A brand new mascot designed to engage and educate schoolchildren across the country about the importance of Malta’s biodiversity has been launched.
In-Naħla Katerina, a project by the Foundation for the Conservation of the Maltese Honey Bee, will teach young children about the significance of pollinators and national species through music.
Three original songs are being created in collaboration with professionals in the field, each highlighting different aspects of the Maltese honey bee, its vital role in pollination and its recent designation as a national species.
The lively bee character will feature prominently in the slideshow-style videos accompanying the songs, ensuring that children can visualise and connect with the bee that plays such a crucial role in Malta’s ecosystem.
The mascot has been designed to reflect the distinctive dark colouration characteristic of the endemic Maltese honey bee. By incorporating this unique trait into the design, the initiative aims to familiarise students with their national insect and instil a sense of appreciation and pride in Malta’s natural heritage.
The name Katerina, derived from Greek meaning ‘pure’, not only reflects the purity of the Maltese honey produced by this bee but also aligns with the foundation’s goal of preserving and attaining pure specimens through back breeding of this unique subspecies.
Bringing learning to life
Beyond just appearing in videos and songs, In-Naħla Katerina will also make real-life visits to schools.
The mascot will embark on a nationwide school tour, bringing the message of conservation and biodiversity directly to young learners. Through these visits, children will have the opportunity to interact with the mascot, learn about the bee’s role in nature, and engage with the educational songs in a fun and memorable way.
The goal of this initiative is to ensure that children develop a lasting appreciation for pollinators and understand the importance of protecting them.
This project has been funded by the Small Initiatives Support Scheme (SIS) managed by the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector (MCVS) supported by the Ministry for Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector (MIV).
Text for this article was provided by the Foundation for Conservation of the Honey Bee.
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