The Insiter, December 2010

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Editor:

AnnaMaria Zammit Editorial Board:

Claire Bonello Kristina Cassar Noel Camilleri Proof-readers:

Claire Bonello Franco rizzo Head of Design:

Theo Cachia Layout and Production:

Isabel Micallef Illustrators:

Kurt sammut alessi, romina tolu Head of Photography:

Glorianne Cassar Photographers:

patrick genovese, jacob sammut carabez (pearl works), malcolm sammut, romina tolu, Rachelle Zammit Mamo Media Officer:

Christine Spiteri Sales and Marketing:

Anton Abela Maria anthea attard Contributors:

Anna Abela, chris bergedahl, neville bezzina, claire bonello, malcolm borg, matthew bugeja, isabelle camilleri, noel camilleri, christine caruana, joseph caruana, christabel catania, darren chetcuti vella, tamara chetcuti, abigail cremona, david debono, john farrugia, tamara fenech, andrew galea, emma gauci, lou ghirlando, emma grech, claire grima, emma la ferla, mark mallia, roberta rizzo, andrew sciberras, natasha thea singh, the nitpicker.

editorial : How do you measure a year?

Every year, the European Commission designates a ‘European Year’ dedicated to raising awareness about a particular social issue. 2010 was declared the ‘European Year for Combating Poverty and Social Exclusion’, bringing marginalised groups and disadvantaged communities to the fore, and asserting their members’ right to live in dignity and participate fully in society.

While raising awareness is the first step towards fostering tolerance, it is not enough. One of the Commission’s objectives this year was emphasizing everyone’s responsibility to tackle poverty and marginalisation. Important changes are effected by persons making a long-term effort which leads to real progress. At the University of Malta, many students have taken such initiatives.

During an activity related to One World (October 2010), Fr Michael Bugeja, the University Chaplain, said that student volunteering has been promoted for the past 24 years. Did you know that each semester between 60 and 80 students apply to become volunteers in an institution in Malta through Degree Plus. Have you heard of ‘Get Up Stand Up!’? This voluntary organisation was set up late in 2009 by a group of Maltese students committed to promoting love and friendship among all people. Its concern is with human rights issues related to racism, homophobia, and poverty.

At the start of this academic year, a team of driven individuals resurrected the University lgbt Society (now called ‘We Are’). Its purpose remains the same as when it was originally founded: to bring the lgbt students and staff together, to facilitate socialisation, and to promote awareness and tolerance and fight homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia on campus.

These are but a few of the shining examples of students who tirelessly invest their time and youthful energies in contributing to a cohesive society and improving it for present and future generations. As this ‘European Year’ draws to a close, their unwavering enthusiasm and dedication towards eradicating poverty and discrimination bring hope, and should encourage others to offer the gift of understanding all year through. Next year, 2011, is the European Year of Volunteering.

Special thanks:

David Schembri Cover design:

Glorianne Cassar, theo cachia janice, nadine & maria (models) © 2010 Insite – The Student Media Organisation.

All rights reserved.

CONTENTS

04 The Insiter’s News roundup, including stories on Thefts at the University Library, ksu’s Erasmus Report & Careers Convention 2010

08 09 10 12

20 21 22 23

24 26 29 30

NEWS

the

is published eight times a year by insite – the student media organisation and is distributed for free on campus.

move survey lgbt society

budget 2011 what's on?

CORRESPONDENCE:

Insite – The student media organisation, university of malta, msida, msd 2080 sales & advertising:

sales@insite.org.mt Email:

print@insite.org.mt

letter to the editor neville bezzina chris bergedahl matthew bugeja

VOX POP fashion shoot: earth environment fair trade our university

14

16 17 18 19

IC Media Weekend: Natasha Thea Singh talks about Insite’s IC Weekend where 130 attendees gained valuable hands-on experience working with media professionals.

32

31 34 36 37

history repeats itself Tamara Fenech shares her experience at the second Malta Comic Convention organised by Wicked Comics Malta.

student orgs. elsa Law review

The CLAIRE CHRONICLES the nitpicker

every breath we take funk initiative 'bariona' a christmas play “QUOTE/UNQUOTE” & when magic comes to life

WEBSITE:

INSITERONLINE.com

42

Promises of yesteryear Darren Chetcuti Vella analyses Ksu's performance over the current Executive Board's first six months in office.

40 41 44

book reviews erasmus diary ‘moving up the ladder’

46

the best 4x4xfar Mark Mallia overviews the second oldest four wheel drive brand in the world.

insiteronline.com

03

UoM graduation ceremonies 2010 O

n November 16, the first of the two University of Malta Graduation 2010 masses took place at St John’s CoCathedral, for the Faculties of Arts, Education, Engineering, Laws, Science, Theology, Information and Communication Technology, and Centre for Communication Technology. On November 17, mass was held for graduands of the Faculties of Built Environment, Dental Surgery, Economics, Management and Accountancy, Medicine and Surgery, Health Sciences, and all other Institutes and Centres.

A total of 2737 University of Malta students are graduating this year during ceremonies which started on November

18 at the Jesuit Church in Valletta. Ceremonies for postgraduates were held in Valletta up to November 25, while graduation ceremonies at Sir Temi Zammit Hall, Msida Campus, began on November 29 and will go on until December 6.

1658 of this year’s graduands are female and 1079 are male. These include a total of 124 students from overseas: 69 females and 55 males. The largest number of graduands, 515, comes from the Faculty of Economics, Management and Accountancy, followed by 397 from the Faculty of Education, and 356 from the Faculty of Laws.

emma la ferla

THefts at UoM LIBRary

S

ecurity at the University of Malta was placed in the limelight earlier this month, after The Times of Malta reported that a 23-year-old hotel employee from Balzan had been found guilty of stealing money, along with other items, from handbags located in the depository compartments at the University library. The offender received a six-month prison sentence suspended for three years, after pleading guilty to the theft of close to €400 in cash, together with other belongings.

A study entitled ‘Crime on Campus: A Myth or a Reality?’ carried out in 2010 by the Criminology Students’ Society, Għ.S.K. (Għaqda Student tal-Kriminologija) confirms that despite the lack of research conducted at the uom regarding crime on campus, it is nevertheless a serious issue which needs to be addressed. Research shows that almost 70% of University students who participated in the study believe crime on campus to be a reality. Indeed, theft occupies first place among the top five crimes that take place most frequently on campus, followed by vandalism, arson, and car theft.

According to the report, the two principal areas at University susceptible to theft are the car park, in particular the Gateway car park, and the library. Students have expressed concern about the lack of security officers and cctv cameras present on campus. Unfortunately, due to this lack of security, together with insufficient awareness of crime on campus, an attitude of indifference has developed among students,

04

The Insiter • December 2010

thus resulting in a number of crimes being left unreported.

When compared to overseas universities, the Maltese campus is considered to be relatively safe, with 51% of participants in the aforementioned study confirming this statement. Despite this, 49% pointed out the fact that anyone can enter the University grounds, thus rendering them potentially unsafe. Suggestions have been put forward proposing identity checks at the University entrances, yet this would be close to impossible, considering the multitude of people that come through the University gate on a daily basis. Alternatively, more cctv cameras could be installed, particularly in the car parks, along with the recruitment of additional security staff. għsk believes that employing properly trained staff could lead to an effective security plan. When questioned about the recent library incident, many were those who suggested the need for more lockers at the library as opposed to ‘pigeon holes’.

On behalf of the student organisation, the president of għsk, Ms Abigail Cremona, expressed gratitude towards those involved in successfully bringing the series of thefts at the uom library to a close. Furthermore, Għ.S.K. has deemed it necessary to encourage students to take precautions in order to reduce crime. Simple alterations to our daily routines have been proposed, such as not leaving valuable belongings in the pigeon holes and watching over these belongings at all times.

news

noel camilleri

university students’ council

Issues ERASMUS REPORT

K

su has published a report that assesses the current situation of the Erasmus programme. The report, accessible from ksu’s official portal (ksu.org.mt), contains an investigation of various aspects related to the Erasmus experience of Maltese students.

This report will guide ksu in its efforts to improve the administrative and academic aspects of this programme, while also increasing the number of bi-lateral agreements per faculty and grants given. When contacted, Larkin Zahra, ksu’s International Officer, said that ksu will also be organising Erasmus Information Days, both at the University and the Junior College to increase awareness about this programme.

Asked to comment about the EU suspension of Erasmus funds earlier this year, Zahra commented that ksu has followed up this issue. He mentioned how ksu president Carl Grech has met Helene Clarke, the Director of the Life-long learning programme at the European Commission, to relay Maltese students’ concerns as the temporary €300 government grant given to students for a maximum of four months was only a temporary solution. Zahra confirmed that the final decision about the re-instatement of funds depended on the result of the audit visit carried out by the Commission at the end of October.

Related to this, Nationalist mep Simon Busuttil has submitted a parliamentary question to the European Commission in order for the latter to determine “the state of its evaluation on the basis of assurances received from the Maltese Government”, and whether there is “a target date towards which the European Commission and the National Agency are working for the full reactivation of these programmes.”

Meanwhile, ksu’s International Officer confirmed with The Insiter that “ksu is in contact with the relevant authorities in order to set up an Interest Free Loan Scheme for outgoing students on an Erasmus Exchange Program”, which would make it more accessible for Maltese students to venture abroad.

Affected students who contacted The Insiter complained about the delays they faced in obtaining the necessary funding, though many said that ksu kept them informed through several email updates which were sent to them. They also welcomed the fact that ksu had drawn up a questionnaire to gauge the perceptions of this programme among students.

EX-U oM Student celebrates Literary success L

ast March, 25-year-old René Cilia, ex-mksu President, received the Award for the Most Outstanding Young Author in the Literature for Young Adults Competition, which was organised by the National Book Council and the Parliamentary Secretariat for Youth and Sport. ‘Klabb Kotba Maltin’ is now publishing his first book, “Is-Saltna tal-Ħamsin”, and a website is being launched to promote it.

“Is-Saltna tal-Ħamsin” is a fantasy novel. René, who is in his final year of formation to the priesthood, and was ordained a deacon in October, said, “I’m awestruck by the fact that what was a manuscript will soon hit the bookshelves. The website adds to the wonderment that this experience is proving to be”.

Although intended as a book for young adults, older readers will also find it to be an enjoyable read. When asked about how he thinks the book will be received, the author enthusiastically replied, “I only hope that they [people] will enjoy reading it as much as writing it has been thrilling for me”.

The website can be found on www.is-saltnatal-hamsin.com. For more information, please send an email to is.saltna.tal.hamsin@gmail.com.

insiteronline.com

05

natasha thea singh

careers convention 2010 O

n November 15, at 9am, the Careers Convention was launched at the quadrangle of the University of Malta.

The Parliamentary Secretary for Revenues and Land, Jason Azzopardi, went around the stands greeting the representatives of the participating companies. He then proceeded to give a brief speech about the Convention. ksu President Carl Grech added a few words of his own, and the Convention was officially launched.

The Careers Convention is an annual event that is organised by ksu and the student organisation aiesec. Its main agenda is to offer opportunities for students to be recruited into corporations relevant to their course of studies and desired careers. Although the majority of firms present this year were audit firms, there were also opportunities for persons interested in communications, engineering, scientific, and legal careers. This year’s Convention featured recycled promotional material, such as recycled green pencils and a magazine printed on recycled paper.

The Minister commented that he believes that the Ca-

reers Convention is a “win-win situation”, as both students and firms benefit from this event. Carl Grech told The Insiter that he hoped the rest of the Convention would go as planned, and that the weather would continue to be pleasant. When asked if he believed that the Convention is truly beneficial to students, he replied; “Nispera li s-studenti jippartecipaw fiha” (“I hope that the students participate in it”). Nicole Farrugia, president of aiesec, and Matthew Bonett, the Social Policy Coordinator for ksu, both contributed largely to the organisation and coordination of the entire event, and were also the editors of the magazine produced for the occasion.

They both commented that they were “really excited” and felt proud to have been part of such an event.

The Careers Convention also presents opportunities for students to attend meetings regarding working in the European Union which are held by the European Employment Services, as well as talks presented by the Faculty of Health Sciences, Enemalta, EF Language Travel, and several others.

noel Camilleri

KSU targets participation rate in senate and student rep elections I

n an effort to revive interest in the student representative elections, which this year were held on the 22nd November, ksu embarked on a campaign to increase the level of participation both in the number of nominations and in actual voting. Commenting to ‘The Insiter’, ksu Education Co-ordinator Roberta Rizzo said that although these elections are the responsibility of the University administration, “ksu’s aim was to increase knowledge about these elections and their importance.” In fact, she pointed out how in an effort to increase participation, ksu convinced the Office of the Registrar to extend voting till 6pm, to give part-time evening students an opportunity to vote.

Headlined by the slogan, “Don’t let anyone decide for you, go vote!”, the campaign enticed nominations for four different elections. All University students were called to vote for two vacant Senate seats from four nominations, while students from the Faculty of Economics, Management and Accountancy (fema), the Faculty of ict, and the Institute for Sustainable Energy were called to vote for their student representatives on the various faculty and institute boards.

06

The Insiter • December 2010

Meanwhile, no nominations were received from students of the Institute of Earth Systems, International Institute of Baroque Studies, Institute of Linguistics, Mediterranean Institute, and Institute for Tourism, Travel and Culture. A University spokesperson confirmed that in such cases, the posts remain vacant and nominations for them are issued again when the next round of elections is held. Elections were also not held for student posts on the boards of the Faculty of Education, Faculty of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, and the Centre for Labour Studies, as the number of nominations matched the number of vacant positions.

Roberta Rizzo also confirmed that ksu would be focusing on the remaining vacant seats, “to ensure that they will be filled in the next election,” which is scheduled to take place in April 2011.

