President of Malta George Vella stressed the need for work to continue promoting the correct use of Malta’s national language. He was speaking during an event organised on the Maltese Language Academy Day, during which he presented the ‘Ġieħ l-Akkademja tal-Malti’ Gold Medal 2021 to Prof. Manwel Mifsud. This honour is given to those who distinguish themselves by working throughout their lives for the Maltese language and Maltese literature.
The President remarked that the work of Prof. Mifsud as a teacher of the dynamics of elements in the Maltese language adopted from other languages and of the historical morphology of the Maltese language should spur us on to do whatever it takes to cherish our language and use it appropriately. He recalled that Prof. Mifsud has made an important contribution, a clear example of how the work of a linguist like him can bear much desired fruit when it comes to the environments and places where language is used. His contribution can also be gathered in a long list in terms of popular creative expressions such as Maltese songs.
“This is not the only honour that has recognised the work and contribution of Prof. Mifsud,” said the President. “Today’s honour is nothing but a link to the European Prize for Literature given to Prof. Mifsud in 2011 and the official recognition of the state when Prof. Mifsud was appointed as a member of the Order of Merit of the Republic in 2013 by my predecessors. I am convinced that he will receive this honour with the same humility and that it will encourage him to continue working for the benefit of the Maltese language.”
The President augured that work would continue so that this legacy will not only be a moment linked to the recognition of efforts already made with so much commitment, but also the starting point for a lasting commitment in favour of our language.
Among those who attended the event, held at Sant’Anton Palace under the distinguished patronage of the President and Mrs Vella, were members of the L-Akkademja tal-Malti as well as relatives and friends of Prof. Mifsud.
Photos: OPR
