A group of 41 young people from Malta have been selected to take part in the prestigious DiscoverEU initiative. A programme under the European Union’s Erasmus+ scheme offering them the opportunity to travel across Europe and immerse themselves in a unique intercultural learning experience.

The DiscoverEU initiative, open to EU citizens aged 18, provides successful applicants with a travel pass to explore Europe for up to 30 days. Participants also receive a DiscoverEU European Youth Card, granting them access to various discounts and cultural activities throughout their journey.

Minister for European Funds and the Implementation of the Electoral Programme, Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, congratulated the selected youths, stating, “The Government remains committed to investing in our young people. Through initiatives like DiscoverEU, we are not only providing opportunities to travel, but also empowering the next generation to contribute to a more sustainable and united Europe. These efforts align with Malta’s Vision 2050, which places youth at the heart of social, economic and environmental progress.”

The European Union Programmes Agency (EUPA) is the national contact point for DiscoverEU in Malta. Marvic Debono, Programme Manager within the EUPA Project Support Unit, highlighted the value of the initiative: “This will be a very enriching experience for these young people. It will help them expand their horizons, boost self-confidence, and gain vital life skills.”

One of the selected participants, 18-year-old Matthew Farrugia, shared his excitement: “This is an incredible opportunity to meet new people and experience different cultures across Europe.”

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The regeneration project at Hastings Garden in Valletta has been completed, bringing significant improvements in accessibility, safety, and overall aesthetic value.

The project included the planting of shrubs and greenery to enhance the visual appeal of the space, the installation of a modern public toilet that is fully accessible to persons with disabilities and equipped with child-friendly facilities, and the implementation of a new security system with surveillance cameras aimed at reducing vandalism and preventing accidents in the garden.

These upgrades were announced during a site visit by Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government Alison Zerafa Civelli and Valletta Mayor Olaf McKay, who were joined by local councillors.

The project forms part of the Malta 2050 Vision, aimed at creating high-quality open spaces that are accessible and enjoyable for all.

Parliamentary Secretary Zerafa Civelli explained that the project was one of several currently being carried out through funds issued by the Local Government Division. She said the initiatives are evidence of the government’s continued efforts to improve the quality of life in Maltese communities.

“This project confirms the government’s ongoing investment in local councils to bring about meaningful change in people’s lives. The Valletta Local Council is setting a positive example, demonstrating that safety, accessibility and cleanliness can go hand-in-hand with high-quality public spaces.” said Zerafa Civelli.

Valletta Mayor Olaf McKay echoed these sentiments, stating that the project reflects the council’s commitment to making the capital a cleaner, safer, and better organised city, where every public corner is maintained and adapted for all citizens.

“This project is a clear example of how investment in public spaces can make a tangible difference in people’s lives. We have a responsibility to protect and improve our open spaces, not only through safety, but also through beauty and accessibility. Hastings Garden is now a place that everyone can enjoy, and we will continue to work to keep it safe and welcoming in our capital city.” he concluded.

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