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3 maltatoday | SUNDAY • 21 SEPTEMBER 2025 SCIENCE Esplora launches its education programme for the scholastic year 2025 –2026 ESPLORA Interactive Science Centre has officially launched its Education Programme for the 2025–2026 scholastic year, reaf- firming its commitment to in- spiring curiosity and promoting STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathe- matics) education across Malta and Gozo. The event was held at Esplora on 18 September 2025. Guests received a preview of the centre's newest educational offerings, fea- turing a preview of the variety of hands-on workshops, a taster of the early years programme, and live demonstrations of interac- tive science shows in the Science Theatre. Present at the event were key government officials, who praised Esplora's contribution to Malta's education and innovation sectors. Clifton Grima, Minister for Ed- ucation, Sport, Youth, Research, and Innovation said: "With this program, we are reaffirming our commitment to such an impor- tant sector within the education system, with the aim of encour- aging more students to choose STEAM subjects. Through this scientific and educational ini- tiative — a hands-on program that brings science to students of all ages — we are renewing our commitment to an education that unites knowledge with cre- ativity. Education should be alive and relevant, and that is exactly what we are seeing today." Keith Azzopardi Tanti, Par- liamentary Secretary for Youth, Research, and Innovation, added: "Science centres like Esplora play a vital role in nurturing creativity and scientific thinking. Investing in STEAM is investing in the fu- ture of our country." Mary Ann Cauchi, Senior Di- rector at Esplora, underlined the importance of integrating the arts into STEM education to create a more holistic learning experience. "By embracing the 'A' in STEAM, we're encourag- ing creativity alongside scientific inquiry," Cauchi said. "The arts play a vital role in helping stu- dents make connections, express ideas, and think critically. This year's programme reflects our belief that innovation flourishes when science and creativity go hand in hand." Kiki Mizzi, Deputy Director for STEAM Engagement, presented the updated programme struc- ture, emphasising its alignment with the national curriculum and its accessibility to learners of all backgrounds and abilities. "Inclu- sivity is at the heart of everything we do," Mizzi said. "We've de- signed this programme to ensure that every student—regardless of age, ability, or learning style—has the opportunity to engage mean- ingfully with science. By align- ing closely with the curriculum, we're also supporting educators in delivering content that is both relevant and inspiring." For more information about Esplora's 2025–2026 Educa- tion Programme or to schedule school visits, please contact: ed- ucation@esplora.org.mt, www. esplora.org.mt, 2360 2300. Esplora will be openning Mon- day's from 29 September. Education Minister Clifton Grima Esplora, Senior Director, Mary Ann Cauchi