Note: Until we went to print, ‘The Insiter’ was not able to get hold of the official results and voter turnout figures.

However, it has been confirmed that ksu Executive Board members James Cassar and Angelo Micallef have been elected onto Senate.

Youth Prize T

he European Parliament and the Foundation of the International Charlemagne Prize are seeking projects that foster a shared sense of European identity and cooperation.

Participants must be between sixteen and thirty years old, and the project in question should be aimed at encouraging a better understanding between Europeans.

Entries for the 2011 prize may focus on the organisation of youth events, youth exchanges, or internet projects with a European dimension. The deadline for submission of applications is January 23, 2011.

At the beginning of March 2011, the national winners will be selected. A jury will then examine the 27 national winners

news

European

2011

and select the overall first, second, and third prize winners.

The national winners will be invited to the award ceremony in Aachen, Germany, on May 31, 2011. The awards will be presented by the President of the European Parliament and representatives of the Foundation of the International Charlemagne Prize.

In 2010, the first prize of €5000 was awarded to the German project – ‘European cnc Network: Train for Europe’ – which brought together 24 vocational schools to build a small-gauge locomotive and wagons.

roberta rizzo

my favourite professor 2011

T

he University of Malta is a centre of high academic standards. This reputation has been built up over a number of years. The main building blocks of such a reputation lie in the foundations of its teaching: the lecturers.

There are lecturers at the University of Malta who have a passion not only for their subject, but also for teaching and sharing their knowledge with others. These lecturers are clearly distinguishable by their full classrooms, attentive students, active discussions, and ease of communication. The success of these lecturers is observed in the development of capacities and understanding on the part of their students.

After graduation, it is these lecturers who are remembered, and the knowledge they passed on that is cherished.

A student will always remember the time he was invited to challenge the lecturer in an interactive environment. A student will always remember the lecturer who encouraged discussion. A student will never forget a friendly atmosphere where feedback was welcome. Most of all , a student will never forget that one particular lecturer who not only prepared him for an examination at the end of the term but, more importantly, encouraged moral and intellectual growth which facilitated integration into society and the labour market.

‘My Favourite Professor’ is an initiative by ksu that seeks to commend these lecturers. We wish to applaud and award

genuinely hard-working professors. Apart from commending the lecturers, we also wish to promote their innovative ideas for good teaching practices. This project should encourage students to think positively and discuss together the way they enjoy being taught.

Students will be asked to share memorable experiences of lectures and lecturers. This first step involves collecting examples of the qualities that students identify in good lecturers. Once established, these will then be discussed in various workshops. An emphasis will be placed on the qualities defined by the Bologna process.

Finally, these qualities will be compiled in a report which will be available to the University. This report will be the basis of a criteria system used to choose those most deserving of the title ‘My Favourite Professor’. Students will be given a time frame in which to nominate their favourite lecturer, and a Board will then decide who qualifies for the title according to the aforementioned report. The Board will attend lectures given by the lecturer, interview other students about their learning experience, as well as interview the lecturer himself or herself.

insiteronline.com

07

hiding in christabel catania

neverland debate organised by MOVE the progressive students’ association

O

n November 3, the University quadrangle served as a debate arena for what proved to be a (mostly) mature debate about divorce organised by the student organisation move, the progressive students’ association.

We’ve all been mulling over divorce issues for a few months now, and as time passes the issue becomes all the more convoluted. Some fear that this is a tactic aimed at letting the issue “die out”. move, however, is one of the entities determined not to let the issue die out and placed divorce on its agenda since its inception.

Last year, move conducted a survey concerning issues close to the heart of Maltese University students. 606 students completed the survey, which revealed that 54.4% of University students are in favour of divorce, compared to the 32.4% who do not agree with the introduction of divorce in Malta. The remaining 13.2 % remain indecisive. The survey also delved into issues such as same-sex marriages, euthanasia, religion, and the relevance of he current education system in Malta. The results can be found on www.profilingmalta.com.

Kevin Mercieca moderated a debate between MPs Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando and Owen Bonnici, and family lawyer Dr Sharon Mizzi, social worker Maria Caruana, and fourth year law student Marlon Borg.

Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando commented that the introduction of divorce will only introduce legal paramters within which to regulate a situation which is currently chaotic. The entire panel concurred. He described the divorce issue as a “Maltese kangaroo”, explaining that it is complete nonsense to consider co-habitation or annulment as realistic alternatives to divorce. He commented that, as always, a number of Maltese people are creating a creature that will isolate them from the rest of the world. Not allowing divorce does not show that we uphold family values any more than other countries where it is permitted.

It is estimated that by 2015 there will be 35 000 individuals in Malta who are directly affected by separation, annulment, or divorce obtained from abroad. Dr Pullicino Orlando said that these statistics show how we are facing a chaotic situation. Law student Marlon Borg rightly commented that a discussion on family divorce law has been proceeding even though there is no family law in the Maltese Constitution.

He proposed that it is high time that this was introduced.

08

The Insiter • December 2010

Sharon Mizzi highlighted the fact that divorce is currently available to those having the financial resources to change residency to another European Union country for six months. She commented that no one has the right to impose his views on other human beings, and divorce is a choice which must be made available. Whether to opt for divorce or not is then up to the individual.

Maria Caruana brought the attention back to the affect family rows have on children. Children want to live in a stable environment, and it doesn’t matter if it’s in the first or the second family. When questioned on the stigma of enlarged families, Ms Caruana said that we should all remember who we are and not be affected by others’ opinion of us.

Unfortunately, the otherwise mature debate concluded with some irked audience members shouting out remarks and claiming that divorce is morally reprehensible. While everyone prefers the fairytale family, we have to keep in mind that sometimes bad circumstances happen to good people, and that everyone should be granted a second chance.

news david debono

we are – The University

of Malta LGBT Society

exciting activities was planned for the year ahead. In short, lgbtq people on university were given a brand new, fresh, and - dare I say it - fabulous face to represent them.

Their aims are to represent their members and to provide an environment where people identifying as lgbtq, or straight people who want to show support for their friends, can interact in a safe, fun, and friendly environment. They also strive to promote awareness and tolerance, as well as to fight homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia on campus.

They want to serve as an information centre, for straight people with questions on lgbtq topics, as well as a support centre for those in the process of coming out (or those with family members who are coming out and who don’t know how to deal with it). And of course, there is the fun factor: as many activities as possible are organised for the members to meet up and have a gay ol’ time (please excuse the pun).

What do they want? Members! When do they want them? Now! By signing up to be part of this new initiative you will be added to their mailing list, which will give you the opportunity to be one of the first people to learn about all their exciting upcoming activities. You also have the option of being more active and lending the Executive a helping hand, or hanging around on the sidelines and just turning up for the parties.

Anyone interested in joining ‘We Are’ is encouraged to send an email to the Executive on weareuom@gmail.com, or to visit their website at www.weareuom.blogspot.com for more information. illustration romina tolu

They say one in ten people is born gay. But then again, they also say that 74.37% of statistics are made up on the spot.

The truth is that there are people out there who identify as part of the lgbtq (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning) community. There is a surprisingly large number of people in Malta who identify as part of this community, considering our small population. Whether these people are ready to accept who they are is another matter altogether.

Support groups are set up to help with this. ‘We Are’ is attempting to achieve this, but on a smaller university-sized scale rather than a nation-wide scale.

Originally set up in 2006, by a couple of bright, driven individuals with a purpose, the University lgbt Society (ulbgts) strove to “bring the lgbt students and staff together”, “to facilitate socialization and friendships”, and to “cater for those who are openly gay and for those in the process of coming out”, as well as to represent anyone who does not fall under the so-called “normal” categories of sexual orientation.

Following two successful years, the group fell into dormancy in 2008, owing to most of its members graduating to (hopefully) fantastic careers, leaving their university life behind.

Fast forward by two years to 2010. A group of people with far too much free time on their hands has decided to resurrect this group from its ashes. How are they doing this? In the best way gay people know how: with the use of makeovers and facelifts. ulgbts was rebranded as ‘We Are’, doing away with the old style of abbreviated naming to give it more fluidity. A new Executive Board was elected towards the end of November. A new logo was created. A whole plethora of

insiteronline.com

09

emma grech

budgeting our education Education is the strongest economic policy, the strongest social policy, and the strongest environmental policy, which a country can embrace. Education is the guarantee of our country’s success.

T

he words uttered by the Minister of Finance during this year’s Budget are indeed an encapsulation of the truth. It is no secret that the molding of a successful and economically formidable nation derives from a stalwart foundation of education that shall, before everything else, be attributed to the younger generations.

The Ideal We university students form part of these younger generations, and I daresay that now is the time to get savvy on what has been proposed in this year’s budget regarding the notion of education.

We tend to look upon the Budget morosely, thinking that perhaps we have better things to do than observe a sombre man chatter away robotically on national television and promise things that belong to never-ever land.

The Real I must be honest and say that I have never actally sat down in front of a television, popcorn in hand, excited look upon my face, awaiting the electrifying political finale they call ‘The Budget’. I tend to belong to those masses that look upon the Budget very, very morosely.

What a load of boringness.

On another note, Malta is politically divided into two factions. This is no news. Its uncannily equal division never ceases to stimulate an ongoing debate between those whose hearts lie with the Reds and those whose loyalties pertain to the Blues. If the latter propose new and interesting ideas, the former shall term them ill-begotten. Let us not forget that the precise inverse shall ensue when the former propose these new and interesting ideas.

The Real and the Ideal Despite all these proposals, a few of which shall follow hereafter, I have come to the following conclusion This year’s Budget, like every year’s Budget, is looked upon in one of the following ways: A. Reality: The proposals and initiatives taken portray

10

The Insiter • December 2010

– Hon. Tonio Fenech Minister of Finance, the Economy and Investment

a deeply rooted dedication to us citizens, and bear a resemblance to the possibilities that may occur when considering reality, and not fantasy. John Citizen shall or may soon benefit.

B. Fantasy: The proposals and initiatives taken portray a whimsical and fairytale landscape, and a fervent dedication to us citizens that may cause brain damage to onlookers when considering the amount of capital that is to be forked out and worked upon.

The Proposals “We must do more. No matter how much we do in this sector it is never enough.

The investment we are proposing in education next year is of 330.1 million euro”.

Forget inflation, global changes, and shifts in the economy. When compared to the measly 23 million euro invested in the education sector last year, 330.1 million euro is a sure sign of positivity and ingenuity.

Advanced and Higher Education 23,597 is the total amount of students attending University, Junior College, ITS, and the Higher Secondary School.

When you consider that the entire population of Malta is approximately 400,000 souls, 23,597 is quite a substantial figure. To think that the taxpayer sustains this figure is breathtaking.

“Next year, we shall increase the allocation for University by 3.5 million euro, aiming to sustain last year’s expansion of the University”.

The Minister of Finance purported that the government believes that the sector involving Tertiary education requires more investment. This is good news. Of course the finances need to be properly evaluated, but pumping more money into education is never a wrong step to take.

Furthermore, the bands of students who receive a stipend have increased. Many students, however, take advan-

The Creative Economy All work and no play renders one dull and lifeless. The enriched graduate has experienced a smidgen of everything: school, drama, art, sport, culture, science, and the like. The 2011 Budget has also addressed these issues. An investment is geared towards the development of a National Centre for Interactive Science, in Villa Bighi, Kalkara. With regard to sport, a proposed agreement is in progress with the institutions for tertiary education, aimed at aiding student athletes in balancing their lifestyles both as students and as athletes.

An interesting point is the re-introduction of the scheme of a 15.25% refund on the price of bicycles up to a maximum of 150 euro! Perhaps we could cycle to university rather than allow our cars to produce such toxic emissions whilst searching for that blessed parking space at five minutes to eight in the morning.

Conclusion The question to be posited is this: is the Budget merely an opportunity for the government to promise further wonders that will secure its place on top? Is the bi-party system exuding its true potential in the proper organisation of a properly demo-liberal state? What of the 330.1 million that is set to be geared towards our education? Unfortunately, this is up to the sands of time, and all we can do is wait for them to trickle down.

news ANALYSIS

tage of the stipend. The motivating factor for many students to continue studying is, in fact, a monthly earning of approximately 80 euro, and a yearly lump sum of approximately 500 euro, depending on the course chosen.

Although I believe that the stipends system needs some reworking, I would like to mention the notion of a free university.

What of student loans, fund-raisers, and extra jobs?

What of the stories we hear in movies where a young married couple start thinking of how they are going to provide for their child’s college education before the child is even born? We don’t know much about these hardships because our university is awaiting us with open arms the moment we obtain the relevant grades and requirements.

The Times of Malta of November 11 bore a front page photo illustrating a riot in progress. A student protest march was held in London on November 10 against the raising of tuition fees by UK universities.

Although a privatized form of tertiary education would seem enticing to the few who could actually afford it, it is not desirable to be deprived of the opportunity to further one’s studies simply because one cannot afford it (because there exists no form of free university).

What a sad situation that would be.

the 1.does budget

interest you?

2.all talk

the budget:

no action?

anthea turner LL .B. II

1. “As a citizen I’m interested and I like to know which areas are considered as worth investing in by the government. However, due to this event’s reduction to party politics, I sometimes wonder if it’s worth any attention.”

2. “Because of the above, I do agree with the statement ‘all words and no actions’.’The budget’ has merely become another opportunity for the two parties to attack each other, forgetting that the interests of the people are at stake.”

martha micallef B.ED II

1. “It interests me because things like taxes and increases in prices affect everyone in some way or another”.

2. “Initiatives are always a start, but they need to be down-to-earth and aimed at everyone. All words and no actions is a sure possibility”.

ramon bonett-sladden LL .D. II

1. “The budget interests me, but lately issues of national importance are being reduced to political tiffs, and discussion is replaced with political skullduggery”.

