St. Benedict College, Secondary School, Ħal Kirkop, emerged as the proud victors during the Aġenzija Żgħażagħ’s 5th edition of Young Parliamentarians #ejjewniddibattu finals, hosted at the Malta’s House of Representatives, and presided over by the esteemed Speaker, Hon. Dr Anġlu Farrugia. The winning school, with their exceptional performance, took home the coveted trophy and a €750 prize. Congratulations are also extended to the runners-up, St. Augustine’s College, Pietà, who received a commendable €250 prize. Recognition was also given to the two most outstanding debaters, whose exceptional performances throughout the competition deserved applause. The esteemed presence of several Members of Parliament, including Hon. Keith Azzopardi Tanti, Hon. Bernice Busuttil, Hon. Justin Schembri, and Hon. Dr
This year’s programme boasted an impressive participation of 175 young people from 20 schools across Malta and Gozo. The competition commenced with a dynamic group stage held at the Aġenzija Żgħażagħ Youth Village in Santa Venera. Here, the 20 participating schools were divided into four groups, each engaging in debates on various contemporary topics, including elderly care, racism, cultural preservation, air pollution, infrastructure development, volunteerism, national celebrations, artistic expression, tourism, and environmental protection. Following 40 debates, eight schools advanced to the final phase.
The culmination of the Young Parliamentarians programme took place in the very heart of Maltese democracy, the House of Representatives in Valletta. This final phase provided a unique opportunity for these young people to step beyond the classroom environment and experience democracy firsthand. Debating on a range of pressing contemporary issues—language policy, road license, health, mobility, and the influence of artificial intelligence—the young people showcased their critical thinking and persuasive abilities within the hallowed halls of parliament.
A round of applause is due to all the participants who made this year’s Young Parliamentarians #ejjewniddibattu a resounding success! This programme exemplifies how education can encourage young people to become active and engaged citizens, ultimately shaping a brighter future for Malta.
