October 16, 2026

Turning limited spaces into opportunities for sustainable food production, the Rotaract Club of Lucena South and Rotaract Club of Lucena Central conducted a Seminar and Hands-on Training on Hydroponics Technology on October 16, 2026, at Lucena City National High School–Ilayang Dupay Extension, in partnership with the City Agriculture Office of Lucena and the Department of Education through LCNHS–Ilayang Dupay Extension.

The initiative under Project S.P.R.O.U.T. (Smart Practices for Resilient Opportunities for Urban Transformation) equipped 60 student members of the 4-H Club with practical knowledge of growing vegetables without conventional soil. Resource speakers Sir Michel Allan D. Rizaldo and Ma’am Virgie G. Ronquillo guided participants through demonstrations of hydroponic materials, nutrient solutions, growing media, and basic system management.

To ensure learning continued beyond the seminar, the clubs donated a hydroponics starter kit containing growing boxes, nutrient solutions, cups, cocopeat, seeds, and other essential supplies. Information, Education, and Communication materials were also distributed to strengthen agricultural awareness among students.

Beyond the 60 students reached, the project provided the school with resources to support continued hands-on learning and encourage future gardening activities.

By bringing together youth leadership, agricultural expertise, and community partnership, Project S.P.R.O.U.T. turned education into action-cultivating practical skills, environmental responsibility, and lasting opportunities for a greener, more food-secure future.