2. “Well, the government is as overly optimistic as much as the opposition predicts nothing but doom! It remains to be seen whether or not the budget will be properly implemented for the benefit of the country.”

insiteronline.com

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DECEMBER 2010

EVEN

TS

thursday 2ND

monday 6th – friday 10th

għsl Unwanted sex... the truth about rape

greenhouse every human has rights week On Campus

12.00pm – 2.00pm, Ksu Common Room friday 3rd EQUINOX TRIO “COWELL TO CAGE” – CONTEMPORARY AMERICAN MUSIC 8.00pm, Music Room, St. James Cavalier, Valletta

Ncpe introduction to Ncpe & Screening of the voice for all 10.00am – 12.00pm, Ksu Common Room MIGRANT SOCIETY MOVEMENT unframing MIGRANTS EXHIBITION University Library

friday 3rd – sunday 5th theatrencore bariona 8.00pm, St James Cavalier, Valletta

tuesday 7th

friday 3rd – sunday 5th friday 10th – sunday 12th

DEPT. OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS + THE FACULTY OF ARTS BOOK LAUNCH: “tHE CONTINUOUS RELEVANCE OF THE NATION-STATE: THE POLITICAL ECONOMY OF THE PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY IN EGYPT” BY DR ARSALAN ALSHINAWI 6.00pm, Augla Magna, Old University, Valletta

mellow drama malta talk thirty to me!

8.oopm mitp, Valletta

thursday 9th

GO theatru unplugged 13 8.00pm, Manoel Theatre

Saturday 4th

moviment graffitti Living library 10.00am – 1.00pm, in front of University Library

DEPARTMENT OF ARTS AND LANGUAGES L’ITALIANO a’ MALTA: UNA LINGUA IN PERICOLO? għsl SCreening of taken 8.30am – 1.00pm, Dolmen Hotel 12.00pm – 2.00pm, Ksu Common Room INDIEVISION + NOSWEAT PRODUCTIONS university chaplaincy DOLLS FOR IDOLS & STOLEN CREEP LIVE Ecumenical service (with the participation 9.00pm, Escape Club of university vocal ensemble) 12.30pm, University Quadrangle Mmsa pubcrawl 10.00pm, (Starts at) Muddy Waters, St Julian’s sunday 5th malta community chest fund The president’s charity fun run/walk Walk Begins at 9.45am, Casa Leona, Santa Venera Run Begins at 10.00am, San Anton Palace, Ħ’Attard

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The Insiter • December 2010

THURSDAY 9th – FRIDAY 17th UNIVERSITY CHAPLAINCY SELLING OF CHRISTMAS PONSIETTAS (in aid of Dar tal-Providenza & L-Istrina) Radisson Blu Resort, St Julian’s

WEDNESDAY 15th DECEMBER

Asa + Mmsa + GĦsl + Uesa human rights day 2010 12.00pm – 2.00pm, Quadrangle

DegreePlus Drama Students CHristmas sketch 12.00pm, Chaplaincy

GREENHOUSE SPEED DATE AN ACTIVIST 10.00am – 12.00pm, Ksu Common Room

university chaplaincy Christmas Party 1.00pm, Chaplaincy Foyer

UNIVERSITY CHAPLAINCY TRADITIONAL PRIEDKA TAT-TIFEL 1.00pm, Quadrangle Front Kontra ċ-Ċensura + Stewsoft Theatre “QUOTE/UNQUOTE” 2.00pm – 4.00pm, Ksu Common Room FRIDAY 10th – SUNDAY 12th HardRock café DAVID KNOPFLER FOUNDER OF DIRE STRAITS LIVE 8.00pm, Manoel Theatre Saturday 11th Ksu THE KSU GRADUATION BALL 9.30pm, Grand Hotel Excelsior sunday 12th

Wednesday 15th – friday 17th monday 20th – thursday 23rd university chaplaincy + M.u.s.e.u.m.

CHristmas Novena (with the participation of m.u.s.e.u.m. Society members) 12.30pm, University Chapel THURSDAY 16th DECEMBER The University of Third Age Students Christmas concert 12.00pm, University Chapel the junior college orchestra Christmas concert 1.00pm, University Chapel Degreeplus pop choir Christmas concert 1.00pm, University Chapel

Patches Market PATCHES – THE CHRISTMAS EDITION 10.30am – 8.30pm, Is-Suq, Valletta

WEDNESDAY 22nd – SUNDAY 9th (JAN.)

scubed on the trail 2.30pm, Zurrieq Campsite

MADC SCROOGE – A CHRISTMAS PANTO 8.00pm, mfcc, Ta’ Qali

WEDNESDAY 17TH UNIVERSITY CHAPLAINCY Lunch in Aid of Angels Children’s Home, Ethiopia 11.00am – 2.00pm, Naxxar Oratory

What’s on?

friday 10th

Wednesday 22nd collegium musicum + University Vocal Ensemble christmas concert 7.30pm, St John’s Co-Cathedral, Valletta SUNDAY 26th – SUNDAY 9th (JAn.)

THURSDAY 18TH University Chaplaincy MINCE PIE, HONEY RING, MULLED WINE & IMBULJATA SALE (in aid of Dar talProvidenza and L-Istrina) Students’ House Foyer University Wind Ensemble CHRISTMAS CONCERT 1.00pm, Quadrangle

FM Theatre Productions CINDERELLA: THE GREATEST PANTO OF THEM ALL 3.00pm & 8.00pm/7.30pm, Manoel Theatre WEDNESDAY 29th DECEMBER mksu Christmas Meal with refugees

Ir-Rokna, Paceville

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natasha thea singh

by creating we think,

by living we learn.

The Insite IC Weekend 2010, "Creating Media with Professionals", took place at the Baystreet Hotel in Paceville between November 5 and 7. 130 delegates attended and participated in hands-on learning experiences. One participant recounts her experience as part of an assignment for the journalism workshop.

PHOTOGRAPHY ic weekend photography workshop

S

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itting on squeaky plastic chairs in a room overlooking the Baystreet Complex, my colleague and I are discussing ideas for an article that we think would catch students’ attention. Aldo Busuttil’s voice reverberates through the air, amid the hum of socialising people. I can hear chairs scraping floors, change dropping onto counters, and babies crying. I listen, and smile, reminding myself that my mind should be analysing IC Weekend and typing it out in newspaper jargon.

Massimo Farrugia, press officer and journalist, approaches us and gives us some tips on how to make a feature piece interesting. We give him some examples of our observations, and he blushes as I mention that the only attractive guys there are wearing wedding rings.

Others around us are chattering excitedly, working on their own features, and I sit back and sigh, wishing for a cup of good coffee as I work on the article you are currently reading.

The IC weekend is an annual conference organised by 'Insite', the student media organisation on campus, and provides learning opportunities for those interested in journalism, photography, and video editing. As an avid reader and writer, I opted for the journalism workshop, and was pleasantly surprised at how much I learned in such a short period of time. The speakers, Massimo Farrugia, Davinia Hamilton, and Vanessa Macdonald, are all experts in their area. They were well prepared and provided us with useful information and tips. Kristina Cassar, who is a Philosophy and English student, enthusiastically told me, “I feel that these workshops helped me to develop my skills and increase my confidence in journalistic writing”.

I too thoroughly enjoyed the interesting and amusing way in which each of these professionals stimulated us to learn more about the journalist’s work, and I could not help

The Insiter • December 2010

– Patrick geddes biologist, urban planner & educator

thinking that this was what I had in mind when I applied for the Communications course at University. Ms Hamilton, a sub-editor of The Sunday Times of Malta, spoke about what features the newspaper looks for in articles, and why some are chosen over others. She taught us some reporter lingo, along with giving us a good idea of what her job is like. She also helped us to come up with ideas for our own articles which would be published post-weekend. The second talk was presented by Mr Farrugia, complete with slick gelled hair, smooth-shaven cheeks, and a starched white shirt. He gave us an introduction to the world of interviews, news reports, and press releases. Later that day, half-dead with exhaustion and ready to nap throughout Ms Macdonald’s talk, she virtually slapped us awake with her “informal” way of speaking. Although she belongs to an older generation, she still managed to connect with her audience.

Speaking from her experience as the editor "di-ve.com", she educated us about what it really means to work as an online news reporter. She was witty and amiable, and certainly ended our Saturday workshops on a positive note.

The social aspect of IC weekend was also interesting, to put it one way. Within a few minutes of meeting my roommates, we were gaily testing our mattresses’ bounceability, and simultaneously preventing our bosoms from knocking each other unconscious. I also mildly recall being coerced into sexy dancing with a fellow member of aisec. I think there might have been alcohol involved.

The weekend was well organised, with time for coffee breaks and parties, ensuring a harmonious balance between work and play. Several students commented that they felt that the ice breakers were rather childish however. Another student felt that the weekend did not cater for people who do not consume alcohol or go clubbing, and so was rather limited when it came to leisure. I also found that the veg-

student orgs. etarian food options were extremely limited, especially with regard to lunches at Hard Rock Café. One could envision Darwin studying his ‘Theory of Evolution’ at the dinner buffet, which proved that the “survival of the fittest” theory does indeed qualify, as we hurled ourselves at the lukewarm morsels of food accessible to us.

The entire experience was both “insiteful” and enjoyable. We worked hard, and we partied hard, and one of the best parts was definitely the sense of achievement I felt upon receiving the certificate at the end. It was also remarkable to see how much talent we students have.

The photography and video students deserve a shout out of praise at their creativity and ingenuity.

Anyone with money (or a Smart Card), time, and caffeine pills, should definitely pop a few and get their derrière over to the 'Insite' stall at next year’s Freshers’ Week to book in advance for IC Weekend 2011, because those who did not attend definitely missed out.

P.S. In case anyone wondered but couldn’t be bothered to ask, "IC" does not stand for "Information Communication", or even "Intoxicating Cocktails’. It stands for "Insite-CommA", because the annual event used to be jointly organised by the two student organisations. Yes, I prefer the cocktails one too.

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13 Years of

christine caruana

desa appoints aegee-Valletta new executive On November 5, the aegee Executive Board celebrated thirteen years from the official founding of aegee-Valletta in Malta. A reception was held at 'Nove Wine and Beer Bar' in St. Julians, which many members and alumni of the association attended.

Back in November 1997, the founding President of aegee-Valletta, Mr Roger Bugeja, signed the Convention d’Adhesion during aegee’s bi-annual General Network Meeting (AGORA) in Ankara, Turkey. aegee-Valletta was thus officially enrolled as a contact antenna in aegee’s European Network. A year later, following its first international event hosted in Malta, the local branch was being recognised as an antenna.

Euchar Sultana, the current President of aegee-Valletta, spoke of the association’s many achievements over the past thirteen years. Among these are The National Recognition for Youth Work in Society Award (awarded in 2000 by the then Parliamentary Secretariat for Youth and Sport in the Ministry of Education). aegee-Valletta was ranked among the top organisations in campus, and was, on a number of occasions, voted as one of the best antennae by aegee-European members.

Mr Sultana presented the new Executive Board members for 2010-11, highlighted plans for the upcoming year, and congratulated Mr Pierre Vassallo La Rosa on his appointment as Network Commissioner within aegee-Europe.

isabelle camilleri

Photography

& art Exhibition This exhibition will be held by asa in the Quadrangle during Human Rights Week. asa would like to invite students to participate in this cultural experience and showcase their talent.

The theme of the art exhibition is ‘Human Rights aspects’, and the theme of the photography exhibition is ‘Human Rights abuses in different continents’.

The deadline for the submission of photography and art work is noon on December 5, 2010.

Letters of acknowledgement and appreciation gifts will be given to all participants.

For more information, kindly contact asa on asa.executive@gmail.com.

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The Insiter • December 2010

November 9 marked the election of desa’s new executive for 2010-11. This took place during the association’s agm held at gw Hall B2.

The executive board now consists of Irene Scicluna, Diane Brincat, Marie-Therese Camilleri, Luke Farrugia, Erin Stewart Tanti, Christine Caruana, and Elizabeth Farrugia.

They hold the respective posts of President, Vice President and General Secretary, editor of "text", Treasurer, Events Officer, Public Relations Officer, and Student Representative. desa, as the Department of English Students Association, connects the student body with the Department of English. Since 2006, its objective has been the fostering of an active cultural environment at University. It also helps in the effective organisation of departmental activities. Moreover, as part of desa’s overarching mission to promote the arts and humanities, it also established its online journal: "text".

The newly appointed executive is motivated to continue building on these successes while keeping the association fresh and innovative. Visit www.desa.org.mt to keep yourself updated.

Abigail cremona

Human Rights Week gĦsk (Criminology Students’ Association), mmsa (Malta Medical Students’ Association), Greenhouse, and asa (Arts Students’ Association), four different organisations with different priorities and objectives, have joined forces for a common purpose: to launch an initiative aimed at raising awareness about the most fundamental aspect of life: the meaning of living with Human Rights. Human Rights Day is going to be celebrated on December 10, and this year, the Council of Europe is celebrating the 60th Anniversary of the European Convention on Human Rights.

Human Rights Week, which is being organized by the aforementioned entities, is going to include the following events: between December 6 and 10, local off-Campus organisations that are defenders of Human Rights will come together in the Common Room to raise awareness about different human rights.

On December 10, and between December 13 and 16, from 10am to 1pm, events will be taking place in the Quadrangle, where a common tent together with an information stand will be set up.

student orgs.

anna abela

The ELSA Malta Law Review: Tradition meets Modernity Law school has historically been the place where tradition meets modernity. After all, where else are the ancient principles of Roman law taught in tandem with the fledgling discipline of Internet tort? elsa Malta’s most recent venture is indeed one such marriage between the traditional and the modern. Take an American legal tradition from the 19th century: the studentedited law review. Introduce it to the World Wide Web. The result is the 'elsa Malta Law Review', an online law review showcasing outstanding academic work by law students and legal practitioners alike.

