The Insiter - Freshers' Edition - October 2011 by Insite – The Student Media Organisation

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THE INSITER • OCTOBER 2010

9/30/2011 8:01:51 PM

EDITOR:

Emma Grech HEAD OF DESIGN:

Isabel Micallef

EDITORIAL

ILLUSTRATORS:

Daniela Attard, Trudy Gera HEAD OF PHOTOGRAPHY:

Chris Vella

FASHION PHOTOGRAPHER:

Martha Micallef MEDIA OFFICER:

Philip Leone Ganado SALES AND MARKETING:

Maria Anthea Attard CONTRIBUTORS:

Albert Camilleri, Annabel Hili, Claire Bonello, Diane Brincat, Deo Falzon, Emma Grech, Hillary Briffa, Isabelle Camilleri, Joelene Attard, Julian Caruana, Jonathan Falzon, Karl Agius, Mickey Gauci, Dr Michelle Gialanze, Nathan Adams, Noel Camilleri, Paul Vella, Ramon Bonnett-Sladden, Ryan Mercieca, Thomas Bugeja, Warren Sammut, SPECIAL THANKS:

Joe Friggieri COVER:

The Insiter is published ten times a year by Insite – The Student Media Organisation and is distributed free on campus.

CORRESPONDENCE:

insite - the student media organisation university of malta msida, msd 2 0 8 0 SALES & MARKETING:

sales@insiter.org.mt E-MAIL:

print@insite.org.mt

Dear Reader, I would like to start off my first editorial (ever), by penning a proverbial toast to a brand New Year. A New Scholastic Year, that is. This edition of The Insiter that sits in your hands at this precise moment is always and forever dedicated particularly, indirectly, directly (or however you choose to see it), to all University students. But this month, a special emphasis falls upon you who have just completed A-levels, or have taken a gap year after sixth form; or hey, perhaps you’ve decided to indulge in the niceties of being a Universitarian whilst in your forties – it doesn’t matter. You’re a freshman. And you deserve a warm welcome. This Edition is jam-packed with fun stuff, cultural stuff, educational stuff, and all kinds of stuff to satisfy everyone’s individual palate. You’ll find an entertaining musical study of the Top 5 Albums of this year; a Personality of the Month, a news analysis that brings the Libyan uprising to the fore, loads of information on student organisations, and last but not least, a bunch of other excellently-written pieces that warrant a very rewarding distraction indeed. But backtracking to the original theme of this Editorial – Fresher’s Week, Freshmen, and fresh starts. You don’t really have to be a freshman to take it all in. We could all do with new beginnings, every once in a while. That is why school’s out in June and back in October – because we need a break, and we need to start anew. Being Editor is something completely novel to me. It’s hard work, I have been told that it gets crazy sometimes; but it’s with a different, holistic vision that I look to the coming scholastic year.

WEBSITE:

insiteronline.com

As Semisonic once wisely (or not so wisely) sung: “Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end”. Just think of your sixth form days. They were once a new beginning. But now it’s time to turn over a new leaf. It may be tough at first, but sooner rather than later, you’ll be just about to graduate and wishing you were still walking through Quad for the very first time.

When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it.

Enjoy the Edition, and lastly, enjoy Fresher’s Week!

CONTENTS 4

Campus Map

News

8 LIBYA ANALYSIS

Gain employability skills...Get Real!

FRESHERS’ WEEK What to do, what to expect.

Noel Camilleri investigates the ongoing Libya crisis

Vox Pop

The students’ voice

ELSA Malta law review

30 FASHION T-Time

38 POTM

Philosopher, poet,playwright

Book reviews

Film reviews

October 2011 events

No parking!

GUG

The Claire Chronicles

‘Hati Hati, Kamu Mati’

Strummin’ Home

JEF

Sustainable Tourism

Top 5 albums of 2011

Smartphone 101

Which organisation?

Students’ Amber Nectar

Joan Miro:The ladder of escape

The Ford Fiesta

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the

CAMPUS MAP FINALLY, MY TIMETABLE AND MY CAMPUS MAP ARE SPEAKING THE SAME LANGUAGE

CP1

HUM.A

HUM.B

LT1 Into: San Gwann tal-Gharghar Str.

