‘Ikber magħna’ – Optimist Club of Malta’s first ever project launched

The Optimist Club of Malta has inaugurated Ikber magħna, their first ever project launched together with the Birgu local council, in the presence of Dr Justyne Caruana, Minister for Education. Ikber magħna aims to assist vulnerable children, aged eight to 10, with their studies and homework, as well as providing educational extra-curriculum activities.

In his inaugural address, Reuben Buttigieg, president of the Optimist Club of Malta spoke about his long-standing vision of giving a helping hand to vulnerable children during after-school hours. He explained how he came across Optimist International, whose mission is to help others in different regions.

Buttigieg thanked the other founding members, who joined the Optimist Club of Malta, enabling it to become a recognised voluntary organisation as of last June. Shortly thereafter, Optimist approached John Boxall, mayor of Birgu and asked for his assistance on this project. Boxall recognised the immense value of Ikber magħna and accepted immediately. Discussions were held to turn this project into a reality, wherein vulnerable children aged eight to 10, can find crucial assistance with their studies and homework, as well as several educational extra-curriculum activities.

Buttigieg concluded his address by thanking the numerous sponsors who believed in this worthy project and extended their rigorous support towards its establishment.

On his part, the Birgu mayor thanked Optimist for this unprecedented opportunity which sees Birgu as the first locality to participate in Optimist’s first ever project. He emphasised the importance of education for the wellbeing of our younger generation and reiterated that the Birgu local council will fully support this initiative.

Dr Justyne Caruana, Minister for Education, spoke about the importance of recognising that the education of our young minds goes beyond school hours. In her speech Dr Caruana stated that this project will provide an extra helping hand to children who need it.

A memorandum of understanding was later signed between Optimist Club of Malta and the Birgu local council.