If your dissertation is gathering dust on some forgotten bookshelf, or you are simply itching to pen your very own keen analysis of recent legal developments, then sharpen your pencils and start scribbling. The Law Review’s first Editorial Board, composed of Anna Abela, Lena Sammut, and David Testa, is currently welcoming contributions for the first edition. Contributions may include essays, book reviews, case summaries, case notes, book squibs, or articles based on dissertations submitted to the University of Malta.

If your ideas for submissions are still floating aimlessly in the ether, do not lose heart. The Editorial Board will be happy to assist you with a number of topics or court judgments that should tickle your fancy. Those of you who are attempting more ambitious topics will be able to benefit from the guidance of a number of dedicated Faculty members

who have lent their support to this project. elsa Malta is also currently organising two prestigious essay competitions, whose winners will take pride of place in the Review: the Department of European and Comparative Law Essay Competition, and the International Maritime Law Essay Competition.

The best essay on European Union Law submitted by an llb/lld student will win a cash prize offered by Head of Department, Professor Peter G. Xuereb. Students reading EU Law at postgraduate level as well as legal practitioners (who have not been practising for more than two years) will be in the running for a special prize to be awarded by elsa Malta’s sponsors.

International Law aficionados are invited to submit an essay on: ‘International Efforts to Combat Piracy’, in a bid to win a cash prize offered by ELSA Malta’s long-standing Patron, Professor Chev. David J. Attard, who is currently serving as Director of the International Maritime Law Institute (imli).

If this short piece has whetted your appetite, please contact Editor-in-Chief Anna Abela on anna.adriana.abela@ gmail.com for our style and citation guides, a copy of our Editorial Policy, and the Essay Competition Rules. The deadline for first submissions has been extended to the December 31, 2010.

andrew sciberras

Quid Juris? Online

Law Student Journal On October 6, 2010, L-Għaqda Studenti tal-Liġi (gĦsl) proudly launched 'Quid Juris? Online Law Student Journal'.

This is an electronic legal journal, wherein students may submit any law-related articles, be they analysis and/or criticisms of the law, court judgments, and opinions, including opinions on the day-to-day lives of law students at the University of Malta.

But there’s a catch. It is our firm belief that the term "students" does not merit a narrow interpretation, for at the end of the day, despite twenty years of experience in Court litigation or astute academic research, we are and shall always remain students of the law. It is for this reason that Quid Juris? is also open for legal practitioners and academics to make

submissions, although University students are particularly encouraged to embrace the opportunity provided to them and participate in discussing the ever-changing nature of the law.

The journal, available on http://quidjuris.ghsl.org/, has already received various contributions on topics ranging from intellectual property law to an analysis of potential divorce legislation, as well as critical analyses on the strengths and shortcomings of the law course as currently structured. Students wishing to make contributions are kindly directed to contact the Editorial Board on quidjuris@ghsl.org, or to view the website for further information.

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CLAIRE BONELLO

the claire chRonicles Passionate, silly and a bit of a nerd; every month, this law student and lover-of-life writes about productivity, positivity and pretty stuff, among other things.

This month she shares what she loves about her favourite time of year and how to joyfully milk every drop of the spirit of Christmas.

Christmastime is definitely my favourite time of year. Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, it’s hard to deny that this season is a very special one. As soon as the end of summer starts creeping up on me, there will be an unmistakable spring in my step at the mere thought of the wonderful proximity of Christmastime.

I think I can already hear the groans and grumbles of people who will begin listing the awful side of Christmas: the frenzy of forced gift-giving, having to go through the ordeal of worrying about what to wear and where to go, and having to endure the general hullaballoo of dancing Santas, excessive tinsel, and whingeing carols and Christmas songs.

Yes, the stresses of Christmastime may reduce you to a weary and impoverished wreck by mid-December, and many may insist that it is merely an overly-commercialised holiday centred on materialism, but I invite you to join me and refuse to succumb to being a grumpy old Grinch. Instead, let’s embrace the love and warmth of this joyous time of year and be the ones stuffing our faces with mince pies and handing out impeccably wrapped gifts to our loved ones. Being critical of this season will do nothing but add to your stress, so give in to twinkly lights, Christmas-themed everything, and the abundance of delicious food.

Here are a few ways to help you effectively milk every ounce of the Christmas spirit this, and every, year: - Get out there in the streets’ hustle and bustle, wrapped up in woolly scarves and mittens (bonus points if you’re wearing ear muffs with a silly design), and embrace the gift buying and the traditions, from delicious food and treats to the hundred-year-old carols about joy, peace, and happiness.

- If Christmas marks a religious holiday for you, it’s a wonderful opportunity to give thanks and celebrate with special services and traditions, such as a beautifully-sung midnight mass and putting together a crib.

- Attend seasonal festivals which are specially set up at this time of year all over the Maltese Islands. Brave the chilly wind and indulge in candied apples while listening to irritatingly-cute and offtune children’s choirs.

- Thoroughly enjoy buying and making Christmas gifts.

Finding or creating that perfect present for a friend or family member is very satisfying. This year, try to give “experiences” rather than just “stuff”. Perhaps your best friend would love tickets to a concert or football game; your mum could use a back massage; and anyone would love a batch of freshly-baked Christmas cupcakes (you could add a touch of Christmas spices and decorate them with red, white and green frosting). The best, feel-good gifts are affordable, practical ones which are stylish and specially chosen for the recipient, or are little luxuries that a person would not readily buy for themselves. A lovely idea would be a self-made hamper designed for a particular person or family in mind. Maybe you’d like someone special to have more enjoyable breakfasts, so fill a pretty basket with yummy jams, chocolate spreads, and decadent cereal packets (with ingredients like Forest Berries or Creamy Fudge).

- Donate to a cause that you care about, and make a difference at this time of year. Your gift to someone could be a donation in their name to a particular charity, or you could ensure that every purchased gift is a Fair Trade product.

- Recruit others in your mission to thoroughly enjoy Christmas. Decorate a Christmas tree together as a family, or gather around with people you love for a gift wrapping session. Ribbons, coloured paper and bright stickers are all part of the fun.

Spread the love and have a very merry Christmas.

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The Insiter • December 2010

rEGULARS

if any of you have any issues you need brought to my attention, send an email to nitpicker.insiter@gmail.com

The Nitpicker his month has been painfully boring. So much so that I wish it was last year again. What with pseudopornographic articles, the laughably ineffective ‘Front Kontra ċ-Ċensura’ (which, for some unfathomable reason, Facebook thinks I am interested in), and the farce that was the ksu election, it seemed that there would be no shortage of hilarity ensuing on campus. Fast forward to this year and there’s nothing. I predicted that Careers Convention would give me an interesting venue towards which to dispense bile, but from what I could see students constantly strolled right past “the maze of job opportunities”, the prospect of a job so far removed from their minds it may as well be situated in Andromeda.

Upon reading Mr Leone-Ganado’s article last week, I dismissed it as exaggerations. After all, surely some students must give a damn about the forces that govern their lives.

But alas, it seems, he is woefully right. I spent some time asking both friends and strangers about ksu and the relevant student political parties. The information I garnered can be summarised as: ‘Dawk tal-Labour’ (Pulse), and ‘Dawk tanNazzjonalisti’ (sdm), and no matter how much ksu profess that they are not affiliated with the larger political party, the members’ close public ties with sdm do not help public perception of student politics. Perhaps it is partly this Party affiliation that is driving the majority of the student body away from university politics. Or perhaps it is something deeper; the sense that the student can affect change has died, perhaps it was never alive to begin with. Tiananmen and the ’68 revolts in Paris are but distant dreams evoked by those in a privileged life who think they can compare themselves to the martyrs of those days.

This is why today I have no funny anecdotes, no observations about the absurdity of life at uom eh, because the joke has ceased to be funny. Being a student today does not mean garnering an education that will serve you for life. It means that I must pass my exams so that I can get a degree and maybe, if the planets have aligned and you have sacrificed a virgin to Huitzilopochtli, you can find a job with said degree.

Being a student today means that you must be so focused, so driven towards the attainment of this goal that any opportunity to party and drink is taken as a god-given right. There is no longer the will to affect change because deep down we know that we are powerless in the face of the authorities and without unity power cannot be challenged. This is why, in

2010, we still hear stories of students afraid to challenge a lecturer. Because that lecturer wields power supreme in the correction of your paper, and students are not assured of impartiality.

And this is why I do not want to write about ksu spending €11,000 to plate the common room in gold (presumably), while the Student Organisations Fund languishes at €5,000, or comment on how at least three of the people giving speeches at the graduation ceremonies were part of the selection board. No one will care, because, hey, it’s no big deal. What does it matter who gives the speech? What does it matter that money is spent and there is no accountability as to how? But it should matter, and because of the apathy that surrounds the modern Maltese student, these little ‘So Whats?’ culminate in the view that nothing is worth doing unless it directly affects myself.

So ksu can go on being ineffectual towards the student body as a whole and only have its use as a stepping stone towards local politics. No doubt Carl Grech will appear on a ballot sheet and people will remember him as ‘Dak li kien il-president tal-ksu’, and throw a vote his way if he happens to be aligned with the correct party. I am sure this can be said for every member of ksu today, and I, for one, look forward to seeing Angelo’s many chins wobbling on a podium in Parliament in the near future.

Love, The Nitpicker

illustration iella

T

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letter to the Editor Dear Editor, I was quite disappointed with the analysis of Hillary Briffa in her article, "Political Punch-Up" in the last issue of The Insiter, as it lacked objectivity and a proper analysis.

First of all, Moviment Indipendenti was literally trashed by the statement that (quoting), "After failing to gain votes, however, they are determined this time to mount a largescale campaign’’. The author should have know, before writing such a statement, that ‘Moviment Independenti’ obtained around 350 block votes, from a political campaign which lasted only seven days. Considering the situation at hand, we did indeed claim that we were satisfied with the result as we had mounted a large protest vote in a very short space of time while also giving a good challenge to the Christian-Democrats.

Now we are determined to expand our challenge as we, alongside most of the students, are thirsty for change. We are not posing as a Napoleonic force, but simply criticising the current Students' Council on founded allegations which the Council has ignored and failed to respond to.

This was clearly shown when the Council’s President replied to accusations about its lack of policy-making by giving out the expenditure on the Common Room and other schemes. However, Hillary Briffa has ignored the fact that expenditure does not necessarily constitute policies, and that expenditure can be presented lavishly without there being in place any concrete policies on how this expenditure is effected.

Mark Camilleri

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The Insiter • December 2010

OPINIONS neville bezzina

student organisations:

the challenges A

nyone who has invested a portion of their University years working in a student organisation will confirm that it’s no trip to candy mountain. Being on the executive board or sub-committee of such a group is often more akin to riding a unicorn through a thunderstorm.

While many student organisations have systems of procedure and protocol in place, the experience of being on an executive board has always been, for me at least, quite distinctly raw. It’s an awesome experience, but it can leave you rattled. I’m sure that, given the chance, most of us would opt for a smoother ride.

There’s a long list of problems that plague student organisations. Here, I can only touch upon a few. In September, the ksu-kps seminar included a workshop that attempted to deal with the rampant student apathy that pervades our University. Timothy Falzon, the president of JEF Malta, remarked that, “the greatest challenge of all is that of lack of participation...this can only be overcome if the organisations are able to reach out to students by organising activities and events which revolve around the students they represent.”

Beyond the challenge of encouraging participation, most apparent are the logistical challenges, such as the miracle required to schedule weekly meetings after negotiating each person’s busy timetable. While free online scheduling tools such as Doodle can be useful, most organisations end up scheduling meetings after 5pm and in the weekends. Long hours are part and parcel of the experience, and unlike parttime jobs, there is no financial gratification. However, this is not what frustrates most of us. Most feel that the value of what organisations offer members (“non-formal learning”) is often under appreciated, under represented, and not integrated into an evaluation-based educational structure.

This might change in the future, as the Student Participation Accreditation system which has been announced will give Degree Plus certification to students who participate in weekend seminars and the like. Still, I find that the work of students who spend hours organising such events isn’t being

given enough attention. A very real challenge for any executive team is to find enough resources to dedicate to organising a project/event. Irene Scicluna, newly elected President of DESA states that, “people’s levels of commitment tend to vary throughout the year, with February and May seeing student organisations experiencing an exam-time vacuum. The toughest challenge is to ensure that there are enough human resources allocated at any given time.”

There is also the oft-cited lack of real office space to operate from (most offices in Students’ House are shared between two, three, or even more organisations).While new buildings are constantly springing up around campus, student organisations are left to share pigeon holes. New organisations have to compete for space against older, more established ones, or choose to operate out of coffee shops.

Precarious financial situations and no easy way to monetise operations except through fundraisers and donations are another challenge. Long-term financial sponsorship from corporate partners takes time to achieve. This makes the creation of “idea-based” organisations that promote an ideology a rare event, with most organisations following Departmental/Faculty lines and representing a particular course or degree.

It’s a jungle mentality out there, with survival of the fittest being the cardinal rule. Not that competitiveness is wrong: it just shouldn’t be the driving force behind student organisations. When the main aim of an organisation is to notch up enough points in ksu’s Room Allocation Report system to stay inside a small office shared by two other groups, the potential for longer-term planning and projects is severely hindered. Coupled with the quick turnover of executive members due to people graduating and moving on, this impinges on the growth of organisations. The overall effect is an ingrained short-sightedness. Too many lookalike social events are held, with the main concern always being the next event. It would be encouraging to see more long term projects being carried out by student organisations.

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(or paid)

chris Bergedahl

Free education for all: >

why are we complaining?

