KSU, Sixth Form students propose introduction of civic studies for Vote-16 to succeed

KSU, Sixth Form students propose introduction of civic studies for Vote-16 to succeed

The University Student Council (KSU) together with sixth form student councils have called on the introduction of civic studies in secondary schools to back up providing 16-year-olds the right to vote with an educational framework.

KSU president Robert Napier remarked how simply reducing the voting age from 18 to 16 without providing 16-year-olds the right tools to make an informed and mature decision would not reap the intended benefits behind the legislative change.

He drew a comparison with Austria, which is the first country to give 16-year-olds the right to vote. In Austria, students have been receiving civic education for the past thirty years.

Civic education deals with critical thinking, the rights and obligations of voters, current affairs, debating of issues and how to make an informed decision.

KSU representative Gabriella Sutton described the lack of civic education in Malta as "alarming". She presented the inter-student position paper recommendations and explained that the course of action is to be based on three angles: formal education, non-formal education and informal education.

Formal education deals with introducing elements of critical thinking and current affairs in the classroom of various subjects. Current affairs, how to deliver and receive constructive criticism and the duties of voters should be introduced in all Personal Social Development (PSD), Ethics and Social Studies Classrooms.

The non-formal angle would include collaboration between NGOs and student organizations to organize debates and competitions encouraging youths to take part.

Informal education would take the form of cultural events organized by youth centers aimed at engaging the youth.

Parliamentary Secretary Aaron Farrugia was present for the press conference and was also invited to speak. He remarked that he is among the youngest members of parliaments, and expressed his support for the recommendations put forward.

Farrugia said that inter-ministerial discussions have already been taking place on the subject of introducing civic studies.

This article will be updated shortly.

from The Malta Independent http://ift.tt/2Fz3eoK
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