OFFICIALS of the Mariano Marcos State University and PhilRice Batac recently launched a rice paddy art project to encourage the youth to take up more agriculture-related courses and to remind the public of the importance of agriculture.

MMSU President Shirley C. Agrupis and PhilRice -Batac Manager Reynaldo Castro led the event held at the university’s extension demonstration area.

“The rice paddy art aims to inspire the youth to pursue agriculture-related courses and encourage the public to appreciate agriculture as a way of life. A showcase of art and agriculture through technology, the project also seeks to boost agri-tourism in the province,” MMSU said on Facebook.

This year’s paddy art features the image of Dr. Santiago R. Obien, former MMSU president and executive director of PhilRice.

The rice paddy art project is now in its third year.

Meanwhile, the university also announced that it is looking for instructors who can teach architecture and engineering.