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Photography by Claire Behan
The Government of Malta has taken a major step towards promoting social inclusion by formally ratifying its commitment Special Olympics Global Alliance for Inclusion During the signing ceremony held in Valletta on September 12. The event was attended by a delegation headed by Special Olympics Europe and Eurasia President David Evangelista And the Honourable Minister of Education and Sports, Dr. Clifton Grima.
Under the leadership of Minister Grima, the Malta Ministry of Education and Sport has pledged nearly €600,000 to support the growth of Special Olympics programmes across the country. The funding will be used to expand Unified Sports, increase the scope of the Motor Activity Training Programme (MATP), and enhance ongoing sports and health initiatives led by Special Olympics Malta.
“Malta’s commitment to inclusion reflects a deep understanding of the power of sport to transform lives,” said Evangelista. “By investing in unified sports and supporting people with intellectual disabilities in schools and across society, Malta is helping to create a more inclusive society, not only within its borders but also as a key EU member state and global leader in this vital movement.”
“The commitment of the Government of Malta, and His Excellency Minister Dr Clifton Grima, along with the generous support of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation, is truly inspiring. Their dedication, together with Special Olympics Malta, to expanding inclusive opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities serves to inspire other countries to follow suit, and expand the reach of this important global alliance for inclusion. We are extremely grateful for their leadership and steadfast support in furthering our mission of inclusion.”
Unified Sports It is one of the most impactful programs offered by Special Olympics, bringing together athletes with and without disabilities. Intellectual disabilities Playing on the same team. This initiative helps break down barriers and foster understanding through shared experiences. Thanks to Malta’s investment, Unified Sports will now be available in more sports clubs and community centres across the country, making it easier for people with intellectual disabilities to participate and join their local sports communities.
In addition, the expansion of Motor activity training program The MATP will provide individuals with severe intellectual disabilities with physical activities specifically designed to suit their abilities. This program is critical in enabling greater participation in sport and improving the quality of life for individuals with more significant support needs.
“Our participation in the Global Alliance for Inclusion is a testament to Malta’s commitment to creating equal opportunities for all. We believe that sport has the power to bridge gaps, and by investing in Special Olympics programmes, we are not only enriching the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities, but also strengthening our communities as a whole.”
Dr. Clifton Grima
“We are laying the foundation for a future where every individual, regardless of ability, can fully participate in society. This is not just about sport; it is about creating a world that values and embraces everyone.”
Malta’s participation in the Alliance highlights the crucial role that governments play in driving inclusive development. As a founding member, Malta sets an example for Member States across the EU and beyond, demonstrating that meaningful inclusion requires cross-sectoral collaboration and sustained commitment of funding and support.
By joining the Global Alliance for Inclusion, Malta will provide support at the national level while simultaneously building strong momentum at the international level. This effort will continue to open doors for individuals with intellectual disabilities, ensuring that they have the same opportunities to succeed in sports, education, health and more.
Launched in June 2023 during the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin, the Global Alliance for Inclusion encourages governments to provide domestic funding for inclusive development programs. The alliance brings together governments, industry leaders, philanthropists and the development community to expand inclusive opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities.
Alliance members have committed to expanding inclusive sports and education opportunities to more than 2 million youth in more than 150,000 schools and expanding Special Olympics programming to 180 countries.
The government coalition includes the following countries: Angola, China, Egypt, Ghana, Gibraltar, Iceland, Jamaica, Kenya, Kosovo, Malta, Mongolia, Montenegro, Panama, Paraguay, Seychelles, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates.
The alliance, made possible by a generous grant from Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF), leads a public-private partnership model that also engages UN agencies, development aid agencies, global philanthropic leaders, corporate leaders and others.
More information can be found at the Global Leadership Alliance for Inclusion. It can be found here.
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