Abstract
Agricultural development remains a vital strategy for alleviating poverty, yet youth engagement in the sector continues to decline. This study assessed the level of awareness and perception of Senior High School (SHS) students toward the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (BSA) program offered at a state university in Barili, Cebu, Philippines, during the 2022–2023 academic year. Using a descriptive quantitative design, the research explored students’ understanding of the program’s nature and scope, on-the-job training (OJT) sites, career opportunities, and their willingness and interest in pursuing agriculture-related studies. It also examined the relationship between perceptions and demographic profiles of students, parents, and administrators. Findings revealed that students were slightly unaware of the BSA program across key dimensions: nature and scope (mean = 4.13), OJT sites (mean = 3.85), and career opportunities (mean = 4.30). The leading cause of unawareness was the lack of information dissemination, while disinterest stemmed from misalignment with personal aspirations. No significant relationship was found between administrators’ profiles and student perceptions. However, parents’ occupation (r = 0.320, p = 0.008) and family size (r = –0.261, p = 0.032) significantly influenced perceptions, as did students’ age (r = –0.118, p = 0.029). The study recommends targeted information campaigns, enhanced visibility of career pathways, and improved communication regarding OJT opportunities. Strengthening recruitment strategies, aligning program content with student interests, and engaging alumni may also improve perception and enrollment. These interventions are essential to reposition agriculture as a viable and attractive career option for Filipino youth.