CP2

ALT

BEN NLH

OH MDT

CP7

ELT

LT2

(Through Rural Road)

Going: San Gwann, Kappara...

MP IT HSBC

CHB

TESPI EDRC

SLT

STZH

CLR

MEDAC

CP3

CP5 GW

CP4 QUAD

HSBC ATM

Into: Mater Dei Hospital

CP5 BOV

CP6

Into: Dun Karm Strt. Going: Valletta, Msida (Skatepark), Qormi...

Into: Dun Karm Str. Going: Valletta, Msida (Skatepark), Qormi...

Into: Dun Karm Str. Going: Iklin, Mosta, Naxxar...

GW MEDAC

EDRC

MAP THEO CACHIA

EG SG CP1 CP2 CP3 CP4 CP5 CP6 CP7 CP8

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WEST GATE (MAIN ENTRANCE) EAST GATE (SPORTS COMPLEX ENTRANCE) SOUTH GATE (OLD MAIN ENTRANCE) CAR PARK 1 CAR PARK 2 (MATHS DEPARTMENT) CAR PARK 3 CAR PARK 4 (QUAD) CAR PARK 5 (GATEWAY/ADMINISTRATION PARKING) CAR PARK 6 (MAIN PARKING AREA) CAR PARK 7 CAR PARK 8 (SPORTS COMPLEX ROUNDABOUT) UNIVERSITY BUS TERMINUS

STZH

ALT BEN NLH OH MDT HUM.A

HUM.B

ALR PLR ARU LC

GATEWAY BUILDING MED. ACADEMY OF DIPMLOMATIC STUDIES EUROPEAN DOCUMENTATION & RESEARCH CENTRE SIR TEMI ZAMMIT HALL ARTS LECTURE THEATRE BUILT ENVIRONMENT NEW LECTURE HALL OLD HUMANITIES MEDITERRANEAN INSTITUTE HUMANITIES A (LAWS, THEOLOGY, CRIMINOLOGY) HUMANITIES B (FACULTY OF ECONOMICS, MANAGEMENT & ACCOUNTS) ANATOMY LECTURE ROOM PHYSIOLOGY LECTURE ROOM ALLIED RESEARCH UNIT DUN MIKIEL XERRI LECTURE CENTRE

THE INSITER • OCTOBER 2010

9/30/2011 8:02:11 PM

LEGEND

ELT

Into: M.T. Spinelli Str. Going: Gzira, Sliema, St. Julians...

Regi onal Road Over pass

MUSC

MP PLR CHB ALR

ARU

CLR CP3

CP8

Regi onal Road Over pass

WALKWAYS/PAVED OUTDOOR AREAS ROADS/VEHICULAR ACCESS ACADEMIC BUILDINGS SERVICES/FACILITIES/LANDMARKS TRANSPORT RELATED

BUILDINGS BUILDINGS (UNDER CONSTRUCTION) LANDSCAPED AREAS (ON CAMPUS) LANDSCAPED AREAS (OFF CAMPUS) WATER

CP8

Into: Edgar Bernard Str. Going: Gzira, Sliema, St. Julians...

Into: Dun Karm Str. Going: Valletta, Msida (Skatepark), Qormi...

ARVID PARDO MONUMENT ADMINISTRATION BUILDING TESPI GREEK THEATRE GARDENS / OUTDOOR STUDY AREAS HSBC BRANCH HSBC ATM BOV BRANCH & ATM STUDENT HOUSE (STUDENT ORG. OFFICES, COMMON ROOM) CANTEEN * OUTSIDE ENTITIES (MELITA, iCENTRE, PRINT XPRESS, AGENDA, NSTS) QUADRANGLE UNIVERSITY CHAPLAINCY CHILDREN’S AREA (IT-TAJRA PLAYSCHOOL) MALTA UNIVERSITY SPORTS CLUB NATIONAL POOL & FITNESS CENTRE SPORTS HALL FOOTBALL PITCH PICNIC TABLES

