Description of the Training Content:

Preparation:

Malta is so rich in flora and fauna that it has been rightly defined a botanical paradise. This natural heritage must not only be cherished but protected for future generations to enjoy. Participants should prepare for this course by doing some reading or internet research on the Maltese Islands. Prior to arrival, we will provide participants with the programme and a list of suggested reading material and research sites.

Objectives:

The course has been organized so as to illustrate the beauty and variety of nature and to recognize the uniqueness and importance of our natural heritage. It is intended for nature lovers and should be of great interest to participants eager to gain knowledge of the plant world, wildlife, landscape and nature’s natural heritage. The lectures and country walks envisaged impart a deeper understanding of the Maltese “widien” valleys, plants and animals, wayside chapels and increase one’s awareness and appreciation of these beautiful resources.

Methodology:

The course will consist of a series of lectures with site-visits to complement the topics of the day. Highly qualified lecturers ensure a simple approach of the highest levels of learning. Handouts / Notes will be given to participants prior to site visits. There will be ample time for discussion on the topics both in the lecture room and on site. At the end of the course there will be a full discussion and an evaluation session so that participants can report their opinion on the quality of the training. This will be followed by the presentation of Certificates to the participants.

Follow-up

The organizers will keep close contact with all the participants either via email or communication in order to be able to answer queries about particular issues related raised in the course. We will also be available to help course participants in drawing up further courses/modules about the folklore and traditions.

Day by Day programme:

Day 1: Introductory Meeting; Registration of Participants; Welcome drink and Dinner.

Day 2: Lecture 1: Flora & Fauna of the Mediterranean Region; Coffee Break; Lecture 2: Bees & Honey; Lunch; Site Visits: Mellieha walk around St. Agata’s Tower - Xemxija Roman Beehives; Discussion; Dinner.

Day 3: Lecture 3: Hamlets & Villages; Coffee Break; Lecture 4: Wayside Chapels & Corbelled Huts; Lunch; Site Visits: Wied Speranza – Bingemma Walk – Victoria Lines; Discussion; Dinner.

Day 4: Lecture 5: Olive Pressing in the Mediterranean Region; Coffee Break; Lecture 6: Trees of the Mediterranean; Lunch; Site Visits: Wardija Olive Pressing – Buskett – Dingli; Discussion; Dinner.

Day 5: Lecture 7: Geological Formation of the Maltese Islands; Coffee Break ; Lunch; Site Visits: Siggiewi Limestone Heritage; Natural History Museum; San Anton Gardens; Discussion; Dinner.

Day 6: Ferry to Gozo; Lecture 8: The Costal Marine Environment; Coffee break; Lecture 9: Dwejra Costal Heritage Park; Lunch; Site Visits: Dwejra – Wied Nunziata; Discussion and Evaluation Session; Farewell Dinner; Presentation of certificates

Day 7: Departure