Isabela, Philippines – September 2024 โ The Youth Empowerment through Technopreneurship (YET) Program, formerly known as the DOST-Academe Technology-Based Enterprise Development (DAT-BED), has successfully concluded its project cycles at Isabela State University – Angadanan Campus. Launched in July 2021, this transformative initiative has empowered students through hands-on entrepreneurship training, practical experience in product development, and effective marketing strategies. Supported by the Department of Science and Technology – Technology Application and Promotion Institute (DOST-TAPI), the program has fostered innovation, self-reliance, and market readiness among the youth.
The YET Program completed several product cycles, including wine production, baked goods production, and processed meat production, each with multiple iterations. Nine students participated in the program, with a gender composition of seven females and two males. These students received comprehensive training that equipped them with essential entrepreneurial skills, from production techniques to marketing strategies.
The financial outcomes of the YET Program are impressive. The program generated a total income of PHP 412,285.60. Key financial highlights include a remaining cash balance of PHP 162,641.35, substantial collectibles amounting to PHP 146,864.00, and interest gained from DOST-TAPI funds totaling PHP 195,267.51. The program’s effective financial management reflects prudent fund handling and contributes to its overall financial health. One of the program’s significant achievements is the establishment of a marketing center, which serves as a distribution and promotion hub for the products developed by the students. The marketing center has become a vital part of the campus community, with products being used as tokens, exhibit displays, and more.
The program faced challenges, including the replacement of some project staff who were graduating students. This transition required additional coordination and training to ensure the continuity and quality of the projects. However, the new team members quickly adapted, contributing to the program’s overall success.
The YET Program’s products are on their way to commercialization, undergoing various testing and analysis to ensure quality and safety before being introduced to the broader market. Efforts are being made to secure patents for these innovative products, protecting intellectual property and enhancing market competitiveness. Meanwhile, the Marketing Center is poised to play a pivotal role in the successful commercialization of the YET Program’s products. Moving forward, the center will focus on developing comprehensive marketing strategies that highlight the unique benefits and innovations of these products and other food products. Additionally, by displaying developed products from students’ research at the Marketing Center, the program aims to highlight the innovative work of ISU AC students, providing them with a platform to showcase their contributions and attract potential investors and industry partners. It will also serve as an inspiration for current and prospective students, illustrating the practical impact of their academic efforts. This initiative underscores the center’s commitment to not only commercializing the YET Program’s products but also celebrating and promoting student research and innovation.
Importantly, the YET Program aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12, which is focused on ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns. By training students in sustainable production techniques and encouraging the development of products that adhere to high standards of quality and safety, the program promotes responsible consumption and production. The marketing center established by the program also serves as a model for sustainable business practices, emphasizing the importance of local production, reducing waste, and maximizing resource efficiency. This alignment with SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) underscores the program’s commitment to not only empowering youth but also fostering sustainable economic growth and environmental stewardship.
The Youth Empowerment through Technopreneurship (YET) Program at Isabela State University – Angadanan Campus has demonstrated the immense potential of technopreneurship in empowering youth. The completion of multiple product cycles, effective financial management, and the establishment of a marketing center are significant achievements. Although no student recipients transitioned to full-time entrepreneurship, the program has laid a strong foundation for future entrepreneurial endeavors among the youth.
This reflects the commitment of Isabela State University – Angadanan Campus to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, supported by the strategic partnership with DOST-TAPI. The program’s success underscores the importance of continued support and investment in youth empowerment initiatives, paving the way for a brighter and more entrepreneurial future for the next generation.
