To further expand its learning hubs, the Quezon City University opened its Center for Urban Agriculture and Innovation to develop different models of urban farms to meet the needs of diverse stakeholders.

In partnership with the Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI) and through the QC Government’s Sustainable Development Affairs Unit (SDAU), the Center will provide training and development activities to enable QCU to mainstream urban agriculture into its curriculum programs.

DA-ATI provided the funds amounting to 14.5 million to develop the center within the QCU campus.

“This is part of our effort to create a smart and sustainable city. Through this Center for Urban Agriculture, we can learn how to further expand our urban farming initiatives, and include our students and other stakeholders in the process,” Mayor Joy Belmonte said.

Among the Center’s innovations is a bee farm with an initial five bee colonies funded by the QCU cooperative. The staff of the QCU were also trained in beekeeping by the Apiculture Producers Cooperative. QCU also refurbished an old metal craft building on its campus to become a Honey House which will be used as a training venue for participants.

“This program is to reinforce our commitment to the sustainability of QC’s urban farming initiatives. With our vast campus grounds, we aim to maximize it by incorporating programs and projects that are aligned with the development goals of the city government,” QCU President Dr. Theresita Atienza said.

Mayor Belmonte also added that the Center is developing these initiatives for possible livelihood projects that can also be featured in other QC Government programs such as the Made in QC artisanal caravan.

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