On the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the OASI Foundation commemorated the 35th anniversary of its founding, marking years of tireless work supporting individuals facing dependency issues and their families.
The celebration, held at the Foundation's headquarters in Gozo, served as a tribute to all those who have contributed over the past 35 years to turning the dream of its founder, Fr Manwel Cordina, into a reality. What began as a vision to provide hope to those who had lost their way has grown into an organization offering a wide range of services, including prevention, therapy, rehabilitation, outreach, and aftercare.
In his address, the Foundation's CEO, Noel Xerri, described this anniversary as a celebration not only of the beginning of OASI but also of everyone who has helped keep Fr. Manwel Cordina's dream alive. He paid tribute to the founders, past and present Board members, professionals, staff, volunteers, benefactors, public entities, and beneficiaries who have all contributed to fulfilling the Foundation's mission.
Xerri noted that OASI began with a single community service and now offers five distinct services covering prevention, outreach, a day program, a residential program, and aftercare. Over these 35 years, more than 6,000 individuals have reached out to the Foundation, while thousands more have benefited from educational and prevention programs in schools, workplaces, and the community. He stated that through the founder's vision and the commitment of those who built upon it, thousands have found a "ray of light," renewed hope, and the opportunity to rebuild their lives.
Xerri emphasised that the use of substances such as cocaine and cannabis continues to rise, alongside the practice of using multiple substances simultaneously, which carries serious consequences for mental health and families. He appealed for society to view these realities honestly without downplaying the dangers, while asserting that prevention remains one of the most vital tools for protecting future generations.
The Chairperson of the OASI Foundation, Joseph Borg, described the anniversary as a celebration of Fr. Manwel Cordina's vision and belief. He stated that the founder's dream was realized because he believed in change and the potential of every person. He called for clear and responsible messaging regarding dependencies and urged all entities and political forces to work together for the common good, noting that addiction does not discriminate and impacts society as a whole.
In a recorded message, President Myriam Spiteri Debono praised the work of the OASI Foundation as a place of refuge, guidance, and dignity for those living through the reality of addiction. She emphasized that addiction should never define a person and that society's response must be built on prevention, education, support, treatment, and, above all, empathy. The President also acknowledged the Foundation's work in the field of prevention, particularly the campaign that led to the prohibition of recreational nitrous oxide use, as well as the €2.3 million investment announced by the Government to further strengthen the services offered by the Foundation.
During the celebration, the "Ġieħ l-OASI" award was presented to the Għajnsielem Local Council for its key role in advocating for the prohibition of recreational nitrous oxide use, as well as to the "Smartphone Free Childhood Gozo" initiative for its commitment to fostering a healthier childhood, free from the pressures and negative effects of social media.