The DOST-PCAARRD Youth Science Program in the Regions (Mindanao) successfully concluded the first week of its Community of Elders (COELs) Mentorship Sessions on June 26, 2026, at the CAEc EBP Hall, through a series of collaborative and interactive activities that challenged participants to transform innovative ideas into meaningful research concepts and entrepreneurial opportunities.

To establish a baseline and assess the participants’ initial understanding of their respective sectors, the day began with a post-test, allowing participants to evaluate their existing knowledge before diving into the mentorship sessions. Following this, the morning session focused on Topic Selection and Brainstorming. This led into the first consultation, where participants worked closely with their mentors to refine their initial research concepts and identify relevant issues within the Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources (AANR) sector. This consultation was facilitated by Dr. Della Grace G. Bacaltos, Dr. Irvin C. Generalao, and Dr. Purisima G. Bayacag, who provided valuable guidance, constructive feedback, and expert insights to help students strengthen the direction and feasibility of their proposed research ideas.

The afternoon session featured Dr. Karl P. Campos, Resource Person for Youth Entrepreneurship in AANR, who conducted an engaging Elevator Pitch Lecture. The activity equipped participants with practical communication and presentation skills, emphasizing the importance of delivering research ideas with clarity, confidence, and purpose. Through the lecture, students learned how to effectively communicate innovative concepts, capture their audience’s interest, and articulate the potential impact of their proposed solutions.

As the first week of the COELs Mentorship Sessions comes to a close, the DOST-PCAARRD Youth Science Program in the Regions (Mindanao) continues to empower young innovators by cultivating research excellence, entrepreneurial thinking, and collaborative leadership. Through expert mentorship and experiential learning, the program remains committed to developing future scientists, researchers, and changemakers who will contribute to sustainable development and innovation in the AANR sector and beyond.