Progress Of 90 Students Celebrated During Hand In Hand Graduation Ceremony

The achievements and progress of 90 students were recognised during the Hand in Hand Graduation Ceremony, which celebrated the perseverance, personal development and determination of children and young people attending the organisation's educational programmes.

The ceremony was attended by Minister for Education and Sport Byron Camilleri, with students aged between 3 and 18 from the institution's centres in Rabat and Pembroke receiving certificates in recognition of the progress they have made throughout the year.

Addressing those present, Minister Camilleri said every student has unique abilities and that educational success should be measured by the progress each individual achieves rather than by a single standard.

He said the ceremony celebrated not only academic achievements but also the personal journey of every student. He added that genuinely inclusive education means providing every child with the opportunity to develop their potential while removing barriers that may prevent them from reaching their goals.

The Minister said education must continue evolving to meet the diverse needs of students by creating environments that promote independence, confidence and personal growth, while preparing children and young people to participate actively in society.

Hand in Hand Chief Executive Chris Vassallo described the occasion as a celebration of more than 90 students and over 100 families who show resilience, commitment and hope every day. He thanked the Government for its continued investment in children and young people with autism and for supporting initiatives that expand opportunities for families.

He said the ceremony demonstrated what can be achieved when families, educators, therapists, professionals and the Government work together to ensure every child is valued and given the opportunity to build a more independent future.

Hand in Hand provides specialised educational programmes for neurodiverse students, including children and young people with autism and other developmental, behavioural and learning needs.

Its post-secondary LifeMap programme combines functional education, therapy and vocational training, including simulated workplace environments that help students develop practical life and employment skills.

The organisation is also preparing to expand its services during the next school year with the opening of the institute's first floor.

The investment will enable another 45 students to access specialised educational support, further strengthening inclusive education and creating more opportunities for children and young people to learn and develop in an environment tailored to their individual needs.

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