Students reflect on European values in EPAS 10-year anniversary photo competition

The winning student is Sophie Ditzel Pritsker from St Martin's College

Person standing in Valletta holding a red umbrella

To mark the 10th anniversary of the European Parliament Ambassador School (EPAS) Programme, the European Parliament Liaison Office in Malta organised a national photo competition inviting students to answer a simple but powerful question: “What does Europe mean to you?”

Through photography and short captions, students were encouraged to express their views on European values, identity and cooperation. The initiative celebrated a decade of EPAS activities in Malta while reinforcing the programme’s aim of encouraging young people to become informed, active and engaged citizens.

Strong participation from EPAS schools

The competition attracted 24 submissions from EPAS schools across Malta, all of which met the eligibility requirements. Participating schools included De La Salle College, Junior College, Maria Regina College – Lily of the Valley, St Augustine College, St Clare College Sir Adrian Dingli, St Dorothy’s Senior School, St Joseph Senior School, St Martin’s College and St Ignatius College.

Students explored themes such as European identity, cultural diversity, sustainability and solidarity, highlighting how young people perceive Europe and their role within it.

Winning teams

Following the evaluation process carried out by a jury, the competition winners were announced:

  • 1st Place – St Martin’s College
  • 2nd Place – Junior College
  • 3rd Place – Junior College

 
Opportunity to represent Malta in Brussels

As recognition for their winning entry, students from St Martin’s College will represent EPAS Malta at the EPAS 10-Year Anniversary Youth Seminar taking place at the European Parliament in Brussels the 18 March. The Maltese delegation will include the winning student, an accompanying educator and two additional students from the school.

During the seminar, participants will meet peers from across Europe, take part in workshops and visit the European Parliament. The winning Maltese photograph will also be printed and exhibited together with other selected photographs from EU Member States and the United Kingdom at the European Parliament Info Hub.

Celebrating a decade of EPAS in Malta

The competition formed part of the celebrations marking ten years of the EPAS programme, which continues to play an important role in promoting democratic participation and strengthening young people’s understanding of the European Union. Through initiatives like this, students are encouraged to reflect on shared European values and engage actively in shaping Europe’s future.