Over 180 Young Maltese Volunteer Abroad Through Youth Scheme

More than 180 young people have taken part in volunteering opportunities abroad through the Youth Volunteer Overseas scheme, according to figures released during the international year dedicated to volunteering.

Over the past nine years, 182 young men and women from 43 Maltese and Gozitan voluntary organisations participated in overseas volunteering projects. These initiatives were supported by an investment of €227,000 through the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector. Volunteers were involved in projects across countries including Kenya, Ghana, the Philippines, Cambodia, Paraguay and Peru, contributing to activities such as school construction, teaching, sanitation improvements, food distribution, and awareness campaigns on health and hygiene.

The scheme is open to young people aged between 18 and 35, offering placements lasting from two weeks to three months. It provides financial support of up to €2,500 to cover travel, flights, and insurance costs.

Applications are accepted throughout the year via the MCVS portal volunteers.mt and must be submitted through a registered organisation compliant with the Office of the Commissioner for Voluntary Organisations. From this year, organisations may also appoint a project leader over the age of 35 to oversee coordination.

The initiative was highlighted during a visit to Karibu Malta, an organisation established in 2013 that supports missionary and educational projects abroad. To date, it has built two schools in Kenya and continues to engage its members in overseas projects supported by schemes such as Youth Volunteer Overseas.

Minister for Inclusion and Voluntary Organisations Julia Farrugia said the Government remains committed to supporting volunteering as a means of social development. Mauro Pace Parascandalo said the scheme provides young people with valuable experience and exposure to different environments, helping them develop as individuals and as citizens.

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