T

he month of November saw thousands of protestors descend upon the City of London, and in particular Westminster. Students of university age protested and caused general havoc and damage. The reason behind this was that from 2012, universities in the UK will be able to charge up to £9000 in tuition fees. That’s right, students in the UK may have to pay around 60% of the average annual pay of a Maltese worker1 in order to attend university for just one year. This does not include the cost of accommodation, living expenses, books and any other materials that may be required (such as tickets to parties, come to think of it).

While the student protests were sending Central London into a chaotic state, with officers and civilians being injured, we sat comfortably here in our cosy little island, making angry noises because our beloved government refuses to increase our stipends. It’s true that, in real terms, every year students lose out if stipends aren’t adjusted to the Cost of Living Increase. It’s true that not every family has the financial resources to put their children through University. It’s true that the government strives to stimulate and encourage education. But if I’m to be perfectly honest, the fact that we are being paid to go to school is not only an advantage, but a downright privilege which I don’t think many of us truly deserve, considering the amount of pupils slacking, missing lessons, and spending their stipends on alcohol and cigarettes. Don’t get me wrong, there are many diligent students out there who want to invest in their careers, but there are many others who are in it just for the money. And this is not right.

Some might not have stopped to think where this money for stipends comes from. “From the government’s bank account!” I hear some of you cry. Well, yes, but that same bank account has deposits coming in from your parents, and your money. This is money which I believe they would much rather spend on things other than funding students who don’t really care that they’re in a tertiary institution. In 2009, the government spent 21 million euro on student maintenance grants. That is a big number. With government debt rising each year, and several budget deficits registered in the recent past, the question remains: for how long can the government sustain such spending, when other areas such as pension funds are already starting to run dry? Economically, this is not a sustainable policy, and though, yes, it has brought more youths into tertiary education, it is restricting public funding in other areas which probably need the money just as much as the students do. Even the European authorities have frowned upon our system, as Malta remains the only country to give universal student stipends.

The Maltese mentality needs to change. With every passing year, the Maltese workforce becomes more and more skilled. Our standard of living is increasing as a result. Wages are going up, and people are living more comfortably. The idea of living without stipends is a reality that Maltese students may soon have to face. The more involved we become in the developed world, the more we must start behaving like citizens of a developed nation.

This calculation has been made according to the figures posted on http://www.eurofound.europa.eu/eiro/studies/tn0808019s/ mt0808019q.htm, where it has been stated that the average wage in Malta was around €13090 in 2007, equivalent to around £14700.

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The Insiter • December 2010

OPINIONS matthew bugeja

Why cut and run in Afghanistan won’t cut it I

f you were to ask any citizen of a Western power what they think of keeping their troops in Afghanistan for the next several years, you’ll probably get an angered explanation of how the conflict has been a waste of time, treasure, and lives. You’re likely to hear that the money spent there would have been better spent on improving social services in their own country, or perhaps helping to prop up their fragile economy. While the argument has its validity, it’s forgetting that the Western powers involved in the conflict all spend 4% or less of their gdp per year on their militaries, and they spend even less than that on the war itself.

Now I’ll admit that a war in a far away land during a time of economic recession will always be a sensitive subject. A lot of money has been spent, lives have been lost, and no clear gain has been made in any discernible way. The public seems to be increasingly against a continued occupation, and they have legitimate reasons for their position. Those who support a continued presence, a small minority by most calculations, have been called war mongers by those who oppose a continuation of the war. It seems as though two sided arguments in today’s society have become a feature of the past, rather than a bedrock of democratic ideals.

If one were to glance through Afghanistan’s recent history, you’d see that both foreign occupiers, the British and Soviets, lost their respective wars there. But if you were to look further into Afghan history, you would find another fact buried in the sands of time: Afghanistan has never had a lasting peace that was accomplished through means other than war. Some may say that there’s a first time for everything, but when history and tradition has had hundreds of years to ingrain something into a people, it’s difficult to change the trajectory of their thinking.

Recently, efforts have been made to start peace talks with the Taliban. My question in this regard is: what motivation do the Taliban have to hold serious peace talks, when their Western opponents have one eye on the exit and an Afghan government in Kabul too weak to withstand its onslaught?

The Taliban have little to gain from forming a coalition government with the current Afghan government through peace talks, when they can conserve their forces and energy and make a serious push in the next few years to attempt to take the entire country by means of force. This is not to say that the West will not have a number of forces there, but there is no telling how many will be left in two or three years’ time, or whether it will be enough to hold off a determined Taliban offensive.

For years, Afghanistan had been neglected due to the conflict in Iraq. It’s only in the last two and a half years that focus has been placed on it again. There has not really been enough time to get things turned around after nearly seven years of neglect. The war there is likely to rage for a number of years yet. The question is: if the West leaves, what will that mean for Afghanistan?

If Afghanistan’s history is anything to go by, as well as its current trajectory, it is unlikely to be positive. The global recession will come and go within the next several years, lessons will (hopefully) be learnt to avoid a reoccurrence in the future. So using the same parallel, who is it to say that lessons cannot be learned from Afghanistan? Who is to say that the lessons learned cannot slowly turn things around? The Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan in 1989 showed what can happen when a conflict is left to fester. More pragmatic debate is required, as the consequences of a half baked withdrawal will only plunge the country, and perhaps even the region, into further turmoil.

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Free calls and SMS to your 3 best friends vodafone.com.mt/student

environment

malcolm borg

Turning resource

into refuse

W

hile Greenhouse is still running after the University’s administration for a fully-functioning waste separation scheme to be introduced on campus, there is another concept that is worth looking at when one speaks of waste.

This concept is waste reduction.

The first of the three Rs and the golden rule when it comes to sustainable resource use is “reduce”. We have a disposability consciousness: we’re happy to have some things packed in a wrapper which we immediately throw away, we use disposables to avoid having to wash plates and cutlery, and we never give a second thought about the waste something will generate when we are buying a product. This is exactly the problem. We produce massive amounts of waste, and although some waste is inevitable there is a huge portion of it that we can avoid generating in the first place.

How can we reduce our waste generation?

First of all, if you buy your own groceries try to buy in bulk and prevent purchasing products having excess packaging. For example, it is better to buy one 500g packet of spaghetti rather than buying two 250g packets. Croissant packets and the like contain individually wrapped croissants in addition to being placed in a box wrapped in additional plastic wrapping. There are cereals packaged in plastic bags which are in turn placed in a cardboard box, while other cereals are

packaged only in a plastic bag. There are simple choices you can make to reduce the packaging waste produced when you buy items Some other suggestions are: • Putting a ‘No Junk Mail’ sticker on your letterbox to avoid receiving hoards of useless brochures; • Printing on both sides of a paper; • Buying rechargeable batteries and re-useable pens; • Politely rejecting offers from shopkeepers or cashiers to provide bags to put purchased items in. Instead, take a cloth bag with you.

Refraining from buy anything you don’t need. If you check in your stores or ask family and friends, you can often get a hold of things you need without spending money and generating waste.

On the occasion of the European Week for Waste Reduction (EWWR), Greenhouse spent a week on campus attempting to drive the message home on this subject. Throughout the week, Greenhouse members explained these concepts to passers-by. They tackled double-sided printing on the first day, packaging waste on the second, junk mail on the third, re-using materials on the fourth, and composting on the last day.

You can visit Greenhouse’s website: www.greenhousemalta.com, or email on green.uom@gmail.com for more information.

travelling smart T

he University of Malta has announced its initiative to develop a ‘Green Travel Plan’ for current and future staff, students, and visitors. By means of this, the University will introduce more cost-effective, efficient, and attractive travel solutions, with the aim of improving the range and quality of travel choices available. This should result in the promotion of healthier lifestyles, a reduction in the University’s carbon footprint, and an improvement in the overall environment on campus. It is a commendable effort on the part of the uom to promote sustainable transport while en-

couraging social responsibility.

Information about travel patterns has been collected by means of a questionnaire which all staff members and students were requested to complete. Thus, the needs of all will be examined and taken into account when coming up with practical solutions having long-term benefits for all University users.

To learn more about the Green Travel Plan, please access the website: www.um.edu.mt/isd/greentravel.

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FairTrade

joseph caruana

our university

This was the aim of a petition which the student organisation Greenhouse coordinated together with “Kooperativa Kummerċ Ġust” during One World Week at University. The petition is an open-ended request to the University Canteen operator to give students the option to buy Fair Traded coffee, tea, and sugar. This is not asking for the complete makeover of the Canteen’s operation but rather giving us, the students, the ability to choose between Fair Traded and non-Fair Traded goods.

The petitioning was faced with a number of misunderstandings that students have about Fairtrade goods. So here I will try to explain what makes Fairtrade goods “fairer”, and how this is a tool which will help the development of economically deprived sectors in our world.

For starters, all workers who produce Fair Traded products are guaranteed a Fair Trade Minimum Price (ftmp) for their products. This is a price which, regardless of changes in the international prices, is guaranteed to the producer. This doesn’t mean that it’s a fixed rate, since when the market price rises above the ftmp the price is renegotiated to give greater profit to the producer and his community.

As consumers, we would be giving the producers their fair wage for their labour.

Another characteristic of ft goods is the ft Premium, which directs part of the money collected towards investing in the community. This is done by means of a democratically elected Joint Body which oversees the investment of this money back into the community. This money is usually spent on improved farming techniques, education, and healthcare.

As consumers, we would be giving back to the community as a whole money to invest in public goods.

Different from the logic of the market, Fairtrade products sustain small scale farms and operate with the structure of Cooperatives. What this means is that even in the global market environment, small scale farmers are guaranteed access to buyers of their goods and are not forced out by larger competitors. Furthermore, all decision making between the farmers follows ethical principles and democratic processes guaranteed by the Cooperative structure.

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The Insiter • December 2010

As consumers, we should want to give a voice to the producer and his worker and wish to see an ethical model of the method of production.

Little do we realise that what really links us to people such as Edinson Zapata, a banana producer from Colombia, and Makandianfing Keita, a Malian Cotton producer, is what we buy on an almost daily basis. Through Fair Trade Certification, you are guaranteed that what you buy is part of the solution for economically deprived individuals around the world. What really and truly counts to these people is what choices you make on a daily basis. Who are you, based on what you buy? Choose to be a student who would want to ensure that the farmers who produced what you buy will be getting a fair payment, that the environment is taken care of, fair labour conditions are strictly adhered to, direct trade is favoured, democratic and transparent organisations are supported, and community development is enhanced.

Choose to Shop Fair.

By the end of the week, the petition started by Greenhouse had been signed by 500 students. It will be used to engage with the relevant authorities over the introduction of ft products at the University of Malta.

environment

every breath we take

The malta environment and planning authority (mepa) tackles the issue of air quality, and its impact on our health and environment.

The quality of our air is a subject that attracts a great deal of attention by people from all walks of life, a fact that should come as no surprise considering that air quality has an effect on the health of each and every individual on the island (and indeed in the world). While we may not be aware of it while it is happening, breathing in noxious substances can do irreparable damage to our bodies.

While research shows that the quality of Malta’s air is closely monitored and, on the whole, meets European standards, there is always room for improvement. With the aim of identifying the best way forward, the Malta Environment and Planning Authority has carried out a detailed Air Quality Plan which proposes a number of practical measures to tackle the main causes of air pollution.

The Plan starts off by stating that despite Malta’s respectable track record in the area, an air quality plan is needed to ensure that the sources of air pollution, such as traffic emissions, are reduced to even lower levels in order to bring the country fully in line with the eu’s Air Quality Framework Directive.

The plan also identifies a number of key sources of pollution, with traffic, industry, and energy generation being identified as the main culprits. The document also explains that the dust particle pm10 is the main air pollutant found across the Maltese Islands. This pollutant is mainly caused by traffic emissions, and the plan outlines a number of ways in which it can be reduced. Other measures proposed in the

plan aim to reduce the levels of sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and lead found in the air.

One important potential solution to the challenge of reducing air pollutants is the reduction of vehicle emissions.

This can be achieved by encouraging a change in travelling patterns and habits, by reducing the traffic impact of new developments, by implementing better road network management practices, and by promoting cleaner vehicle technologies.

While the Air Quality Plan outlines the way forward, a number of measures have already been taken, including roadside emission testing, the introduction of park and ride facilities, and cva (Controlled Vehicular Access) in areas with high traffic density such the capital city, Valletta.

Regulations for reducing particulate matter from construction sites and fiscal incentives for the purchase of cars that use "cleaner" technology have also been introduced. There are over 130 air monitoring sites across the islands, and four air monitoring stations in operation, which determine the concentration levels of most air pollutants every 15 minutes.

The new measures proposed in the Plan will continue to improve upon the results obtained and will also include educational initiatives to encourage better travel planning and car pooling. Furthermore, the plan also outlines how increased incentives to invest in vehicles with cleaner technology, and the planting of vegetation along roads and industrial estates to absorb emissions, can be extremely beneficial.

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tamara fenech

History repeats itself The second Malta Comic Convention, organised by Wicked Comics Malta, was held at St james Cavalier in Valletta between October 16 and 17. Once again, the event was a resounding success.

PHOTOGRAPHY tamara fenech

W

32

hile flipping through a newspaper, you see countless articles, myriad adverts, and a few eye-catching pictures. Perhaps you flip through it distractedly, only stopping to scan the sports page or the business section. Along the way, an interesting photo catches your eye, or an article looks inviting, but for some people what really captures their attention is something entirely different: the comic strip.

Comics have been around for a long time. Man has always been fascinated with lines and forms. He observed nature and the world around him, and translated what he saw into meaningful depictions. With time, he also discovered that not only could he copy nature, but also invent new scenes. Thus, an important step towards narrative art was made. Comics epitomise the development of narrative art into sequential art. From Japanese comics called Manga to American and European ones, comics are varied in style and form. Their intrinsic beauty lies in their universality and versatility, their popularity, and their ability to appeal to people from all walks of life.

