It is never too soon to start teaching young people about the value of entrepreneurship, argues Christopher Bezzina.

There is clearly a move in Malta to start taking entrepreneurship seriously. Suffice to mention the link between the Education and Finance Ministries to run a one-day conference on the subject.

There is broad agreement among leaders that our children need to develop and possess the 21st century skills of problem-solving, critical thinking, entrepreneurship and creativity.

Entrepreneurship education should be viewed as a lifelong learning process. It needs to be an experience for one and all, for all children, at all stages of education.

It is with this in mind that I adhere to the definition of entrepreneurship as "an individual's ability to turn ideas into action. It includes creativity, innovation and risk-taking, as well as the ability to plan and manage projects in order to achieve objectives. This supports everyone in day-to-day life at home and in society ...".

In my capacity, I need to create a context for debate and set a direction if we want entrepreneurship to be recognised and established as an essential skill for the future.

Some might argue for the need to turn entrepreneurship education into another subject with an allocated number of lessons per week. I strongly argue for a different model. Entrepreneurship education is about skills that cannot be limited to a particular subject.

I am for a programme that sees entrepreneurship education woven into the curriculum. It can be easily integrated into science, mathematics, languages, social studies and art, just to mention a few subjects.

Here are a few examples for incorporating entrepreneurship sessions:

Science: Students can conduct tests for bacteria around school and generate a report. Using this data, they can then create a marketing campaign to sell anti-bacterial soap and wipes.

Mathematics: Using spreadsheets, students can project the operating costs of this business.

Languages: students can write the business plan.

Social studies: Students can create a village or town and determine the types of businesses the community will need.

The arts: Students can use web design software to create web pages for student performers. The websites can incorporate artwork, audio clips, videos, and other multimedia resources.

Entrepreneurship can be taught in all disciplines and experienced in everyday life.

Another way is to focus on entrepreneurship by planning activities outside school hours, allowing for greater involvement of parents, the community and the business world. A National Entrepreneurship Week can be easily organised, during which colleges can plan out a variety of activities/experiences.

Activities could include inviting local entrepreneurs to speak at an assembly; setting up a fair which local and foreign business people could attend; hosting a business lunch, where local entrepreneurs could meet students matched according to their particular area of interest.

We need to tap the resources in our communities. Local organisations and businesses need to provide their support through, for example, internship opportunities.

Entrepreneurship education is important, because even if a child does not go into a small business ownership, the skills learnt are what employers look for - the ability to be innovative, adaptable and productive - collaborating, questioning and challenging and problem-solving.

Different entities, including ministries, local councils and companies, can come together with our ministry to engage with schools from the state, church and private sectors. Together, we can help develop in the skills needed not only to help our younger generation. The 21st century calls for new approaches to learning, innovative thinking, promotion of ethical values and attitudes. The challenge is, first and foremost, one directed at educators.

Educators need to learn to engage in different ways if they are to prepare tomorrow's citizens. It is up to us to make a difference in their lives, and in ours.

Dr Bezzina is permanent secretary, Ministry of Education.

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