during the upcoming Lakbay Palay event on Sept. 18-19, which is expected to attract a thousand participants, including farmers, students, and other stakeholders.DA-PhilRice is the country’s lead agency for rice research and development, aiming to improve rice farming communities despite challenges such as land conversion, population surge, high food consumption, and climate change.