Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1530005
6 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 29 NOVEMBER 2024 NEWS Three children's local councils take root in Gozo IN an interesting initiative, the very first Children's Local Councils in Gozo have been es- tablished, in hopes of fostering youth engagement and commu- nity development. Spearheaded by the Malta Foundation for the Wellbeing of Society (MFWS), this initiative provides a platform for children to voice their ideas and actively participate in shaping their local- ities. Għarb led the way, becom- ing the first locality in Gozo to launch its Children's Council. Here, young participants met with the mayor and councillors, sharing their innovative ideas to enhance their community. Soon after, Xewkija followed suit, with children emphasising environmental preservation, par- ticularly the importance of keep- ing Gozo's seas clean. Ta' Kerċem joined as the third locality, where young voic- es championed inclusion and sports, envisioning a more inclu- sive community for all children. This initiative is part of a larger vision by MFWS, founded by H.E. Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, to es- tablish children's councils in all 68 Maltese and Gozitan localities. The RIGHTS project, which aims to achieve this goal, recently received a €200,000 boost from EU funds. These funds, secured in collaboration with the Edu- cation and Local Government Ministries and the Local Coun- cils Association, will support the creation of six regional Children's Councils in 2024, mirroring Mal- ta's adult regional councils. During the project's launch, Prime Minister Robert Abela highlighted its role in nurturing active citizenship among young Maltese. Chairperson Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca reflected on the nearly decade-long journey to this milestone, emphasizing the councils as a "missing link" in empowering children's voices na- tionwide. "These councils will help chil- dren develop critical thinking and active citizenship, ensuring their participation in decisions shaping our country's future," she said. Sharon Cilia, a former Chil- dren's Council member, under- scored the importance of this initiative, stating, "This is not a privilege but a fundamental right that enables children's dreams and ideas to flourish." In addition to amplifying young voices, these councils serve as a training ground, preparing chil- dren to navigate current affairs and make informed decisions as they transition into adulthood. This progressive step builds on Malta's commitment to youth empowerment, following the leg- islative move allowing individuals as young as 16 to hold top posi- tions in local councils. Gozo's pioneering Children's Councils in Għarb, Xewkija, and Ta' Kerċem exemplify a future where every child has a voice, fostering a culture of inclusivity, activism, and sustainable devel- opment. Gharb was the first locality in Gozo to launch its Children's Council (top, left), followed by Xewkija (top, right) and Kercem (above) EkoGhawdex to launch new calls for environmental projects in coming weeks GOZO Minister Clint Camilleri has announced that EkoGħawdex will soon issue calls for tenders related to big en- vironmental projects planned for 2024. The tenders are all currently being vetted by the Ministry's public procure- ment section and are expected to be published within a few weeks. These initiatives include the construc- tion of rural roads and restoration of traditional rubble walls, all co-financed by European funds. "The calls for tenders have been pre- pared and are currently being reviewed by the Ministry's public procurement section. These tenders are expected to be published in the coming weeks," Camilleri said this week. Answering parliamentary questions by Opposition MP Chris Said in writ- ing, Camilleri also outlined some of the projects. The Directorate of EkoGħawdex plans to rebuild three rural roads; Triq Ta' Spiteri, Triq Għajn Abdul to Wied Juno, and Triq Klula, at an estimated cost of over €1.97 million. Additional- ly, rubble walls in Triq San Niklaw will be reconstructed at an estimated cost of €196,565.