Leader of the Partit Nazzjonalista Alex Borg yesterday evening addressed young participants taking part in the second weekend session of the Future Leaders programme organised by AŻAD and the PN.

The three-day session is being held at the AŻAD premises in Valletta over the course of this weekend and provides participants with training and formation on a number of subjects.

Among the presentations being delivered to participants are sessions on themes such as electoral campaigns, public opinion surveys, the PN principles, how to take part in a debate, the role of civil society, Gozo, the economy and the environment.

In his address, PN Leader Alex Borg also referred to the Youth Think Tank, which serves as a permanent platform for young people to contribute directly both to the PN's vision and to the development of its policies. He said that the country belongs to young people and, as a young leader himself, he firmly believes in programmes such as this which provide tomorrow's leaders with the skills and opportunities they need to grow.

The opening of the second practical seminar for participants of the Future Leaders programme yesterday was also addressed by PN Secretary General Charles Bonello, who reiterated the importance of politics remaining the essential tool not simply to suggest ideas, but to bring about change and reform. It is therefore vital that young people continue to step forward and contribute their part.

Participants were also addressed by Charlò Bonnici, who is coordinating the programme. Also present was the Chief Executive of AŻAD, Roderick Agius.

This training course for young people is being organised with the support of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, a leading political foundation that promotes democracy, the rule of law and civic participation around the world. With offices in more than 100 countries, the Foundation - named after the first Chancellor of Germany after the Second World War - promotes peace, freedom and justice through political education and works with partners such as AŻAD and the Partit Nazzjonalista to empower young people, encourage leadership and strengthen democratic values.

AŻAD (Akkademja għall-Iżvilupp ta' Ambjent Demokratiku) is a think-tank founded in 1976 to serve as a centre of education inspired by Christian Democratic principles. It contributes to political studies, political formation and policy development in Malta by providing opportunities for exchange and training.

The Future Leaders programme is not simply a course, but an investment in young people, who are the future of Malta. Programmes such as this help participants develop the necessary skills and broaden their knowledge so that they can play an active role in policy development and help nurture a new generation of leaders for tomorrow.