TESPI

LT1 LT2 SLT CHB CLR EB EW ELT MP CB IT

LECTURE THEATRE 1 (ERIN SERRACINO INGLOTT HALL) LECTURE THEATRE 2 (FRANCIS EBEJER HALL) SCIENCE LECTURE THEATRE CHEMISTRY BUILDING CHEMISTRY LECTURE THEATRE ENGINEERING BUILDING ENGINEERING WORKSHOP ENGINEERING LECTURE THEATRE MATHS & PHYSICS DEPT. COMPUTER BUILDING IT SERVICES BUILDING UNIVERSITY LIBRARY FACULTY OF ICT (UNDER CONSTRUCTION) IT SERVICES BUILDING (UNDER CONSTRUCTION)

HSBC

HSBC ATM

BOV

QUAD

MUSC

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A NEW SCHOLASTIC YEAR, A NEW CYCLE. INSITE

nsite, the Student Media Organisation, held its first Information & Recruitment meeting for the new scholastic year 2011 – 2012 on the 29th August 2011. The event was held at the KSU Common Room in Students’ House at 17.30hrs. Following a brief history of the organisation so far, the event allowed the Insite Executive and Media board members to present themselves, as well as the internal workings of their respective sections to the students present. Contrary to previous years, most of the attendees are already following a course at The University of Malta and showed a great interest in specific areas within the Insite infrastructure. Many of these students have already been involved in the creation of the first edition of The Insiter. Following the Information Meeting, Insite will also be holding a number of shout-outs during the upcoming months. All Executive Board and Media Editors are listed below. Should you be interested in contributing to the organisation in any way, or would just like to find out more about us, feel free to contact us on our e-mail addresses found below.

Emma Gauci – CEO (ceo@insite.org.mt) Tiziana Azoppardi – Secretary General (secgen@insote.org.mt) Philip Leone-Ganado – Media Officer (media@insite.org.mt) Maria Anthea Attard – Sales & Marketing (sales@insite.org.mt) Luca Tufigno – Development Officer (development@insite.org.mt) Anthony Yam – Operations Officer (operations@insite.org.mt) Warren Sammut – External Officer (external@insite.org.mt) Emma Grech – Print Editor Franco Rizzo – Video Editor Jake Dalli – Web Edito

DESA Description of our organisation: The Department of English Student Association (DESA) at the University of Malta acts as a link between the student body and the Department of English, with the aim of generating an active cultural environment on campus from which students and member can benefit. DESA also helps facilitate the organisation of events and activities put forth by the Department itself. Since its official launch on the 17th October 2006, DESA has organised a significant number of high quality events relating to the fields of literature, culture and the humanities in general. Academic and social activities and initiatives organised, co-organised or initiated by DESA have been consistently popular with students and external audiences. DESA also facilitates the publication of student research and writing material related to its field with the establishing of its online journal, TEXT. These initiatives are aimed to satisfy DESA’s broader mission to elevate and promote the status of the humanities. At the Departmental level, DESA initiated and integrated a streamlined Student Representative system so that channels of communication between the Department, students and DESA remain always available and accessible.

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Executive 2010 / 2011 President - Irene Scicluna Vice President / Secretary General - Diane Brincat Editor - Teri Camilleri Treasurer - Luke Farrugia Public Relations Officer - Christine Caruana Student Representative for First Years - Claire Camilleri Student Representative for Third Years Elizabeth Farrugia (Please note that because DESA held its AGM this September, the Executive above is strictly 2010/2011, and may or may have not changed).

THE INSITER • OCTOBER 2010

9/30/2011 8:02:18 PM

KSU FRESHERS’ WEEK

ASPIRE TO EXCEL

NEWS

THOMAS BUGEJA

n conjunction with this year’s Freshers’ Week, KSU has decided to embark upon a campaign which seeks to motivate and drive students to think ‘big’ at the start of the new academic year. The idea behind the ‘Aspire to Excel’ campaign, is to encourage University of Malta students, especially Freshers, to be ambitious and to aim high when it comes to their future career plans; following the example of the multitude of UoM alumni who are leaders in their field, both domestically and internationally. This, KSU will be doing by featuring four prominent UoM alumni, most notably; Dr Edward De Bono- Creative thinking Guru and Nobel Prize winner, Prof. David Attard -International law Professor and United Nations Climate Change pioneer, Anna Maria Darmanin -Vice President of the European Economic and Social Committee, and Dr Nicholas Sammut -leading engineer at the CERN Facility in Geneva Zurich. All these University of Malta alumni should serve as role models and inspiration; being a living example of the clear potential which students can harness themselves. Students at Freshers’ Week are being invited to be part of this campaign, by taking a picture in a frame surrounded by the above-mentioned alumni, whilst being asked to think big; stating their dream job or career, the aspirations that drive them to study and work hard at our institution.

