We are living in a society where environmental awareness is an issue. Yet, what are we doing to take care of our environment, and what will future generations inherit from us?

Based upon these considerations, St Monica School of Gzira recently inaugurated a Maltese Garden, with the aim of raising awareness that the environment must be nurtured and protected.

The Maltese Garden will be used for environmental studies and biology lessons in both primary and secondary, thus serving as a teaching aid.

The Ekoskola committee members put in a lot of effort towards the garden, which will be taken care of by the students.

The garden has different sections, each representing a different Maltese ecosystem. The garigue, maquis, woodland and riparian ecosystems are represented. The garden will be allowed to follow the natural cycle to illustrate seasonal variations of flora and fauna in nature.

An important message that is being put through is that there should be appreciation for all that is Maltese. All species found in this garden are endemic or indigenous. This forms part of our national heritage and our identity as Maltese, and is especially important within today's European context.

The Maltese Garden could not have been implemented without the help of the school PTA, the Gzira local council and Nature Trust. It was inaugurated by Education Minister Louis Galea, Environment Minister George Pullicino, shadow minister for Education Carmelo Abela, Mother Provincial Sr Myriam Grech, officials from the Education Division and other guests, as well as the staff and students. Fr Mark Ciantar blessed the garden.