The Insiter • December 2010

Last year, "Wicked Comics" (the voluntary organisation aimed at promoting the comic culture both in Malta and abroad) made history when it held the first Comic Convention in Malta. This was so well received that it has become the flagship event of "Wicked Comics", and this unique event was held again this year on October 16 and 17 at St James Cavalier.

Headlining the event were professional creators from abroad who were invited by "Wicked Comics" to help develop the Maltese comic scene further, and to actively participate in the cultural exchange dialogue that the Comic Con provides.

These guests included: Renee Witterstaetter from the USA, whose experience in various fields of the comic industry – including stints at Marvel and involvement in the production of a number of Hollywood movies – has led her to become the President of Little Eva Ink publishing house.

Claudio Castellini, from Italy, is arguably one of the best comic creators in the world. Claudio is well known for being the first creator hailing from Italy to work with the two major comic publishers in America: Marvel and DC, thus paving the way for other Italian creators to follow suit. This feat has earned him the title of "maestro", by which he is referred to by his peers.

Liam Sharp, Gary Erskine, Tim Perkins, Dave Windett, and Sean Azzopardi, all from the UK, completed the guest list. Liam Sharp, whose career is as vast as it is varied, has his own publishing house called Mamtor, and his recent work includes the graphic novel adaptation of the popular video game "Gears of War".

Artist Gary Erskine has worked with some of the leading writers in the industry, including Warren Ellis, Garth Ennis, Grant Morrison, Paul Jenkins, and Dan Abnett. His work has been published by all the major comic book publishers.

Tim Perkins, who also attended the first Comic Con held in Malta, has worked on some of the most loved characters, such as Superman, Batman, Spiderman, Transformers,

FEATURE Thundercats, Doctor Who, Postman Pat, and Tiny Toons.

Tim has done the cover of "The Golden Lizard", the first graphic novel to be published in Malta. To date, the support he offers to the Maltese comic scene remains second to none.

Dave Windett’s work includes a number of well known licensed characters, which include Inspector Gadget, Eek the Cat, Ace Ventura, Daffy Duck and Korky the Cat. When it comes to the independent scene and self-publishing, few have more knowledge then London-based artist Sean Azzopardi, whose critically acclaimed works include Twelve Hour Shift, ed, and Necessary Monsters.

Complementing the foreign artists was the Maltese contingent, made up of graduates and University students, who came together to create an artistic product for the Maltese Comic scene while having fun in an inspiring environment and learning from each other’s skills. The Malta Comic Con is providing an important opportunity for these talented and budding comic creators. For the first time in Malta, the 2010 show saw the publication of a first wave of locally created and published comics, including The Golden Lizard, which is the first graphic novel to be published in Malta, and was created by Fabio Agius, Chris Le Galle and Mark Ellul; Joseph Bugeja’s Ħal Mudlam, and The Tsar (created in collaboration with Joseph P. Farrugia); Fabio Gaingolini’s For Gallantry; and Bernard Micallef’s first ever Manga called Arcana Crusade.

Comic enthusiasts attending the convention could buy collectables and art supplies from retailers and enjoy a personal and unique signed sketch from the artists present. There were many activities going on, like the showing of films such as Metropolis, a Japanese anime, and Planet Hulk. A lot of interesting talks were held by a number of foreign artists regarding the comic scene abroad, among them a talk on anime, and Gorg Mallia’s talk about the concept of the super hero. A series of workshops were held by these foreign artists for both children and adults. Whether they

centred on how to draw comic characters or on how to lay out a comic in panels, those who attended found them to be tremendously fruitful.

Various people dressed in vivacious costumes took photographs of each other with the artists and then took part in the Cosplay (coined from the words “costume” and “play”) competition, during which the best costume was chosen.

Participants wore costumes and accessories to represent a specific character from a comic, film, anime, tv series, and so on, and performed a quick play in order to bring the characters to life.

Gaming is a major component of the comic culture.

The Convention included a games room. Apart from casual console gaming on Xbox and PS3, tournaments were held on both days. Well worth mentioning is local programmer Redeemer Caruana‘s participation in the show. His pc game, Chosen: The Legacy of Gaelan, will be launched on the net shortly. In a quieter area, Role Playing and War Gaming games were held. For the purpose of these activities, participants purchase a set of figurines and paint them. They then take part in strategy and scenario based games which involve the rolling of dice and a vivid imagination.

This year’s Comic Con proved to be another success.

There were bigger crowds and more interest from the Maltese public, which was reflected in visits from dignitaries such as Mrs Gonzi and the President’s wife, Mrs Abela. The foreign artists who also attended last year’s show remarked about the vast improvement made by the local artists. London-based journalist Chris Thompson came over in order to review the Comic Con for his web magazine "Pop Culture Hound".

Preparations for next year’s Comic Con are already underway. One thing is certain: it will be bigger and better. For more information, please visit www.maltacomic-con.com.

See you next year! As usual, any ideas are more than welcome.

insiteronline.com

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Emma Gauci & Tamara Chetcuti

Keeping it Funky ‘Six guys. A few styles. One intiative.’

The insiter interviews Funk Initiative.

PHOTOGRAPHY glorianne cassar

I

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t’s 11.00am on a Saturday morning and the University Quad is a relatively placid place. The only people around are workers assembling a gala tent and a spattering of students who, try as they might, are having no success at concealing the extent of the previous night’s activities. Thermos mug in hand, I amble over to a picnic table where fellow Insiter Tamara Chetcuti is waiting. Within a few minutes, we’ve been joined by five of the six instrument-wielding artistes. Animated conversation ensues. No prizes for guessing that the topics revolved around music, bands, gigs… need I continue?

We meet the final band member at the pizzeria of their choice. While some of the band members seem to be weighing the pros and cons of a slice of pizza at that awkward time of the morning, I was surprised to learn that the band originally began way back in 2006, in the depths of St Aloysius College Sixth Form. At the time, sixteen-year-old me remembers them going by the slightly cringe-worthy name of "Wilted Rose". Since then, the band has undergone a number of changes. Today, all that’s left of the original group are Gianluca and Daniel. The boys themselves are surprised as they realise that their current line-up has only been around since March 2010, when they took part in and proceeded to win the ksu Singer Songwriters’ Showcase. They are now: Daniel Cassar (guitar), Gianluca Bezzina (vocals), Shaun Abdilla (bass), Fabian Bonello (saxophone and occasionally tambourine), Daniel Buttigieg (drums), and Paul Torpiano (piano/synth and backing vocals).

With influences ranging from Radiohead to Mumford and Sons, the band’s style is hardly funk at all, so naturally we’re intrigued. How did the name come about? We’re told the choice was not an easy one. Wanting to do away with “Wilted”, due to its relatively dark connotations and the fact that the group no longer plays much rock, they decided to come up with a new name. That was the hard part. Three months, one competition and a number of names later, they had discarded the likes of "Gian & Band", "Bus Stop Boxers", and "Kids With Beards" (this last one simply because none of them actually have a beard). The moment of epiphany came when a friend of Paul’s suggested they call themselves "Funk Initiative". From then on, the name stuck. So, to answer our question, the guys tell us that, no, what they play isn’t so

The Insiter • December 2010

much funk as “indie alternative music, with jazzy chords. The feel is funk.” By general consensus, they seem to agree that while Fabian and Paul provide the group’s signature sound, it’s not so much about the genre they play but more about what they want the audience to feel. Using their definition of “funk”, the guys name "Just the Two of Us" and "Call Me" as the two funkiest songs in their repertoire. It’s when they play these two songs that they really sense people feeling "the funk".

While we’re on the subject of funk music, all you fans of the genre will be pleased to know that bassist Shaun is actually in the process of penning a funk song. As far as songwriting goes, I’m told that this is quite different to the usual approach. It’s generally Paul who comes up with original material. The process usually starts out as a melody at the piano. In the time that follows, often during a particularly mind numbing lecture or two, he thinks about the themes and possible lyrics, and finally presents it to the band. If it’s liked, the whole band will modify, tweak, and sometimes completely re-hash the song until everyone is pleased with the outcome.

In terms of innovative sounds, it’s not just the funk songs we’re eager to hear. On the suggestion of a fan, the band took a liking to the idea of writing a song to accommodate the sound of an accordion, though I’ll leave it up to you to guess which one of them will be playing it. Keen to keep the originality coming, the boys enthusiastically inform us of their pretty nifty crowd pleaser. Having seen it myself a couple of times, I’m amused at Tamara’s reaction when she’s informed that their favourite party trick to date is having Paul play the piano… with his nose. And believe me, it’s entertaining.

Funk Initiative moves on to tell us about their latest song, "Remix Bitches". The bemused look on our faces asks the question, “What on earth could it be about?” With a certain air de connâitre, Paul tells us that most songs we hear on the radio today are "designed" to be successful and catchy.

Their mission was to imitate this overproduced style, but instead of the regular humdrum string of words spewed out on a regular basis by the music industry, they’ve added lyrics

culture which go beyond crowd pleasing, and endeavour to poke fun at run-of-the-mill music. Put simply, “The song is catchy but it criticises itself.”

When they’re not mocking pre-fabricated music, the boys assure us that they’re perfectly happy taking on a wide variety of themes for their music, as long as the end result is meaningful. "40" is about a forty-year-old who is disappointed by the fact that he hasn’t achieved all the dreams his twenty-something-year-old self had planned.

On the other hand, "My Robot Monkey Army’s Better Than Yours" is all about, well, a robot monkey army. Amid a cacophony of laughter and a few odd stares from strangers, Shaun tells us that the name came about on one particularly drunken night and was originally suggested as a name for the band. On the sober end of the phone call, Paul decided that it was “no good for a band, but it’s an amazing name for a song”, and the rest is history.

After initial doubts regarding their recording of "Forget It" were appeased, the boys from Funk Initiative are pleased to announce that this song will in fact be their first airplay and they are looking to release it in the near future.

This is just one of the eight originals the band has come up with so far because, as they tell us, “We’re all about the originals. A band that focuses on covers isn’t a band at all.”

Their next appearances will be at the ksu Graduation Ball on December 10, 2010, and at Hacienda over the Christmas period, where they will be playing alongside Vinnie Vintage. For those of you who haven’t yet had the chance to hear "Funk Initiative" play, this is clearly an opportunity not to be missed.

The eight of us have been sitting here for a good half hour and the waiters are starting to hover around us like a flock of under-fed vultures. With guitarist Daniel fantasising loudly about the plate of rabbit and chips waiting for him at home, we decide to head off.

Earlier on, the boys mentioned that while they don’t want to eliminate the possibility of commercial success, what they do is art for art’s sake, more for the love of invigorating the somewhat bland Maltese music scene than anything else. This being said, there is little to no doubt that these guys will go a long way. And judging by the success they’ve had so far, pretty quickly too.

insiteronline.com

35

bariona lou ghirlando

a Christmas play for

believers and non-believers

Photography patrick genovese

“

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B

ariona” is Sartre’s first play, a work that does not sit comfortably with the rest of his works. Here his atheism grapples with the element of hope that is born with the coming of Christ and touches upon the mystery of humanity. In this play, which is a Christmas play for believers and non-believers, the spotlight is turned away from a narration of the events through which Christ came into the world.

Rather, the central characters are ordinary people, struggling with their human existence, reacting to the news of the birth of the Messiah.

Bariona, a village chief, loses all hope for a more prosperous future and condemns his people to extermination, as his own wife announces her first pregnancy. Against this backdrop of despair, an angel brings them news of the birth of Christ. This news becomes the lifeline for villagers who want to perpetuate life against all odds, and for parents who continue to want to bring children into the world.

The context provides a source of hope amidst desperate circumstances. Sartre wrote this play during his time as a prisoner of war in 1940. It was originally performed by himself together with his fellow inmates. The lack of freedom implicit in his situation is echoed in the play by references to the oppressive rule of the Romans at the time of the birth of Christ. In the midst of this, the protagonist, played by Philip Leone-Ganado, is isolated in his search for inner truth, yet he is able to grow and reach spiritual and philosophical enlightenment. Freedom becomes an internal process, rather than one determined by external social circumstances. The theme of the relationship between entrapment and hope is central to the play, and it is in this light that the play remains a relevant piece of theatre to us living in the 21st century – one that is relevant to Christians and non-Christians alike.

Theatrencore’s production of ‘Bariona’ will be performed at St James Cavalier on December 3, 4, and 5 at 8pm. Directed by Tyrone Grima, the cast includes: Philip Leone-Ganado, Joe Pace, Mik Pisani, Nadine Genovese, Lou Ghirlando, David Chircop, Claudio Carta, Karl Cassar, Brian Gauci, Erin Stewart Tanti, Marvic Doughty, Sarah Camilleri, and Franco Rizzo. Tickets can be obtained from St James Cavalier by calling 21223216, or online by visiting their website www.sjcav.org. Concessions for students are available, and tickets can be purchased using the Smartcard.

Theatrencore will also be collaborating with the Carmelite Institute in Mdina for an event designed particularly to

The Insiter • December 2010

engage students of philosophy, psychology, theology, spirituality and the arts, although all students are welcome. This will include an adapted version of the play together with a seminar focusing on the theatrical framing of the theme of blindness. The seminar will be chaired by Rev. Dr Charlo’ Camilleri, and confirmed speakers include Dr Angele Licari, Rev. Dr Rene Camilleri, and Caldon Mercieca, to provide a platform for dialogue between speakers from the relevant disciplines, and of different beliefs. The event will take place at the Carmelite Institute, Carmelite Priory, Mdina on December 14 at 6.30pm. Due to limited space, reservations will be a must. For more information please contact the institute at carmeliteinstitute@gmail.com, or Theatrencore at theatrencore@gmail.com.