KSU KPS COMMISSION APPROVES ‘DRUG POLICY IN MALTA’ REPORT

hilst many of you were enjoying their well-deserved summer break, KSU’s KPS (Kummissjoni Politika Socjali) was hard at work, approving a report entitled “Drug Policy Reform in Malta”, drawn up by a committee composed of a number of representatives from student organizations representing varying interests on campus. The report which made it on all the local TV news and the local press, included a detailed analysis on the current situation in Malta, whereas the second part put forward a number of proposals and recommendations which the committee came up with, with the aim of improving Malta’s drug-related policy. The report suggests the creation of a

Drugs Tribunal which would deal with drug related crime and further investment in halfway houses. The report also calls for harsher penalties with regards to drug trafficking, whilst advocating a more lenient approach in cases of personal use and possession, with a policy aimed towards rehabilitation rather than punishment. The KSU KPS Commission is through this report calling upon the relevant entities, to take up the recommendations made, whilst also hoping that such a report stimulates an informative debate that will lead to the general improvement of the situation pertaining to the issue.

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SPRING REACHES

THE LIBYAN DESERT As the Arab Spring uprisings create a new political order in a number of Malta’s southern neighbouring countries, The Insiter seeks to assess the overthrow of long-time Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi. NOEL CAMILLERI

he image of Colonel Gaddafi was so entrenched in our memories that few ever predicted that the political tidal wave sweeping the Arab world could remove him from power. Each year, the cacophony of green festive lights hanging from the façade of the Libyan embassy in Attard, used to signal another year from Gaddafi’s 1st September Al Fateh revolution, through which he had gained power in 1969. Indeed, any person under the age of 42 cannot remember a time when we were not made to listen to Gaddafi’s rants from his iconic tent or his quasi comical overtures to Italian women to convert to Islam on one of his colourful trips outside Libya. This aura of invincibility started to crack only a few weeks after the Tunisian overthrow, last January, of Gaddafi’s comrade Zine al-Abedine Ben Ali, when seemingly peaceful protests in the eastern city of Benghazi soon escalated into a full frontal battle between Gaddafi’s regime and its opponents. It was the subsequent NATO intervention and the rebels’ determination to consign Gaddafi to the history trash-can that his pledge to cleanse Libya from the ‘rats’, “house by house and inch by inch” was turned on its head. While the new National Transitional Council (NTC) is now trying to assert its newfound authority, one is tempted to ask what the role of NATO and other powers in post-war Libya will be, and more fundamentally, how post-Gaddafi Libya will function. From the onset of this revolution, Libya’s rebel army could never break through the resistance offered by Gaddafi’s forces without outside intervention. It was United Nations Security Council resolution 1973, authorising the use of all

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necessary measures to protect civilians which opened the way for the rebels to reach Tripoli. Indeed, the actual wording of this resolution had not specified the actual removal of Gaddafi and his cronies but had referred to “the immediate establishment of a ceasefire and a complete end to violence and all attacks against, and abuses of, civilians”. Crucially, this UN decree had excluded any “foreign occupation force of any form on any part of Libyan territory”. Countries backing this resolution, mainly Western powers led by Britain and France and some countries in the Arab League were quick to put this resolution into action by whittling down Gaddafi’s military might over the past few months through aerial attacks. Even though, few Western politicians admit of helping the rebels, NATO’s bombardment of Gaddafi’s ground forces before any rebel advance and the supply of weapons to the latter, point towards more covert forms of assistance for Benghazi’s revolutionaries.

