Birkirkara Primary School is set to undergo a complete modernisation under the government's €91 million EDU Infrastructure Programme, launched earlier this year. The transformation is part of a 13-year plan to upgrade more than 100 schools across Malta, with eight schools targeted each year.
Education Minister Clifton Grima announced the project during a visit to the Birkirkara school, where he met with the student council to discuss the proposed works and hear students' views. Accompanied by Permanent Secretary Matthew Vella, the Minister also outlined the consultation process taking place with educators, parents, and other stakeholders.
The Birkirkara Primary School, originally constructed in 1930, has undergone various renovations over the years. However, the latest project will be the most comprehensive to date, aiming to transform the school into a fully modern, inclusive and sustainable educational facility.
"This is an ambitious project through which we will invest directly in educators and students," said Minister Grima. "We're not only improving the school environment, but also safeguarding well-being by ensuring spaces are safe, sustainable and inclusive."
Once completed, the upgraded school will cater to approximately 900 students and 160 educators. Works will include the installation of security systems, modern utilities, an air conditioning system, and the integration of photovoltaic panels for clean energy. Double-glazed windows will also be added to improve insulation and energy efficiency.
The school will be adapted to meet the needs of children with different abilities, including students on the autism spectrum. The project aims to create a more accessible and inclusive environment, in line with national educational objectives.
To ensure the health and safety of staff and students, the school community will be temporarily relocated to other educational institutions during the renovation period.
The government's wider EDU Infrastructure Programme also prioritises sports and recreational facilities within schools. Birkirkara Primary will benefit from this with the modernisation of both indoor and outdoor sports areas, encouraging more diverse and active learning opportunities.
Permanent Secretary Matthew Vella described the initiative as a "key pillar" of Malta's National Education Strategy. "We are transforming schools to evolve with the needs of the community, while protecting cultural heritage and strengthening the role of education in national development," he said.
Sustainability plays a central role in the EDU Infrastructure Programme. All future school projects under this scheme will adopt energy-efficient systems and environmentally sustainable building materials.
The Birkirkara school project is part of the government's long-term commitment to placing students' and educators' well-being at the core of educational infrastructure. According to the Ministry for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation, the initiative reflects a shift towards future-ready schools that can support modern teaching practices and inclusive education.