Students in Kirkop have been given the opportunity to help name a new €1.4 million respite centre for persons with disabilities, set to open soon, as part of an initiative promoting youth participation and inclusion.
A government statement said that Year 10 students from St Benedict College, Paul Saydon Secondary School in Kirkop, took part in an interactive session on the disability sector in Malta, where they were invited not only to share their ideas on inclusion and services for persons with disabilities, but also to contribute to the naming of a project set to open in the same locality.
Inclusion Minister Julia Farrugia explained that the project involves an expenditure of €1.4 million and includes a new community-based facility in Kirkop.
The facility will offer temporary respite services accommodating up to 12 persons at a time, transitional services to support individuals with disabilities in developing independent living skills, and personalised programmes based on detailed professional assessments carried out by Aġenzija Sapport.
The service will be run in collaboration with a voluntary organisation and will be based on the principle of "active support," ensuring that persons with disabilities are actively involved in daily life and achieve the highest possible level of independence.
A multidisciplinary team of professionals will oversee individuals' progress, ensuring that each person meets their goals in line with their individual plans and in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which promotes community inclusion and deinstitutionalisation, the statement said.
During the activity, students were also invited to propose names for the new facility, as part of an initiative encouraging young people to actively participate in decisions affecting their community.
Student Amber Marie Fenech said the experience made them feel involved and heard, while Declan Vella described the project as an important step towards a more inclusive society, particularly for the southern region.
Kirkop Mayor Matthew Agius Zammit was also present for the activity.
Farrugia expressed satisfaction at the level of awareness shown by students on inclusion, speaking of the importance of the project for the south of Malta.
She added that such initiatives, alongside education, help strengthen awareness of the rights of persons with disabilities.
"This project in Kirkop is a concrete investment in the quality of life of persons with disabilities and their families. We are building services that not only provide temporary support but also strengthen independence and dignity," Farrugia said.
During the session, Aġenzija Sapport Director Maria Cynthia Debono also presented information on the services available to persons with disabilities, followed by an active discussion with students on the importance of inclusion in society.