THE INSITER • OCTOBER 2010

9/30/2011 8:02:28 PM

attributed this more rapid involvement to Libya’s more direct connections to Europe, particularly due to “refugees, economic linkages and oil”. He admitted that Syria is “a bridge too far”, perhaps indirectly referring to NATO’s inability to open up another military front in a tense geopolitical area also close to belligerent Iran. Libya’s battle for freedom is also mired in questions over its future direction. While dozens of countries are scrambling to secure their share of its resources, albeit sometimes in a rather cheeky way, as in the case of China, whose behaviour in this saga was at best questionable, attention should focus on Libya’s humanitarian concerns and the need to create a political equilibrium between all forces and tribes in the country. Talk of a divide between Tripoli and Benghazi and the rise of Islamists should be dealt with in a reasonable democratic process, even if the end result might not always be music to the ears of Western powers.

NEWS ANALYSIS

The questions emanating from this intervention are surely not related to the legitimacy of the Gaddafi government. While few doubted Gaddafi’s capacity to unleash menacing attacks, even outside Libyan territory, and welcome NATO’s assistance in this conflict, some may be still sceptical about the real interests behind this NATO campaign, especially in the light of similar atrocities being carried out in Syria and to a lesser extent in other Middle Eastern countries such as Bahrain. Compared with the action taken in Libya, the major world powers have acted in a much more cautious manner in the face of the violent crackdown currently underway against Syrian opposition forces. Against this backdrop, one is bound to question this seeming lack of interest in protecting Syrian civilians so as to aid them to achieve their legitimate aspirations. One explanation for this was provided by General Wesley Clark, former NATO supreme allied commander, who

Academic insight Dr Arsalan Alshinawi, a lecturer at the Department of International Relations at the University of Malta, has worked in various Maltese embassies in Arab countries and has conducted research in a number of Arab states about the relationship between the state and society. When asked about the root causes of the Libyan civil war, Dr Alshinawi was categorical in his reply, as he commented that the demands for change coupled with worsening economic conditions were the veritable last straws which broke the camel’s back. “Put simply, people were unhappy with total government failures, the squandered oil money and a biting economic crisis which was putting even more pressure on them.” Dr Alshinawi comments, that the recent global financial meltdown could be absorbed better in European countries than in ones “where society is weak and at the mercy of ruthless tyrants.” He also gives credit to the role of the media and the fact that Arab people are very dynamic and aware of what is happening outside of their countries, “they know that they are in a dire situation with regard to human rights and other fundamental freedoms. Ultimately, this revolution united the dejected majority in a bottom-up approach, even though as happens in the majority of cases the elites will manage

to grab the cake and eat it.” For him, Nato’s military intervention was decisive as “the technological prowess of the West was united with the willingness to fight shown by the Libyan people.” According to Dr Alshinawi, no one can safely predict what will emerge from post-war Libya as, “we do not know what Gaddafi has or what his regime has left behind. Remember that tribal connections are powerful and complex, and Gaddafi strengthened some at the expense of others during his reign.” He went on to emphasise the point that no expert can rule out the possibility or otherwise of further conflict as “much depends on the perceived fairness of the new political and economic system. If a group feels aggrieved and cornered, it may resort to a guerrilla war.” He also comments on the cultural and social divides which characterise Libya, as the Islamists, Berbers and more secular-minded people battle for power. Dr Alshinawi sees this split even in the makeup of Tripoli and Benghazi, as he describes Tripoli as being “more cosmopolitan and Mediterranean while Benghazi has a more Arabic feel attached to it”. However, he is still upbeat that any tensions will be solved by time. “Iraq is better then ten years ago and even if violence is ongoing, people are free from despots. I’m optimistic about Libya’s future.”

