PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, ENERGY AND PUBLIC CLEANLINESS Ir-Razzett tat-Tfal: New educational centre to promote sustainability at Romeo Romano Gardens

A historic building that had been abandoned in Ġnien Romeo Romano in Santa Venera has now been transformed into a modern educational facility for EkoSkola students and others, to help them learn more about sustainability.

Named “Ir-Razzett tat-Tfal”, this building will serve as an educational centre focused on the environment and sustainable development, operated by Nature Trust Malta.

During the inauguration of this centre, the Minister for the Environment, Energy and Public Cleanliness Miriam Dalli highlighted the importance of this initiative in shaping future generations. “This was one of the first decisions I took, to collaborate with EkoSkola to transform this farm into an educational centre for all children. Through the restoration of this historic building into an educational centre, we are creating a space where students of all ages can learn more about sustainability and the importance of caring for our environment. Students will have the opportunity to take part in hands-on activities to deepen their understanding of the natural environment, sustainable practices, and waste reduction,” said Minister Dalli, who also positively emphasised that the centre has dedicated facilities for children with autism.

The Chief Executive Officer of WasteServ, Richard Bilocca, added that the inauguration of Ir-Razzett tat-Tfal marks a significant step forward in WasteServ’s commitment to sustainability and the preservation of cultural heritage. “This restoration project, together with other greening projects we have completed and those we are working on, is another way in which we are creating a better future for both the environment and our communities. This project is particularly close to my heart because it is directly aimed at children,” said CEO Richard Bilocca.

Nature Trust Malta President Vincent Attard welcomed the opening of this new educational hub. “Nature Trust, together with EkoSkola, will be using this space for activities related to EkoSkola, particularly in connection with the seven steps of the programme, while the community and people living in the vicinity will also benefit from this facility,” said Mr Attard. 

So far, the second phase of this ambitious restoration project has been successfully completed, bringing new life into this historic building and its surrounding garden. The centre includes multi-functional rooms, breakout rooms, an administration office, informal spaces, as well as areas designed to meet the diverse needs of children. Visitors can also view restored historical agricultural tools and artefacts on display, offering insight into the building’s past.

The restoration works included structural and architectural repairs to masonry walls, timber beams, apertures, and floors, as well as the conservation of vernacular features that reflect Malta’s rich heritage. Structural interventions were carried out with great sensitivity, integrating old and new elements to preserve the site's cultural significance.