A new Youth Hub has been inaugurated at MCAST, Paola, following the completion of a regeneration project.
The Minister for Education, Clifton Grima, and the Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Keith Azzopardi Tanti, were both present for this inauguration.
This area includes spaces where students may relax or work on projects, as well as an office and a space dedicated to the MCAST Student Council (KSM). This initiative was described as a reflection of the authorities' strong commitment towards providing a high-quality service and a more inclusive, accessible, and attractive environment for all young people who attend the institution.
Through this regeneration project, this space was renovated entirely and equipped with modern facilities, government said. The Ministry for Education described that it now fosters a better environment to more effectively cater for the needs of young people.
"This Youth Hub is a clear example of how education does not stop in the classroom," Education Minister Clifton Grima said "We are offering spaces where young people can grow, develop and learn in an active and practical way, in an environment that encourages them to express themselves."
Parliamentary Secretary Azzopardi Tanti described the MCAST Youth Hub as a space where youths may find support to develop their personal and social skills in a safe and inclusive environment.
"This project is clear proof of our commitment to value non-formal education and create new opportunities for every young person," he said.
The President of the MCAST Student Council, Matthew Sant, welcomed this Youth Hub, on behalf of KSM. He said that aside from serving students, it will be an active centre for participation, initiatives, and new collaborations for all MCAST students.
The Youth Hub is a non-formal education service led by Aġenzija Żgħażagħ. It is run by three trained youth workers who offer support and organise educational, creative and life skills activities, such as thematic talks, discussions, informal games, and outreach projects.
This space will also be used for the practical element of the "Community and Social Responsibility" MCAST module as a workshop centre for students deriving from the Mosta, Qormi, and Gozo institutions.
To allow more students to make use of this space, Aġenzija Żgħażagħ shall widen the Youth Hub's opening hours.
Life skills programmes are going to be offered in this centre in summer; this will open its doors towards young people from the southern region of Malta, including those still in secondary school.
This regeneration project was made possible following a collaboration between MCAST and various entities from the public and private sectors.