The Young Shapers Forum is officially launched

A Forum providing a structured space for students aged 11 to 15 to express and advance their views on the country

The Young Shapers Forum has been officially launched by the Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue, Andy Ellul. This initiative provides students aged 11 to 15 with a platform within the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development (MCESD) to present their ideas and opinions on a range of issues affecting the country.

The Young Shapers Forum was established under the MCESD Act and is run by MCESD in collaboration with the Office of the Commissioner for Children. Through this Forum, students will have the opportunity to represent the views of their peers and contribute meaningfully to discussions. During the launch, students were introduced to one another and to the role of MCESD, while also being encouraged to share what they would like to see change or improve in the country.

Parliamentary Secretary Andy Ellul explained that the Forum offers a structured and inclusive platform for students to express their views not only on current issues but also on matters that will shape Malta’s future.

MCESD Chairperson Maria Micallef highlighted the importance of involving younger generations in national discussions and stressed that the Young Shapers Forum will strengthen inclusiveness in social dialogue.
“This is an important step for MCESD as a key platform where the country’s main socio-economic themes are discussed. Through this initiative, we are giving students the opportunity to take part in these discussions and put forward their recommendations,” she said. She emphasised that students will not only be given a voice but will also play a role in shaping the country’s future. “With this initiative, MCESD is ensuring that children and young people have a dedicated platform to share their views.”

The Commissioner for Children, Ms Antoinette Vassallo, highlighted the importance of children’s right to active participation and to be heard on matters that affect them.
“This Forum provides children with a safe space where they can express their views, learn to listen to one another, and understand the value of social dialogue,” she explained. She added that this initiative presents a unique opportunity for children to learn how social dialogue works in practice through the collaboration between the Office of the Commissioner for Children and MCESD.

Concluding the launch, Parliamentary Secretary Andy Ellul reiterated that the Young Shapers Forum is a unique opportunity for children to experience social dialogue in practice, made possible through the joint work of the Office of the Commissioner for Children and the MCESD.

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