It was recently announced that the Nationalist Party is starting a course of studies for those aged between 14 and 25. The aim is to train the young generation for public and political life. We do need special and specific courses in this field.

On paper, the subjects prepared by AŻAD, a PN foundation, are very useful and may prove to be a beneficial initiative. However, since these studies are organised by a political party, I have a problem with part of the course: political thought.

Of course, the party holding the course expects to gain as much support and eventual affiliation as possible. The youngsters attending this course will, no doubt, have a branch of their own and representation in the party’s organs. The objective is clear.

I wonder, will political studies serve as a means of indoctrination for the sole advantage of the party in question or will it be an open subject? If so, is it justified to consider those aged 14 and 16 to be prepared and mature enough to analyse the message and talks of a political nature?

I see no mention of values in the course topics listed. If values are considered important, what sort of training is envisaged? Will it depend on what the party believes in?

Personally, I think training in any partisan political orientation should only be done when one is mature as it may prove to be dangerous due to various repercussions.

Many years ago, there was a similar situation in Malta when children and young people were organised in a branch within a political party. It was different but the aim was identical. Many had disagreed that youngsters be used for political purposes. Eventually, the branch was wisely dissolved.