Minister encourages students to build on their successes and fulfil their potential for the future
The academic achievements, talents and contributions of students at Ġan Franġisk Abela Junior College were celebrated during the annual prize-giving ceremony for 2026, in the presence of Minister for Education and Sport Byron Camilleri. The ceremony recognised the work, commitment and dedication of students who distinguished themselves in different areas throughout their educational journey.
During the ceremony, awards were presented to students who achieved excellent results in various subjects at Advanced and Intermediate level, as well as to students who stood out through their participation in College life. Special awards included the Principal’s Award, the Chairperson’s Award and the Rector’s Award, while achievements in sport, culture, creative writing and student leadership were also recognised. The ceremony also honoured a former student for his significant contribution to society.
In his address, Minister Camilleri congratulated the students on their achievements, emphasising that behind every success lie hours of study, sacrifices, determination and perseverance. He stressed that these awards recognise not only the results achieved, but also the skills, talents and values the students developed during their years at the College.
“Tonight we are celebrating your work, commitment and successes. Each award represents hours of study, sacrifices and, above all, your determination to keep working towards the goals you have set yourselves. But success is not measured solely by marks, grades and certificates. Education gives us much more than academic knowledge. It teaches us to think, ask questions, face challenges and develop our character. These are the skills and values that stay with us throughout our lives and help us achieve our aspirations. I therefore encourage you not to be afraid to dream, to continue investing in yourselves and to seize the opportunities that come your way. Our country needs your energy, thinking and ideas, because you will continue to build Malta’s future,” Minister Camilleri said.
For his part, the Principal of Ġan Franġisk Abela Junior College, Paul Xuereb, stressed the importance of the ceremony as recognition of students’ work and achievements.
“Today we held the annual prize-giving ceremony, which is a very important occasion for our College, because through it we reward and recognise students’ excellence. We recognise those students who distinguish themselves both in academic subjects and in the different activities in which they participate,” Xuereb said.
Former Junior College student Steve Zammit Lupi, who received an award in recognition of his significant contribution to society, recalled his experience as a student at the College.
“Tonight I received recognition through the Alumni Award, during a wonderful evening that brought back many fond memories of my time as a student here, 15 years ago. I can say that I spent two of the best years of my life at this College. It was a wonderful time when you move forward not only educationally, but also socially, as you mature, learn from experiences, make new friends and prepare yourself for everyday life,” Zammit Lupi said.
The Minister, who is also a former Junior College student, shared personal experiences from his time at the College, recalling the important role this experience played in shaping him. He maintained that, beyond academic learning, the Junior College years offer young people an opportunity to develop their personalities, build friendships, discover new interests and prepare for the next stages of life.
While acknowledging the contribution of lecturers, parents and College staff to students’ successes, Minister Camilleri encouraged the young people to continue their educational journey with the same commitment and enthusiasm, and to see challenges and obstacles as opportunities to learn and grow. He urged them to use the knowledge and skills they had acquired not only for their personal development, but also to make a positive contribution to society, reminding them that the achievements being celebrated should mark the beginning of a new chapter full of opportunities and aspirations.
Photos: DOI/MES
