The launch of the Lights Out Project, has been announced by Europe Direct Gozo, in collaboration with GLOBE Malta, marking the 5th consecutive year of collaboration between the two organisations.
The organisations explained that this year, 10 schools across Gozo will embark on an exciting educational journey, investigating light pollution, exploring its environmental impact, and raising awareness about the importance of protecting our night skies.
The launch event took place at the historic St Cecilia Chapel in Ghajnsielem, bringing together educators from participating schools and representatives of various organisations.
The programme included:
An informative presentation on light pollution by Prof. Joseph Caruana.
An overview of the project by Ms Ramona Mercieca, Project Coordinator and Deputy Coordinator of GLOBE Malta.
Addresses by Mr Jesmond Buttigieg, Manager of Europe Direct Gozo, and Mr Michael Galea, President of the Gozo Business Chamber, highlighting the importance of environmental education, sustainability and youth engagement.
During his address, Mr Buttigieg emphasised how the longstanding collaboration between Europe Direct Gozo and GLOBE Malta has developed into an annual commitment, creating meaningful opportunities for young people to engage in scientific research and environmental action.
Europe Direct Gozo said that it was also pleased to welcome Ms Julia Abid, representing the European Commission Representation in Malta, whose presence demonstrated support for this initiative.
It was further explained that through the Lights Out Project, students will become young researchers, developing their scientific investigation and critical thinking skills while contributing to greater environmental awareness.
The organisations wished all 10 participating schools, their educators and students every success on this exciting journey.
The participating schools are:
Gozo College Mons. Giovanni Andrea Vella Zebbug Primary School
Gozo College Guze Aquilina Primary & Special Unit Sannat
Gozo College Sir Arturo Mercieca Primary School Victoria – The Happy School
Gozo College Peter Paul Grech Primary School Kercem
Gozo College Xaghra Primary
Gharb Primary School
Laura Vicuna School
St Francis School Victoria
Sacred Heart Minor Seminary Gozo
Sir M.A. Refalo Sixth Form
Together with GLOBE Malta, Europe Direct Gozo said that they look forward to ”another successful year of inspiring young people to explore, understand and protect our environment.”
Photo: Europe Direct Gozo