On personal individuality

How do you think individuality is treated in Malta?

I definitely think Malta is rather close-minded on individuality. There is not that much allowance for exploration. Giulia Scerri, 19, Bachelor of Communications with English.

I do not really observe certain issues. Daniel Zammit, 18, Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.

Individuality is not given its due importance. I think we are sometimes expected to act and conform to pre-defined ideas, in some circumstances, without being given enough space for our opinions and ideas. Jean Pierre Camenzuli, 20, Mcast Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Computer Networks.

Based on your personal experience, do you feel talent exploration is promoted in schools?

Yes, especially due to the internet, with talent shows, art projects, and so on. I think it is being promoted more than ever at University. Giulia Scerri

From my experience, talent exploration is rarely promoted in schools, especially in secondary and tertiary education. Daniel Zammit

It has certainly improved. But I still think we are far from having a culture where an individual’s ideas and talents are truly allowed to flourish freely. Jean Pierre Camenzuli

What effect does restricting talent development have on children?

There would definitely be less individuality, and children would most probably be more afraid to explore their own creativity and imagination. Giulia Scerri

I do not feel children are being restricted from developing their talents in any way. They are quite free to explore their thoughts in any way they see fit. Daniel Zammit

I think restricting talents is dangerous. Our talents and ideas are among the most important characteristics that distinguish us from one another. By restricting children from developing their talents, I think we would be effectively degrading the quality of our future society. Jean Pierre Camenzuli

Interviews conducted by Insite – The Student Media Organisation.