Bid to send 'keep Malta clean' message to all students

Tourism looks set to have a good future in the hands of the next generation of Maltese adults if an educational CD being distributed to all schools manages to drive home its message that a clean environment is essential to attracting visitors.

A total of 5,000 copies of the CD have been produced, on the initiative of Frank Salt, a former leading member of the Malta Tourism Authority. A copy is destined to reach each and every classroom on the island.

The Education Ministry, Rotary Club and HSBC Bank Malta were partners in its production.

The CD contains a power point presentation in English and Maltese accompanied by 135 pictures, some of them stunning views of beauty spots which strike a contrast with others showing rubbish-strewn sites. Heritage is also given prominence in the visuals, as are beaches, promenades and other tourist magnets.

The presentation seeks to raise consciousness of the environment and the importance of keeping it in a good state for both Maltese and visitors to enjoy. In very clear language, students are told about the importance of tourism for the economy and the crucial role a clean environment plays in its success.

The presentation is designed to stimulate class discussion, and Education Minister Louis Galea, launching the CD recently, urged that it be used not just in social studies classes but in English, Maltese, science and other lessons so that it might have a cross-curricular impact.

"The CD soon makes clear the difference between the beautiful and the ugly, between what elevates our country and what diminishes it. The more we are conscious of this, the greater the chance that the future generation becomes sensitive to it too, so that they may be able to care for the beauty around them," said Dr Galea.

Mr Salt said keeping the country "environmentally acceptable" hinged on educating children. "Our youth must be made aware that the care of our environment is absolutely essential for their future and the future of all Maltese.

"We have lost two or three generations of students over the past years who have grown up with a very couldn't care less attitude, and the result is there for all to see. We cannot combat this only by strict control and heavy fines, but it is far better for all of us if we control the future through education."

He said this CD was just the beginning - later on, more professional, perhaps interactive CDs could be developed.

"My sincere hope is that I never see again, in local newspapers, a cleanup campaign around our country, especially if the work is being done by the sailors of some visiting ship. It is so embarrassing to see foreigners seeing the need to clean up our country."