Chargé d’Affaires Ken Toko of the U.S. Embassy in Malta recently visited three schools in Gozo to meet with students and teachers engaged in NASA’s GLOBE Program. The visit showcased the inspiring work of young scientists from College Peter Paul Grech Primary School Kercem, College Sir Arturo Mercieca Primary School Victoria, and College Agius De Soldanis Middle School in Victoria. These schools contribute valuable environmental data to NASA through hands-on scientific investigations while fostering STEM education in Malta. All GLOBE projects and campaigns in Malta are coordinated and run by Ms. Ramona Mercieca, GLOBE Deputy Country Coordinator for Malta.
The visit began at Gozo College Peter Paul Grech Primary School Kercem, where students presented their investigation on Clover Seeds and then collected Surface Temperature Data from the school grounds. Using GLOBE protocols, they examined how temperature variations affect plant growth, contributing valuable insights to climate studies.
Next, Chargé d’Affaires Toko visited Gozo College Sir Arturo Mercieca Primary School Victoria, where students presented their research on Air Quality Monitoring. They explained how they collect data on nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels using diffusion tubes and track air quality parameters with sensors installed at the school. This project directly supports the ongoing GLOBE Air Quality Campaign, a STEAM Learning Ecology initiative aimed at raising awareness about environmental health and pollution.
The final stop was at Gozo College Agius De Soldanis Middle School Victoria, where students showcased their Pollinator Garden and collected Soil Surface Temperature Readings and Weather Parameters. They explained how, through the GLOBE Bloom and Buzz Project, they are raising awareness about the importance of bees in our ecosystems. Their work highlights the role of pollinators in biodiversity and food security.
Throughout the visit, Chargé d’Affaires Toko engaged with students, asking insightful questions about their scientific investigations and encouraging them to continue their contributions to global science. His visit highlighted the significant impact of the GLOBE Program in Malta and reinforced the importance of STEM education in shaping future scientists.
