A celebration event marking the successful completion of the GLOBE Water Wise Project was held at Villa Rundle on Saturday 9th May, recognising the dedication and commitment of students and educators from nine schools across Gozo.
The project, coordinated by GLOBE Malta in collaboration with EUROPE DIRECT Gozo, focuses on promoting STEAM education through hands‑on, outdoor learning while addressing key environmental challenges. This year’s edition centred on water sustainability, a critical issue for small island communities, and was directly linked to the European Green Deal and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to climate action, clean water and responsible use of natural resources.
During the event, all participating schools were presented with the newly launched STEAM and Sustainability Award. The award takes the form of a specially designed trophy including an outline of the island of Gozo and featuring the logos of the GLOBE Programme and EUROPE DIRECT Gozo. The trophy includes individual project badges, with one badge awarded for each completed GLOBE theme. Schools will continue to add new badges annually as they take part in future projects, highlighting long‑term commitment, continuity and progress in STEAM education and sustainability. Certificates and awards were presented by Ms Maria Elena Despott, Head of the European Commission Representation in Malta.
The trophy was designed by Ramona Mercieca, Deputy Coordinator of GLOBE Malta, and funded by EUROPE DIRECT Gozo. This year also marked the fourth consecutive year of collaboration between GLOBE Malta and EUROPE DIRECT Gozo, reflecting a shared commitment to environmental education aligned with European and global sustainability priorities.
Ramona Mercieca coordinates GLOBE campaigns across schools in Malta and Gozo, provides training for teachers and students, and supports schools throughout the entire scholastic year. Over recent years, participating schools have explored themes including Air Quality, Soil, Pollinator Gardens, Biodiversity and Water, all connected to sustainability, real‑world scientific investigation, the European Green Deal and the UN SDGs.
Following student presentations and the award ceremony, attendees visited the GLOBE Malta stall, where Ms Mercieca explained the GLOBE Programme’s role as a global citizen science initiative that empowers students to collect data, contribute to scientific research and take informed action locally. Posters and photographs on display showcased the extensive scientific and environmental work being carried out in schools.
Special thanks were extended to Mr Jesmond Buttigieg, Manager of EUROPE DIRECT Gozo, and Mr Daniel Borg, CEO of the Gozo Business Chamber, for their continued support, which has been instrumental in strengthening STEAM education and sustainability initiatives in Gozo.
