Local Psychologist Tackles School Hours, More Kids Debate

Jan 16 2025

Taking to social media, clinical psychologist and therapist Nicholas Briffa addressed the recent debate around increasing school hours and having three kids.

The debate followed a study which stated that Malta’s open school hours were among the lowest in Europe and that we should have more kids instead of getting cats or dogs.

Briffa addressed the issue, saying that parents are nowadays bringing children into the world to be raised by other people in the name of the economy.

‘We bring children into the world for the economy and a few months later we return to work in the name of the economy. And further, we propose that schools have longer hours. Always in the name of the economy.’

‘I’d rather we open up a dialogue, as other societies did, about – the affordability of property, the size of apartments for families, how we will working less and not more, how we shouldn’t have to work part time to keep up with expenses, how we can spend more time with our children, how there can be maternity and paternity leave, and more.’

‘It’s intense neoliberalism and capitalism that the economy is at the centre of society and not the human. The economy is there to serve the human, and not vice versa!’

What do you think?

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King’s Trust International Marks 10 Years of Success in Malta

Jan 16 2025

In the past 10 years of operation in Malta by King’s Trust International Achievements (KTI), 2,054 students in the country have achieved various levels of qualifications, helping them integrate into the job market. This is just one of the accomplishments over the last decade of KTI’s work in Malta, with the HSBC Malta Foundation serving as a principal partner.

King’s Trust International Achievements was established in 2015 by King Charles III, then known as Prince’s Trust International, and operates in 20 countries across the Caribbean, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.

In Malta, 61 schools participate in the KTI program, with around 300 educators trained and involved in the initiative. Additionally, 554 students have successfully obtained an MQF Level 3 qualification through the program.

“This program is a success, thanks to everyone involved who, with commitment, dedication, and effort, are providing students with another educational opportunity. It’s not just about achieving results and qualifications but also about guiding them toward the world of work,” said the Minister for Education, Sport, Youth, Research, and Innovation, Clifton Grima, during this morning’s celebration event.

The celebration, led by HSBC CEO Geoffrey Fichte, was attended by General Directors, Directors, College and School Heads, as well as educators from State, Church, and Independent Schools. Also present were the CEO of MCAST, representatives from Agenzija Żgħażagħ, the RISe Foundation, Soup Kitchen, and the J A Malta Foundation.

During the event, a review of the past 10 years of work was presented, from the 2015 launch of Prince’s Trust International in Malta by King Charles III himself, who is the patron of KTI, to the significant achievements over the years.

A notable achievement occurred in the 2019/20 academic year when student Katriel Zahra from Santa Margerita College, Verdala Secondary School, was selected from hundreds of students worldwide and nominated as the winner of the Europe Region in the Prince’s Trust Global Awards. In the 2022/23 academic year, student Christian Axisa from St. Paul’s Missionary College also won the Europe Region award for the Global Young Achiever.

“This is another program bringing immense benefits to our students, thanks to the collaboration between all partners and, above all, the determination of Maureen Amoroso, who has led operations in Malta since the 2016/17 academic year,” said Minister Clifton Grima, encouraging all students and educators involved in the program to continue participating enthusiastically.

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Jake Pace Opens Up About Struggles Being Under-Weight

Jan 16 2025

Jake Pace, a contestant on Love Island Malta Season 2, shared an inspiring message on social media about his personal journey of transformation and self-discovery.

Reflecting on his struggles two years ago, Jake revealed, “I was at a point where I didn’t recognize myself in the mirror. I was underweight, insecure, and filled with self-doubt.”

Determined to change for himself rather than for others, he began a difficult but rewarding journey. “The journey wasn’t easy,” he admitted.

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A post shared by Jake Pace (@jake_pace21)

“There were countless days when I wanted to quit, times when progress seemed too far away. But I held on, kept pushing, and believed in my potential.” Over time, he saw not only physical progress but also a shift in his mindset.

After a year and a half of hard work, Jake was offered a spot on Love Island Malta, an experience he described as a turning point in his life. “It taught me to embrace who I am, to stay true to my character, and to realize that I don’t need to change to fit someone else’s expectations,” he wrote.

Now feeling confident and proud, Jake reflected on the lessons he’s learned: “You don’t need to change for anyone else. Change for yourself, for your happiness, and for your growth.”

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Special Olympics Malta Officially Launches Inclusive Program in Gozo

Jan 16 2025

The President of Special Olympics Malta, Dr. Lydia Abela, together with the Minister for Gozo and Planning, Clint Camilleri, officially launched the Special Olympics Malta program in Gozo. This initiative aims to provide inclusive sports opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities in Gozo, fostering both community participation and personal development.

Dr. Lydia Abela highlighted that this milestone coincides with the 25th anniversary of Special Olympics Malta, marking a significant achievement for the organization. “The expansion of our programs and services to Gozo has been a long-standing dream and goal,” she stated. “This is a step driven by the passion of a community that believes everyone has something valuable to contribute to society.” Dr. Abela emphasized the association’s commitment to empowering individuals and promoting inclusion through structured opportunities.

Minister Clint Camilleri also spoke about the government’s vision for Gozo as a hub of diversity and inclusion. He remarked, “Sports are about much more than physical activity—they create opportunities, build confidence, and encourage real societal inclusion. Our commitment remains focused on improving the quality of life for everyone, including those with disabilities.”

The program’s launch represents a collective effort to create an environment where every individual feels appreciated and supported. Dr. Sean Zammit, Head of Gozo College Network, and Christabel D’Amato, Sports Director at Special Olympics Malta, detailed the program’s goals and the positive impact it will have on participants.

The event brought together teachers, coaches, learning support educators (LSEs), and parents, reflecting a shared commitment to making Gozo a more inclusive community.

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