Minister Anton Refalo together with Minister Clifton Grima launched the fourth edition of the Let’s Talk Farming programme, while presenting awards to schools for their contribution to the third edition of the programme.
This initiative, which has become an important pillar for agricultural education in the country, has seen 61 schools across Malta and Gozo take part. This means that around 18,500 students – aged between four and fifteen – have benefited from training and experiences that teach and inspire. The aim of the programme remains to nurture a generation that understands and appreciates the process by which local produce reaches our table.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights Anton Refalo explained how this initiative is fulfilling another promise of the Government in the field of agricultural education. “Through this programme we want children to understand the value of local produce, responsible food consumption and the role of farmers and ranchers in our society. Our commitment is to continue to provide more opportunities for students to participate in practical activities of growing and caring for plants in schools.”
Minister for Education, Sports, Youth, Research and Innovation Clifton Grima said, “This is a programme that takes our students beyond the curriculum, but through which it is reinforcing the learning that students receive in the classroom. It is important that we show students the different aspects, so that while we broaden their knowledge, we are helping them in what they encounter in their daily lives, as well as helping them in their career choices.” He praised the initiative that is widespread in schools, and said that these types of programmes and initiatives continue to strengthen what is the complete education that we want to give to our students.
During the third edition, participating schools enjoyed a range of educational activities that included expert talks, informative sessions from the Agribusiness Institute within MCAST, awareness on water conservation, planting activities and visits to the Farmers’ Market. In addition, seeds, blackberry trees and ornamental plants were distributed, along with educational material such as thematic posters and agricultural books for school libraries.
It was also announced that an investment of €50,000 has been made to facilitate educational visits to the program’s partners and more than €15,000 in talks adapted to each age level, so that the children’s experience is both educational and practical.
During the same event, 39 schools that met the established criteria of the program were awarded: one school at Platinum level, eight Gold, fourteen Silver and sixteen Bronze. These schools gained recognition not only for their participation, but also for improving educational standards through innovative activities and continuous commitment throughout the scholastic year.
In addition, 2,000 certificates of recognition were presented to educators who contributed to the continued growth of this program. Educators remain an essential element in the success of the program in each edition.
The Ministers thanked schools, educators, university students, the private sector and international delegations for their collaboration. Together we are making a real and sustainable difference in the agricultural and educational sectors of our country.
The Let’s Talk Farming program will now enter its fourth year, with more ideas, more commitment and more opportunities for students to discover and embrace the agricultural values that are part of our identity.
