MEPs discuss EU opportunities with Junior College students
An opportunity for students to engage with their elected representatives, ask questions, and share their views
Maltese Members of the European Parliament Peter Agius and Thomas Bajada met with students and young people to explain their role and to discuss the European Union’s opportunities for youth during an open discussion held at the G.F Abela Junior College on the 30th October.
Organised by the European Parliament Liaison Office (EPLO) in Valletta in collaboration with Aġenzija Żgħażagħ, the event offered participants a direct opportunity to engage with their elected representatives, ask questions, and share their views, concerns, and question the role of the EU and its impact on their lives.
The gathering opened with a video message by the EP President Roberta Metsola who referred to her own experience as an active student and encouraged young people to partake in decision-making around them.
The discussion focused on mobility programmes such as Erasmus+, job and training opportunities for young people across the EU, and the economic and social advantages of the European single market. Both MEPs underlined the importance of youth participation in shaping European policies and encouraged students to make the most of EU programmes that support study, work, and volunteering experiences abroad.
“Youths are among the greatest beneficiaries of what the EU offers — from education and training programmes to the opportunities created by the single market,” said MEP Peter Agius. “But they are also key contributors to Europe’s success. Listening to their ideas helps us make policies that truly reflect their hopes for the future.”
MEP Thomas Bajada highlighted the value of direct engagement between institutions and young citizens: “Events like this remind us that the European project must continue to deliver for people — especially by listening to the younger generation. The EU’s programmes and freedoms can only work if youths feel empowered to take part and to shape Europe’s direction.”
The event also marked the 35th anniversary of Eurodesk, the EU information network hosted in Malta by Aġenzija Żgħażagħ, which provides guidance and advice to young people about opportunities in Europe.
“Events like this help bring the European Parliament closer to young people and show that their voices matter,” said Dr Mario Sammut, Head of the European Parliament Liaison Office in Valletta. “Hearing directly from MEPs helps students understand how EU decisions impact their daily lives and future opportunities.”
More than 80 students and young people took part in the interactive session, engaging actively with questions about Malta’s role in the EU and how Europe can better support young people’s ambitions. Topical issues of particular interest to youths included regulation of digital media and AI, migration, and the environment.
