71 projects have been approved in the 'Open Horizons: Education through Indoor and Outdoor Learning Scheme' initiative, the Ministry for Education stated.
The Ministry said that through the new initiative for innovative learning in connection with the National Strategy for Education 2024-2030, almost half a million euros have been distributed for the 71 projects that will be carried out in schools across the country.
It said that through this initiative, schools were encouraged to create innovative learning projects inside or outside the classroom which strengthen the involvement of students in STEM subjects, literacy, and mathematics.
The Ministry said that the projects submitted are all creative in nature and propose innovative ways to integrate curriculum learning inside or outside the classroom. It added that projects involving collaboration between students, educators, parents, or local communities were encouraged, so that education and the community of every town or village in our country continue to be brought closer together.
Minister Grima remarked that through this scheme, "The Ministry is investing in projects that give life to the main principles of the National Education Strategy, thus ensuring that students are equipped with important critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and the creativity needed for their future success and to reach their aspirations."
The Ministry stated that this initiative represents a tangible change in the educational approach in Malta, and reflects the Ministry's commitment to modernize and strengthen the learning experience for students throughout the country. It continued that educators were encouraged to create projects to extend learning beyond the traditional classroom environment, "An initiative that aims to improve the academic and personal development of students while promoting creative and practical experiences."
It commented that this transformation is central to the future of education in Malta and forms part of the Ministry's work to build a system "that is not only academically sound, but also responds to the needs of the student for the present and also for the future".
Permanent Secretary Matthew Vella said that the significant level of interest reflects the commitment of the school management to strengthen the learning goals through innovation. "The granting of the scheme's funds is part of the tangible transformation that is taking place through the National Education Strategy 2024-2030, which reflects the Ministry's commitment to strengthen learning through innovative experiences for all students." He remarked that initiatives like this and the transformation of education that is taking place ensure a leap in quality for educators and students.
Referring to the 71 projects, the Ministry said that 41 of them are for outside while 30 are for inside the schools. It added that the Guardian Angel, Helen Keller, San Miguel, and Dun Manwel Attard resource centres are also benefiting from the scheme.