The production of “Bariona” is being supported by the Malta Arts Fund.

culture

QUote/unquote a theatrical justification for the freedoms

This December, Stewsoft Theatre Company, the new company behind Erin Stewart Tanti’s controversial play ‘C&C’, will be collaborating with the Front Against Censorship to host a one-off theatrical event as part of Human Rights Week 2010, which is taking place on the University Campus. “quote/unquote” – a theatrical justification for the freedoms” – is essentially a theatrical documentary of sorts, aimed at examining issues which are locally considered as taboo, by illustrating the argument for the freedoms and drawing from literary examples from the past to reflect present issues and question the implications these may have in the future.

Co-ordinated by Erin Stewart Tanti, whose recent works include the award-winning, stage adaptation of Antoine Cassar’s ‘Passaport’, “quote/unquote” will feature works by long-established and highly respected authors, such as Marlowe, and Wilde, [and even] extracts from the Gospels with contemporary, upcoming local writers and actors such as Narcy Calamatta, Alex Vella Gera, Antoine Cassar, Philip Leone-Ganado, Erin Stewart Tanti, and Marta Vella.

The event is going to take place on December 10 at 2:00pm, at the Common Room of the University of Malta Student House.

when magic comes to life

On November 18, on the occasion of the Bay Street Complex’s tenth anniversary, a theatre group presented ‘Darba Waħda…’ an original play written and directed by University student and news reporter Kristabell Catania.

Kristabell has always fostered a love of writing, particularly for the theatre. ‘Darba Waħda…’ is her second play.

The fairytale recounts the adventures of Princess Margerita and Prince Fillipu. In their magical world, love conquers evil. The main premise of the play is that life can indeed be magical for those of us who believe in their dreams and pursue them tirelessly.

The production took the form of an interactive drama, a theatrical style which is relatively new to the local theatre scene (save for Christmas Pantos, of course!). The colourful scenery and costumes, (which were) designed by Kristabell herself, enhanced the experience,

especially for children who entered the village where the magical episodes unfolded.

The full cast consisted of: Sarah Cremona, Martha Debono, Kathleen Farrugia, Lorna Fiorini, Yasmine Hamilton, Leander Schembri, Maria Therese Scerri, and Josef Tabone, who was also responsible for the choreography.

Through the creative efforts of these enthusiastic young thespians, theatre in Malta can continue to flourish and strive towards a promising future.

insiteronline.com

37

andrew galea

A light-hearted whodunnit

photography jacob sammut carabez (pearl works)

A review of the play ‘Death of a Doornail’, by Lee Mueller, which was presented by the MADC at the Manoel Theatre on October 30 and 31.

38

Imagine the board game ‘Cluedo’, transfer it to a stage, and you’ll get a good idea of what MADC’s latest offering, ‘Death of a Doornail’, is all about. Jointly directed by Pia Zammit and Coryse Borg, the piece, a whodunnit, clearly aims to be an entertaining, light-hearted murder mystery play for Halloween, and for the most part, it succeeds in doing so.

The play commences with an atmospheric dimming of lights, and the creepy patter of rain and rumble of thunder.

It centres on a family’s quest to discover who murdered Mr Doornail, in what is a highly amusing ensemble piece, albeit brought to life more by dint of the actors’ energetic performances than the script itself, which was predictable at the best of times and completely outdated.

Nathan Brimmer set the tone, playing a commendably dark, comical host aptly eliciting audience response and participation - and a decent measure of it was required without letting it over-ride the play itself, which is a trap that one might easily fall into.

Brimmer was not the only actor subscribing to a definite archetype. The script laid the templates for the actors to follow, and each

The Insiter • December 2010

character was a distinct caricature of “the usual suspects.”

I felt that some achieved this effect better than others, with the discrepancies between the stronger and weaker performances being quite considerable.

Kate De Cesare, Jo Caruana and Colin Fitz stuck out, giving good, consistent depictions of the house-maid, the Valley-of-the-Dolls blonde ditz, and the Soprano-like gangster respectively. Their performances were helped by the fact that they were the only members of the cast who maintained their strong Yorkshire, American, and Mafioso accents respectively, especially so since it was accents that proved to be one of the (by now all-too-familiar) problems with the production, and an issue that the directors might have paid a little more attention to.

The aforementioned performances contrasted starkly, for example, with the cousin and daughter of the murdered Doornail (played by Daphne Ann Grech and Alexandra Camilleri Warne) who, while giving spirited performances, were more Sliema than posh toff British as their roles called for, in both accent and demeanour. The same applies to Katherine Brown’s portrayal of the bitter ex-wife, who was at times American and others British.

Ms Zammit and Ms Borg made pretty fair casting choices, I felt, and their direction was subtle boarding on the inconspicuous. Perhaps the fact that no one character seemed to take the foreground was to their credit, as it encouraged the cast to work together. It’s a shame that some actors seemed more focused on remembering their lines than they did actually acting, which made their presence fade into the background. Consequently, the tone was sometimes am-dram, at others more professional, although for the most part it was more the latter. All actors excelled at giving quick, imaginative, and witty responses to probing audience questions at the given time, making it a delight to interact with them.

Notable too was the humorous dead-pan delivery by Philip Leone-Ganado as Inspector Bukowski from “the front yard”, and funny interjections by Krista Paris as the audience member who wanted a karaoke night but, like the rest of the audience, got precisely what ‘Death of a Doornail’ promised to provide: good fun and a great atmosphere on a Halloween night.

culture

andrew galea

Moving Through Limbo

A review of the play ‘Revenance’, by Malcolm Galea, which was presented at the MITP on November 12-14 and 19-21.

The choice of death as the subject matter for his new play ‘Revenance’, a subject that has reverberated throughout humanity’s consciousness since the dawn of time, inspiring many a writer and an artist, is indicative of a certain urge on the part of Malcolm Galea to branch off from slightly lighter stage material into something darker.

Death is of course as profound a subject matter as one could ever have, and it provides the backdrop against which Mr Galea could attempt to thrash out some of his own personal demons through the character of Magnus Coffinkey.

Coffinkey’s body is trapped under a bell, and his soul is therefore stuck in a sort of limbo.

Perhaps parallels can be drawn between Coffinkey’s own tortured soul in the land of souls, and the playwright’s venture into slightly personal, intimate writing waters. To that end, Mr Galea reveals a certain evolution in his writing, a maturity perhaps, proceeding from new life experiences of his own.

The set was atmospheric, dark and brooding, reminiscent of the Phantom of the Opera’s lair, or a gothic castle, replete with skulls, candles and an organist. The shadowpuppetry was initially a very entertaining point, but became slightly overstayed. The ever-present darkness, which accounted for much of the set, meant that the focus was principally on the acting, which seemed to be neither here nor there, falling short of the full energy the roles required.

The character ‘Death’, played by Boris Cezek, had the funniest lines, but overall his acting was understated and he often appeared to throw those lines away. Jean-Pierre Agius’s transvestite ‘Mastema’ was more self-conscious than

flamboyant, uncertain of his high heels as much as of what he was supposed to be doing. Claire Bonello’s Eurydice was sufficiently wide-eyed and innocent, if a little non-committal about who her character was, and Malcolm Galea himself seemed slightly reserved about exposing himself through a character that clearly came from somewhere very close to his heart. In truth, a lot of the uncertainty arises, one suspects, from too brief a rehearsal period and too little direction.

At times, one ran the risk of being left behind by the plot, if one was not sufficiently familiar with the Greek classics. The staple of a good work, one might argue, is that is accessible to the audience regardless of their educational background. The extended poetry, while designed to provide the word-play necessary for some of the jokes - which became slightly predictable - would have worked far better had it not been quite obviously the same person who played Coffinkey telling us about Coffinkey’s death, and had as much importance been given to the emotional dimension of the characters.

Malcolm Galea’s foray into philosophical and personal musings might have been well complemented by his taking some stylistic risks as well. One was left with the nagging feeling that, had this been revised, re-worked, and rehearsed a few more times, it could have been a lot stronger and a lot more moving, as well as being funnier. Still, I look forward to watching future productions by all involved in this one, and certainly to bearing witness to Malcolm Galea’s growth as a local writer with infinite potential.

insiteronline.com

39

claire grima

Book Reviews

Every month, a different student shares their views on their recent reads.

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The Insiter • December 2010

"Can You Keep a Secret?", by Sophie Kinsella, is a light-hearted and entertaining novel which revolves around Emma Corrigan, a marketing assistant at the multinational company Panther Corporation. Her first business trip was meant to change her life by leading to a promotion, and thus raising Emma’s opinion of herself and proving to Kerry, her obnoxious and pretentious cousin, that she too was capable of success. However, things did not go as planned. All that Emma could do was fly back home. Unfortunately, she was terrified of flying. While the plane was experiencing some heavy turbulence (and she thought was about to die) she revealed all her secrets to the stranger sitting next to her. Later, Emma consoled herself with the thought that she would never meet this stranger again, and that secrets such as when she lost her virginity and how she waters her annoying colleague’s

spider plant with orange juice will not be revealed. Imagine Emma’s surprise and horror when this "stranger" turned out to be Jack Harper, the owner of the company she was working for. Her boss knew all her little secrets. The question was, would he be able to keep her secrets?

With her trademark humour and sharp wit, Kinsella succeeds in portraying this situation as a blessing in disguise.

This novel is a must-read, and in my opinion it is best enjoyed after a long day at university, when there’s nothing better than curling up on the sofa and having a good laugh.

"The Crimson Petal and the White" is a novel by Michael Faber. The leading character is introduced as follows: “My name is Sugar, I am what you would call a Fallen Woman, but I assure you I did not fall, I was pushed.” Mrs Castaway, Sugar’s mother, was responsible for “pushing” Sugar into prostitution. Despite the industry Sugar was immersed in, she was a clean, well-read and immaculately dressed young woman. Sugar’s reputation as a passionate lover and as a girl who submits to what other girls refuse, preceded her in London, and she consequently had the possibility of choosing her lovers.

This reputation led William Rackham, the heir of Rackham Perfumeries, to seek Sugar so that she would fulfill his sexual desires. William fell under Sugar’s intoxicating spell and this made him so jealous of Sugar’s other lovers that he bought

an apartment away from the brothel and made Sugar his mistress. Rackham was unhappily married to his beautiful wife, Agnes, whom a doctor had diagnosed as being mad. He also had a child, Sophie, who was neglected and unloved.

Faber carefully illustrates how Sugar and Sophie became friends, how Agnes Rackham was assigned to be Sugar’s guardian angel in order to watch over her, and more importantly how William Rackham was pushed out of the picture.

Described as the “first great 19th century novel of the 21st century”, and as a “psycho-sexual-science-fiction novel”, "The Crimson Petal and the White" is undoubtedly a masterpiece and the only problem with this book is putting it down and going on with one’s daily life.

culture

john farrugia

erasmus diary

This month’s Erasmus Diary takes us to John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin in Poland. The author is reading for a BA (Hons) in Philosophy.

A few months back, I decided to take the leap and embark on the Erasmus experience. I didn’t regret this decision. Shortly after landing in Poland, I stepped out into the cold weather and caught the correct bus to my temporary home (which was a long process due to all the road signs being composed of strange words with hardly intelligible characters). I eventually found the university.

During my first day at the university, I met other Erasmus students who were facing the same feat as myself.

Lidia, the Erasmus coordinator, began explaining the procedures to us. There was yet more paperwork to deal with. It’s all part of the Erasmus package, and well worth the effort.

We had a Polish lunch together. The cook demonstrated the preparation of "pjerogi", a traditional polish dish, which consists of dumplings filled with cabbage, meat, mushrooms, or other fillings.

During this lunch, the other Erasmus students and I exchanged contact details in order to be able to keep in touch.

However, when I arrived at my flat I found that there was no internet, and so I remained pretty much isolated from the rest of the world. A new apartment brings with it many joys and disappointments. My fellow students and I met up again for a trip to Kazimierz , a village for artists. After that, the intellectual adventure began. Once I’d found the relevant lecture rooms, I embarked on the task of understanding exactly how I will be assessed and when, and whether the amount of credits I have corresponds to the amount of credits I need. Coupled with the language barrier, this was quite a challenge.

What makes Erasmus such a success? I think it’s the fact

that there’s a varied experience to be savoured. While studying in a foreign university, there’s a lot more at stake, and a lot more to absorb. This may be a source of stress for some Erasmus students until they manage to integrate into the different culture. Through this process of integration, one grows and matures. I consider myself to be quite reslient and yet I admit that having someone there to offer assistance really did help me to get things settled.

I’m not the only one who’s got a lot of things on my plate at the moment. Most of my Erasmus companions are in the same situation as I am. We‘re waiting to find out what will become of us during this semester. This may be the cause of some stress which I’m experiencing, until I find out where I’ll be settling, what routine I’ll be following, and when I shall be attending my classes. This situation might go on for another two weeks or so. Nothing will be more soothing than knowing that I’ve settled in and belong at the university, not only on paper, but also in the way I feel.

The will to know and experience more is the drive behind participating in Erasmus programmes. This thirst for learning and for knowledge, not in the sense of locking oneself away from the world to study, but in going out into the world and integrating with others, is the true learning experience. Here, I’m in a whole new world, with new people, new means of getting around, and, in my case, a different language ( this proved quite frustrating until I got used to it, which took longer than I thought).

As the second week begins, I‘m already settling in well.

This place is starting to feel more like home; I can find my way around and I’m behaving less like a visitor and more like a Polish citizen.

insiteronline.com

41

darren chetcuti vella

promises of

yesteryear A mid-term analysis of KSU’s performance over the current Executive Board’s first six months in office.

