At the end of three interesting and engaging days for the students of the IC De Roberto of Catania in the Maltese archipelago, on 29 September 2023 the Maltese SEA MARVEL team led by Professor Adriana Vella, PhD, organized a special event for the winners of the challenge maltese SEA MARVEL. Prof. Vella, as project coordinator of the University of Malta, welcomed all the students to the event and extended a warm welcome to the students from Catania who were able to enjoy this special occasion with their Maltese winning friends newly acquired. He opened the event with thoughtful messages about why the SEA MARVEL project could reach students, fishermen and sea users, while undertaking detailed science to better understand our evolving marine environment and marine life.
The event was hosted by the De La Salle College of Birgu and was honored by the presence of the Minister of the Environment Dr. Miriam Dalli who was also happy to interact with the Catania students. His inspiring speech and discussion with young people demonstrate a growing enthusiasm for future activities to work towards environmental protection. Likewise, Ministry of Education official Francesco Debono spoke to young people about the importance of developing skills related to the growing maritime workforce, including monitoring and management for sustainable development.
During their educational field visits to Maltese Natura 2000 sites, enthusiastically led by Dr. Clare Marie Mifsud, PhD. of the University of Malta, the students were involved in learning about research activities, monitoring, photo-identification of marine species and in in-depth sessions on the fascinating and delicate marine ecosystems.
Through the special SEA MARVEL challenges in schools, aimed at raising awareness among the younger generations, these students, both Sicilian and Maltese, have developed an understanding of the absolute need to rethink their relationship with the Planet, finding the right balance between the protection of all animals and plant species and the development of the anthropic environment.
In addition to visits to the marine protected areas of Ghar Lapsi and Ramla, the tour was an opportunity to learn about the fascinating history of Valletta and Gozo, a unique combination of natural beauty and historical-artistic heritage.
“Not only were the objectives of the SEA MARVEL project achieved – declares the school director, Professor Cinzia Giuffrida – but it was an unmissable opportunity to share high common objectives, identifying in a synergistic action the meaning and purpose of this ambitious project“.
The attention, professionalism and enthusiasm of all those involved were irreplaceable, including the students’ teachers, professors Spagnulo and Costanzo, who accompanied their students in enhancing significant moments of human and personal growth.
The SEA MARVEL project led by Prof. Iuri Peri of the University of Catania in collaboration with Prof. Adriana Vella of the University of Malta has managed to inspire future generations through their collaboration with schools in both Sicily and Malta, involving them in exciting events like this.
