Schoolchildren from Mellieħa Primary School celebrated World Diversity Day on May 15, during an initiative held in collaboration with Missio Malta.
The activity served to mark UNESCO’s World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, with the aim of highlighting the wealth of the world’s cultures and promoting peace through dialogue.
“Just like a beautiful rainbow, composed of many beautiful colours, we like to think of our society and the different cultures that constitute it, as the elements that make us special and stronger together. Our differences make us all the more interesting and our society as a whole, stronger,” Robert Farrugia, head of communication and fundraising at Missio Malta, said.
“The appreciation of diversity is naturally at the centre of all we do at Missio Malta, as we endeavour to make a difference in the lives of people in developing countries. That is why, we feel the value of diversity ought to be celebrated locally as well, to build stronger communities.”
Nancy Camilleri, who is responsible for reach-out initiatives on behalf of Missio Malta to schools around Malta and Gozo, explained the values behind the event.
“Our differences make us all the more interesting and our society as a whole, stronger”
“Bridging the gap between cultures leads to peace and harmony. It leads to growth and a more fulfilling emotional, moral and spiritual life. Ultimately Missio is about building relationships and learning more about each other. This is an opportunity to help our children open their hearts and minds to each other and celebrate together,” Camilleri said.
Mellieħa Primary School assistant head Rosemarie Mifsud explained how such events help the multi-ethnic school bring down barriers.
“At our school we are blessed with children of 38 different nationalities – a veritable kaleidoscope of colours and beauty. Through the event we organised in collaboration with Missio Malta we had the opportunity to explore each other’s different cultures, breaking down barriers of prejudice and misunderstanding. Such activities are essential to building bridges for stronger bonds that build a healthy society,” Mifsud said.
The event encouraged students to take part in a series of activities celebrating cultural diversity, through a variety of mediums including art and crafts, different languages, cuisine and flags.
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