Over 400 children attend V.18 workshops held in collaboration with Skola Sajf

During the month of August, some 450 children from several localities attended workshops organised by Valletta 2018 Foundation within the framework of Skola Sajf, with the aim of providing information and generating interest in Valletta's bid to host the title of European Capital of Culture in 2018.

During the workshops, led by Malcolm Galea for V.18, the children were invited to contribute their ideas about culture and the arts in Malta and Valletta.

During the final event held today, the children presented their ideas to the rest of the group.

David Felice, Valletta 2018 Foundation Chairman said this event underlines the Foundation's commitment to ensure the direct participation of children in it's journey towards 2018.

The children of today will be the young men and women who will be at the heart of Valletta's ECoC and their ownership a determinant factor in its success. Valletta 2018 Foundation is currently preparing to present its final bid for the title of European Capital of Culture in 2018 on 14 September 2012.

This will then be judged by an international jury during the final selection meeting on the 12 October.

READ MORE: Seven artistic programme directors chosen for Valletta 2018 bid

Education Minister Dolores Cristina and the Family said this initiative aims at raising awareness about Valletta's bid to host the ECoC, amongst children and young youths who in 2018 will be between 12 and 14 years old.

She said that this year's programme of Skola Sajf offered children with a variety of sessions in drama, drawing, dance, song, sports, as well as a number of visits to places of cultural interest.

Culture Minister Mario de Marco said the growth of the cultural sectors requires everyone's participation, including that of our children.

He encouraged children to participate in such activities and cultural initiatives, in order to further their cultural knowledge.

He also encouraged the children present to participate and form part of the projects leading up to Valletta's European Capital of Culture.

The event was supported by Benna, Smoochie drinks and Agenda Bookshops.

Malcolm Galea is a playwright, actor and director whose works including a number of plays, musicals, television serials, and three pantomimes were showcased in Maltese theatres and television as well as the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and in London.