Allow me to take you back to last Spring, when the University of Malta witnessed the annual round of ksu elections. Two opposing camps sprung up, candidates were nominated, and the battle lines were drawn. ‘Moviment Indipendenti’ (mi) lobbied for votes through their corner meetings. ‘Studenti Demokristjani Maltin’ (sdm) hosted a large-scale and highly strategic electoral campaign. Votes were cast and, unsurprisingly, sdm emerged victorious and subsequently took office for another twelve months.

Six months have passed and life on campus has gone back to normal. However, in the ksu office, the month of December marks an important milestone. It is an indication that half of the current Executive Board’s term in office is already over. So it is the correct moment to carry out a mid-term analysis and check on the progress they’ve made on their promises.

A total of 53 proposals are listed in the sdm electoral manifesto, with the general theme being Għalik (“For You”).

The proposals are sub-divided according to the commissions which are responsible for their implementation. The administration, headed by Carl Grech, put forward 13 proposals; the education commission presented 12 proposals; the social policy commission presented 10 proposals; and the international office and the culture and entertainment commission presented 9 proposals each.

THE Ksu ADMINISTRATION Mid-Term Rating Of 55% Goals Reached: Computers have been installed in every office in Students’ House in order to facilitate the function of the student organisations occupying them. ksu has also recently installed a digital notice board within Students’ House, as a medium through which to provide a constant up-to-date flow of information. The ksu Common Room has been re-painted and re-furnished as promised. However, I seriously believe this shouldn’t have cost €11,000, which is more than what ksu is prepared to fork out for the Resources Fund (€10,000), and more than double what it has allocated to the Student Organisations Fund (€5,000). The “eventful Freshers’ Week” was put together as usual. Needless to say, it has become standard procedure to host an open-air market during the first week of university. This enables students to shop for their stationery, order a pretty laptop, and enrol in one or two student organisations.

It goes without saying that the major proposals includ-

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The Insiter • December 2010

ed in the sdm manifesto for the administration of ksu are those regarding the allocation of a New Resources Fund, the strengthening of the Student Opportunity Fund, and the launching of the Student Organisations Fund, which collectively aim to grant circa €25,000 to students and student organisations. ksu did embark on the implementation of such proposals and the New Resources Fund and the Student Opportunity Funds have been successfully launched.

The respective boards have been appointed and applications were received last month (November 2010).

Proposals awaiting implementation: sdm promised to study the possibility of installing photovoltaic cells, a project that does not seem to have materialised.

EDUCATION: Mid-Term Rating of 65% Goals Reached: The education commission has fulfilled its promise to monitor the new Higher Education Act and, in a meeting with the Education Minister, it managed to put forward its own proposals.

More extra-curricular courses were introduced via DegreePlus, meaning that more students are likely to be interested in participating.

The famous “You Complain, You Gain” system is still in existence, though how many complaints are received and dealt with is unknown. Throughout the past six months, the education commission has clearly been busy fulfilling its promise to provide information regarding scholarships on a regular basis. ensuring a wide range of possibilities corresponding to the courses offered at the University of Malta.

Pending Proposals: sdm had promised to update the Students’ Charter. I’m sure this would go down well with all student bodies. It is imperative to ensure that our Students’ Charter remains up-to-date and accurately reflects our current needs while remaining a credible point of reference.

SPECIAL REPORT SOCIAL POLICY: Mid-Term Rating of 65% Goals Reached: The social policy commission has striven to ensure a constant flow of activity on campus. The ksu environmental fair generated positive interest from an overwhelming majority of student organisations, as activities concluded with every student organisation planting a tree in Wied Ghollieqa. In July, the social policy commission organized the faculty convention in the foyer of Sir Temi Zammit Hall during the admission meetings for prospective university students. For the seventh consecutive year, ksu teamed up with aisec to host the Careers’ Convention, which this year encompassed different fields of employment, therefore serving as a showcase for the contemporary job scene.

Unfortunately, the stalls did not attract a significant number of students.

Proposals awaiting implementation: SDM proposed in its electoral manifesto a Student Organisation Handbook. If it were to be implemented, this would be an excellent tool, as it would ensure the continuation and feasibility of the many student bodies present on campus. The social policy commission also promised to express its commitment towards a holistic approach to students’ health and counselling services, and to organise a campaign against drug consumption. There are many ways in which ksu could achieve this. Surely the most successful would be a soft approach to the aforementioned issues due to their sensitive nature. Ample information has already been dished out from a whole spectrum of organisations over the years, and students have reached a stage where they are simply ignoring the little leaflets explaining pros and cons.

INTERNATIONAL: Mid-Term Rating of 60%

The international commission has been responsible for implementing the buddy system. At least within the Arts Faculty, this has been a failure. The interest from the Maltese student population within the Arts faculty has been close to non-existent, with many students abandoning the idea by the end of the welcome tour.

Erasmus Information days, One World Fair, and the Cuisine Night organised by the International commission have become regular fixtures in the ksu calendar, some of which can be pivotal for the immediate integration of visiting students.

CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT: Mid-Term Rating of 70% A good number of proposals included in the sdm manifesto have already been carried out by the culture and entertainment office.

The culture and entertainment office did demonstrate a certain degree of commitment towards the development of artistic capabilities. One cannot say that their electoral promise was broken. The annual singers and songwriters contest was organised in conjunction with asa (the Arts Students Organisation), along with a photography exhibition. This is a positive move in itself as it enhances the input of student organisations that are continuously on the look out to provide their members with opportunities to exhibit their talents. However, I cannot understand why theatre is constantly left out of the equation, given that the culture and entertainment office is seeking to push forward artistic talents.

The participation of the commission in the Euromilano 2010 was tainted by a feud with musc (Malta University Sports Club), even though no electoral promise was broken because they did participate after all. However, the next time round, things should be coordinated better. Had they first consulted with musc about their plans, the commission could have easily set up one delegation to avoid any unnecessary competition. Why should the culture and entertainment commission have difficulty collaborating with a student organisation, when it should be a common practice for ksu to do so?

insiteronline.com

43

Moving up chris bergedahl

PHOTOGRAPHY romina tolu, Domenic aquilina

the ladder

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National Rugby Team member Matthew Camilleri spoke to The Insiter about his achievements and the challenges of being truly committed to a sport.

W

hile sitting in the quaint Japanese Garden, I eagerly await the arrival of my first ever interviewee. I am expecting one of the youngest members on the National Rugby Team, Matt Camilleri. I don’t know who to expect, until a well built young man approaches me and say, “You wouldn’t happen to be Chris, would you?”

Right from the start, Matthew presents himself as an eager, dedicated, and very ambitious young man. As we sit conversing under the sun, he explains to me how he was initiated into the game. “Up until the age of thirteen, I was trying all sorts of sports, however Steve Cilia (the team physiotherapist), a family friend, suggested that I take up rugby. I joined "Stompers" and was thrown in at the deep end, but I knew from the beginning that I was going to love it.”

Being the youngest member of the team, and going straight into contact rugby, makes his achievements all the

The Insiter • December 2010

more impressive. His quick rise through the ranks earned him a national call up last year, which he describes as his “greatest moment”. Juggling university, training, and competitive games six times a week is an enormous task, and must require a great deal of dedication. In fact, he emphasizes that he has had to become a lot more economical with his time. “Nowadays, I cannot just throw away two hours of free periods to laze around and chat. I need to use up this time wisely to get some studying in, as one doesn’t want to study upon arriving home at 11pm after a hard training session. I have to be very careful with my time if I don’t want to fall behind.”

His dedication is encouraging. He admits that the flexible University timetable has allowed him to find more free time compared to Sixth Form, when the lecture schedule was very rigid. Moving on, I ask how his professional rugby

Sport I always want to achieve. My team has become like a family to me. When I joined, they took me in and helped me in all aspects of my game. career and strict training regime affect his social life.

“All in all, I believe that as long as I maintain a balance in my life, I can still enjoy all its pleasures. Yes, there are occasions when I must forego going out with my friends on a Friday night, especially with games the next morning. This discipline is also reinforced when we travel with the team abroad. The level of professionalism is extremely high, and after going through all the pressure of selection, we need to be at our physical and mental peak.” He proceeds to tell me that even diets are strictly controlled around match time.

One thing makes me wonder: what fuels such determination? Matthew’s dedication and love for his sport are clear, as he smirks and tells me, “I always want to achieve.

My team has become like a family to me. When I joined, they took me in and helped in me in all aspects of my game.

Once you reach national level, a lot of pride goes into it.

Stepping out in front of 3,000 fans is a real motivation, and it makes you want to perform well for your nation. We do it out of love for our sport and our country.”

I nod in silent agreement; a mutual understanding be-

tween two sportsmen. Matthew has been successful in his career, winning three league titles and four Ray Elliot Cups with his team. He is no longer a rookie, despite his young age. I make a gesture towards a small gash on his face, asking whether it was a result of rugby. He laughs it off, saying, “People have the wrong impression about the violence involved in rugby. In fact, I got this gash from playing football, and to be honest I think I’ve had more football-related injuries than I’ve had from rugby!”

I prompt Matthew for a brief insight as to where he sees the local sport going. His wish is to see rugby develop and grow at grassroots level, to see more youths entering the game, more teams, and more competition. “We are improving all the time,” he explains, “and we are going to continue climbing the international ladder. Sure, we may not ever make it to the 6 Nations, but we can still make our country proud and place somewhere on the international scene.”

To conclude, he speaks a bit about his upcoming game against Latvia on November 6. His aim is to rally more Maltese support to help push the team. “Every little helps!” he grins. After almost an hour of chatting, I leave the garden much more knowledgeable about the demands of the sport.

Dedicated young men like Matt who are willing to put their sport first, without pay, are the future of Maltese rugby. He is a true sportsman, in its purest sense.

And hey, who knows, watch out Johnny Wilkinson!

insiteronline.com

45

1965

Land Rover Series 2A

1984

Land Rover 90 (Defender)

1987

Range Rover Classic

1989

Land Rover Discovery 1

mark mallia

the best 4x4xFAR

Since the mid 20th century, the Land Rover car manufacturer has enjoyed continuous success, and developed into a brand including a whole range of four wheel drive vehicles. It is the second oldest four wheel drive brand in the world.

Aesthetics is the philosophy of the nature of beauty, art, and originality. For as long as he has existed, man has built tools to make his life easier, and aesthetic considerations, although not his primary concern, are evident in his creations.

Humans cannot help but feel attracted to beautiful things.

What is it that inspires people to spend so much money on something whose sole purpose is getting them from A to B? The answer: the feel good factor.

Land Rover managed to make their vehicles aesthetically pleasing way back in 1948.

It all began in the Land Rover headquarters in Gaydon (uk), where Land Rover produced what would later on be called the “best four by four by far”. What made this vehicle so great was not its body work, but the great power that it could unleash. Land Rover produced a vehicle that could be driven where no vehicle had ever been driven before.

What distinguished Land Rover from the rest of the motor manufacturers at the time was that they only produced one type of vehicle. Having been in production for more then sixty years and having been owned by large, successful companies such as the Rover Company, bmw, and Ford, Land Rover has specialized and dedicated a lot of time to constantly improving and upgrading its vehicles.

The first four by four vehicle produced by Land Rover was a wwii war-jeep inspired utility vehicle. The iconic ve-

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The Insiter • December 2010

hicle has undergone only minor changes over time, primarily front radiator grill reconstruction to accommodate its engine upgrades, interior redesigning, and a few tweaks here and there that have resulted in the latest version which we know today as the Defender. Due to the fact that it’s not too difficult or expensive to keep it in tip-top condition, and that it’s easy to refit and upgrade with newer and better Land Rover parts, many of these early Land Rover Series vehicles still roam the streets today. Another advantage of these vehicles is their unibody structure; this means that the whole body is made up of panels and sub-assemblies that can be simply bolted together. Each panel can be disassembled and reassembled using only hand tools, hence making it possible for enthusiasts to strip it down to its chassis and build it back up ( those who are not qualified shouldn’t try this at home.) They can easily keep their Landy up and running, looking stylish, and customized just the way they want it.

Originally, the only vehicles Land Rover manufactured were the series I, the series II, and the series IIA vehicles, which all had the same general shape . In 1970, the almighty Range Rover was introduced. Since the addition of other vehicles to the Land Rover range, the Land Rover series vehicles have been renamed the ninety and

MOTORING 2005

one- ten vehicles (referring the length of their wheelbase), and the latest versions are known as Defenders. Unlike the all-purpose beasts that the Land Rover Series I and II were, the Range Rover is a classy, sophisticated, and better looking four wheeler. The Range Rover Classic is a large and powerful four by four vehicle. Not only does it look good, but it has the perfect balance between raw power and luxurious commodity. After its release, Land Rover continued to venture into the world of luxurious four by fours, later on also introducing newer models: namely the Discovery and the Freelander. Land Rover has worked hard on its series of

2007

2011

Range Rover ‘Vogue’

Range Rover Evoque

luxurious suvs, releasing newer versions, always upgrading them, and most noticeably making them more luxurious by including dashboards with a wooden finish, leather upholstery, lcd screens, and other fancy gadgets.

It is safe to say that an impressively high percentage of the Land Rover models that have been released are still running safely today, either testing their tyres on some off-road terrain, or cruising through our roads. With a Land Rover, you can rest assured that you’ll find the right gear for the job.

Young instructors Individual attention Pick-up from anywhere Pick-up on time Modern cars Full dual controls Air conditioned Manual & automatic

7777 2020 info@skyms.com.mt www.skyms.com.mt

design: www.ideasoftmalta.com

Land Rover Discovery 3

serviced by PIT STOP Service Complex, Attard

2002

Land Rover Freelander 1

terms and conditions apply

All new students receive our starter pack which includes Driving Theory Test CD & a free lesson.