The Office of the Commissioner for Children recently organised ‘Niċċelebraw Flimkien’ (celebrating together) at the Verdala Castle. The event was held in order to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Malta’s Ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Various government departments and agencies offering services to children in the health, education, environment, social protection, sports and cultural sectors as well as the National Youth Council and the National Commission for People with a Disability set up information stands to inform the public of the different services available for children and youths.

A special child-friendly information brochure about Verdala Palace was disseminated by the Office of the Commissioner for Children on the day. Other events included a police dog show and a first aid demonstration by young members of the St John Ambulance.

The Civil Protection Department showed children present how a fire engine operates, an interactive puppet show was held by the Drama Unit, there was a demonstration by the Malta Girl Guides and choir performances by Floriana Primary School and Agius de Soldanis Secondary School. The day was animated by In Guardia, who prepared a re-enactment for the occasion.

The Malta Sports Council and Għaqda Ħbieb tal-Presepju facilitated workshops and activities and students from Mcast offered their help throughout the day.

Children who attended this event were given a token by the Office of the Commissioner for Children and their choice of yoghurt, fruit or water offered by sponsors.

The children were also visited by President George Abela, Resources Minister George Pullicino, and Youth Secretary Clyde Puli.