MEUSAC presented public libraries with a publication about the European Union for children aged 11 and 12 years, during an event at the National Public Library at Belt is-Sebħ in the presence of Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister Carmelo Abela, Head of MEUSAC Mandy Falzon and CEO of Malta Libraries Cheryl Falzon. The book was published by MEUSAC and the Europe Direct Information Centre, which is run by MEUSAC, with co-funding from the European Commission.
This book, published in November of last year, begins with Trevor Zahra’s story about a group of animals that recognise that the differences between them do not prevent them from living together in harmony. These animals choose to cooperate with each other so that no animal suffers. This allegory teaches that although each EU member state has its own identity stemming from culture, traditions, history and various other characteristics, member states work together towards common goals, rights and opportunities in various fields.
Throughout the story, readers are led to another part where they learn more about the key principles and values on which the European Union is based, in a stimulating yet understandable language. So far, more than 7,000 copies of this book have already been distributed to students of the seventh and eighth grade in all schools in our country apart from the fact that the book is also available online. Other copies were donated to the National Literacy Agency for use in their reading sessions. More copies are available from the MEUSAC and Europe Direct Offices in Valletta.
During this presentation Minister Carmelo Abela said that the European Union is complex and therefore the role of MEUSAC is to inform citizens about what is going on in the EU as well as to help them participate in the benefits offered in relation to European funds. He said that the government considers MEUSAC an important entity for citizens so that from an early age they are aware of the benefits and obligations as European citizens.
Minister Abela concluded that it is our duty to ensure that the future generation has the necessary awareness to be able to learn, and be informed, thus enabling it to improve its knowledge and make better decisions on the basis of the information received.
MEUSAC head Mandy Falzon said that one of the roles of MEUSAC and Europe Direct Valletta is to raise awareness about the European Union among various ages and categories of people in society.
Malta Libraries CEO Cheryl Falzon said that the book’s theme goes hand in hand with the aim of Malta Libraries to promote inclusion and the idea that one improves when they work in a team.
The book, in digital format, can be downloaded from: https://meusac.gov.mt/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Mas-Si%C4%A1ra-tal-Ballut.pdf.
