Interactive History Day Engages Over 200 Students

Jan 22 2025

The Malta Business Registry (MBR), in collaboration with the History Teachers’ Association (HTA), successfully organised an engaging History Day for secondary school students. Over 200 students, accompanied by their history teachers, participated in this educational initiative aimed at exploring history in an interactive and dynamic manner.

Held outside the traditional classroom setting, the event featured a variety of hands-on activities. Students immersed themselves in the past through historical re-enactments, falconry displays, archery sessions, and Virtual Reality experiences. These activities highlighted key eras such as the Medieval period, Roman times, and World War II, illustrating their influence on modern society.

The students also had the chance to interact with HTA members, who emphasised the importance of studying history and its relevance to career opportunities. This exchange was designed to inspire a deeper appreciation for the subject.

Aligned with MBR’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) goals, the initiative aimed to promote educational development and community engagement.

#MaltaDaily

Maltese ‘Ġbejna Tan-Nagħaġ’ Declared Protected By European Union

Jan 22 2025

European President Roberta Metsola took to social media to announced that the Maltese sheep cheeseelet (ġbejna tan-nagħaġ) has been declared protected by the European Union.

‘Another significant achievement for Maltese and Gozitan farmers, producers, and consumers’, stated Metsola.

‘For the first time, after years of lengthy discussions and intense negotiations, a Maltese food product has been placed on the same prestigious list as international delicacies like Italy’s Parmigiano Reggiano and Greece’s Feta cheese.’

‘This recognition means that not only will the Maltese and Gozitans promote and safeguard the ġbejna tan-nagħaġ with foreigners and tourists, but Europe itself will also market this Maltese product as an artisanal and regional specialty—unique in the world.’

Metsola thanked everyone involved, whether they be activists or farmers, to make this possible.

#MaltaDaily

President Myriam Spiteri Debono’s Visit to Italy

Jan 22 2025

President Myriam Spiteri Debono of Malta made her first official visit to Italy, meeting with Italian President Sergio Mattarella. The Maltese President expressed her pleasure at visiting a nation with longstanding ties of friendship that predate Malta’s independence, highlighting the extensive cultural, historical, and political connections shared between the two countries.

President Mattarella acknowledged the significance of this meeting, noting the pivotal role Malta plays in international discussions, especially during these challenging times globally.

The leaders engaged in fruitful discussions on various topics of mutual interest, including trade between Malta and Italy, as well as broader issues concerning the Mediterranean, the European Union, Africa, and the Middle East.

Accompanying President Spiteri Debono was a delegation that included Permanent Secretary Chris Cutajar, Maltese Ambassador to Italy Daniel Azzopardi, Secretary to the Presidency Moira Attard, along with other officials from the Office of the President and the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Tourism.

#MaltaDaily

Strengthened Rent Benefit Scheme Announced

Jan 22 2025

Minister for Social and Affordable Accommodation, Roderick Galdes, has unveiled the implementation of a key measure from the 2025 Budget related to the Rent Benefit scheme.

Speaking at a press conference, Minister Galdes announced that the maximum annual income threshold for all categories within the scheme will increase by €1,000 this year.

“This initiative demonstrates our commitment to supporting families,” Galdes explained. “As a government, we promised to assist with rent payments, and we are delivering by enhancing the Rent Benefit.

This program has become a cornerstone of our social policy, benefiting approximately 3,100 families and translating to an annual investment of €11 million. These funds directly ease financial burdens, leaving €11 million in the pockets of our people.”

Galdes highlighted that 85% of Maltese citizens own their homes. However, he acknowledged the challenges faced by individuals and families who, due to social or economic circumstances, require assistance with renting.

“This benefit exemplifies the government’s pledge to address these realities. On average, we provide €3,500 annually per beneficiary, standing by those in need,” he stated.

The Minister detailed the assistance levels based on income and family structure:

Individuals earning up to €21,635 can receive up to €4,200 annually.

Single parents with two or more children earning up to €26,216 are entitled to a maximum of €6,000 annually.

Couples with two or more children and a combined income of up to €34,635 can also claim up to €6,000 annually.

“These measures are essential for improving residents’ quality of life, reflecting our deep commitment to affordable housing,” Galdes concluded.

Matthew Zerafa, CEO of the Housing Authority, emphasised a customer-focused approach, ensuring that families’ realities and aspirations remain central to the Authority’s operations.

#MaltaDaily