The National Literacy Agency recently organised the prestigious Brillantini tal-Kitba writing activity in Rome, offering an exceptional educational opportunity to a select group of students from across Malta and Gozo. Every state primary school chose one Year 6 student to participate, based on outstanding writing performance in their Year 5 annual examinations.
This initiative serves not only as recognition of academic excellence but also as an immersive experience designed to inspire and enrich young writers. This year’s participants were granted the unique privilege of attending a papal audience, where they had the remarkable opportunity to see Pope Leo XIV up close—an unforgettable moment that added profound cultural and spiritual value to the experience.
Throughout the visit, students explored some of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. Guided by knowledgeable tour leaders from the Ufficio Scolastico Regionale Lazio, they engaged with the rich historical and cultural narratives of the city, deepening their understanding of its global significance. These visits were thoughtfully integrated with a series of writing tasks, allowing students to reflect on their experiences and express their ideas creatively within authentic and stimulating contexts.
The success of the activity was greatly supported by the collaboration and dedication of both the Ambassador of the Vatican, his Excellency Frank Zammit and the Ambassador of Italy, his Excellency Daniel Azzopardi, whose contributions were instrumental in ensuring the smooth organisation of the event. The students were given a certificate of participation and books as a souvenir for this event.
Overall, this event provided participants with a once-in-a-lifetime experience that seamlessly combined literacy development, cultural exposure, and personal growth. Such initiatives highlight the importance of recognising young talent and fostering a lifelong appreciation for writing and learning beyond the classroom.
