European funds strengthening inclusive educational and therapeutic services for children with disabilities
Minister Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi during a visit to Inspire Malta in Marsaskala.
Investment through European funds is continuing to support inclusion and equality in Malta, with Inspire Malta benefitting from programmes that strengthen specialised services for children with disabilities.
Minister for European Funds and the Implementation of the Electoral Programme Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi visited Inspire’s premises in Marsaskala, an organisation providing specialised educational and therapeutic services, with a focus on early intervention, inclusive education and active participation in the community.
Inspire has a long track record of participation in European volunteering programmes, starting from the European Voluntary Service under the Youth Programme, continuing through Erasmus+, and today through the European Solidarity Corps (ESC). Through these programmes, Inspire has benefitted from around €200,000 in EU funds, further strengthening its capacity to deliver inclusive, high-quality services.
During the visit, the minister met several ESC volunteers who play a key role within Inspire’s services. The volunteers are fully integrated into the organisation’s programmes, working daily alongside educators, therapists and tutors. Their structured responsibilities include preparing and adapting sessions according to individual needs, supporting educational and therapeutic activities, and adhering to professional standards.
Minister Zrinzo Azzopardi said the project clearly demonstrates how EU funds are translating into tangible results that enhance inclusion and social cohesion at community level. He noted that through the European Solidarity Corps, young people from across Europe are given opportunities to actively contribute to services that make a real difference in the lives of children with disabilities and their families.
He added that the involvement of ESC volunteers strengthens the services offered by Inspire while complementing national investment in the sector and reinforcing the European dimension of inclusive services in Malta.
Inspire CEO Antonello Gauci explained that participation in the European Solidarity Corps allows the organisation to maintain high-quality services while creating an environment where volunteers develop professional skills, empathy and a strong sense of civic responsibility, with direct benefits for children, families and professionals involved.
EUPA Malta CEO Raphael Scerri said projects like these show the importance of EU funds when effectively managed and directed towards initiatives that deliver positive and sustainable community impact.
The minister concluded the visit by reaffirming the government’s commitment to continue supporting initiatives that strengthen social inclusion, European cooperation and the strategic use of EU funds for the benefit of the wider community.
Photos: DOI/MFEI
Footage: Ministry video link
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