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ANNABEL HILI & ALBERT CAMILLERI

events october

2011

SATURDAY1ST - SATURDAY 8TH SACES GROWTH 59, ST DOMINIC STR. VALLETTA, EXHIBITION MONDAY 3RD - FRIDAY7TH FRESHERS’ WEEK 2011 UNIVERSITY OF MALTA WEDNESDAY 5TH UMGS FRESHERS’ DRINKS ANVIL PUB, PACEVILLE WEDNESDAY 5TH ASA TREASURE HUNTING! UNIVERSITY OF MALTA WEDNESDAY 5TH WELCOME IS THE CAMPUS! GUG OPENING PARTY PURPLE ROOM, PLUSH LOUNGE, PACEVILLE FRIDAY 7TH KSU KINNIE CAMPUS FEST UNIVERSITY OF MALTA QUADRANGLE FRIDAY7TH - SATURDAY 8TH STRUMMIN’ CHROMA X UNIVERSITY OF MALTA

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THE INSITER • OCTOBER 2010

9/30/2011 8:02:29 PM

WHAT’S ON

SATURDAY 8TH FRESH’D UP AMAZONIA CLUB, QAWRA SATURDAY 8TH - SUNDAY 9TH L-GHANJA TAC-CINJU SOCRATES’ SWANSONG, BY JOE FRIGGIERI MANOEL THEATRE, VALLETTA SUNDAY 16TH LUMIERE LIVE GIG V-GEN, PACEVILLE MONDAY 17TH - FRIDAY 21ST DESA BOOK SALE STUDENTS’ HOUSE FRIDAY 21ST - SUNDAY 23RD S CUBED’S THE 7TH ANNUAL SCIENCE SEMINAR BAYSTREET HOTEL FRIDAY 21ST - SATURDAY 22RD MOVIMENT GRAFFITI’S ‘RECLAIM THE WORLD’, INCLUDING MY DRUG HELL AND NO SNOW/NO ALPS GNIEN KRISTU RE, FLORIANA SATURDAY 22ND BEANGROWERS LIVE GIG SKY CLUB, PACEVILLE FRIDAY 21ST - SUNDAT 23RD EVEN MORE FOURPLAY THEATRE – UNIVERSITY OF MALTA

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JOELENE ATTARD & RYAN MERCIECA

GUG -

REPRESENTING GOZITAN STUDENTS AT UNIVERSITY

UG (Grupp Universitarji Ghawdxin), is a youth organisation of Gozitan students, representing Gozitan interests, identity and culture and is the only organization at the University of Malta which represents Gozitans. Since its official establishment in 1987, GUG committed itself to represent and cater for the needs of all Gozitan students who may find themselves at a difficulty during the transition from Gozo to Malta. The issue that Gozitans have different needs than their Maltese counterparts has long been debated and nowadays this has come to be recognized. GUG binds itself to tackle issues relating to exams, transport and accommodation which for many students are a headache to sort out. On the 16th of July 2011 a new executive was elected. The executive now consists of 11 persons from various backgrounds and will continue to strive towards the organization’s aim; that of putting Gozitan students at ease. In fact, GUG also presented its new slogan during the meeting with the Gozitan first years on the 29th of August. The slogan “making changes easier” refers to the changes in the lifestyle of new Gozitan students who may at first find University troubling. Another important step in the right direction for GUG was the new development of the possibility that exams could be held in Gozo. GUG has been working on this issue for ten years and this Summer the Hon. Giovanna Debono, Minister for Gozo accepted and wrote a letter to the Registrar promising to cover all extra expenses relating to this issue. GUG will continue working on this matter and will do its best to see this dream for many Gozitans come true. GUG is also serving as voice for Gozitan youths as it is part of the Gozo Regional Committee within the MCESD Gozo. Throughout the years it has always been consulted from various entities with issues regarding Gozo and the Gozitans. Next year GUG celebrates its 25th anniversary since its inception back in the 1980’s. The executive has already started plans and preparations to commemorate this day by organizing a conference and other events.

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THE INSITER • OCTOBER 2010

9/30/2011 8:02:33 PM

WHAT IS JEF MALTA? O

r before that - what is JEF? Well, JEF is a pan-European network of enthusiastic and dynamic young people who profoundly believe that Europe is our future and who commit themselves to make it an even better place to live in! It is an organisation consisting of about 30.000 members in 30 European countries. JEF spreads its ideas via campaigns, street actions, international events, projects, press releases, as well as writings. Consequently, the organisation encourages debate on European affairs and EU policies while fostering youth mobility and exchanges throughout the continent. JEF Malta is, as its name rightly suggests, the official national section of JEF in Malta. It is a very active youth organisation, active mostly at the University of Malta. It forms part of KSU, as well as KNZ, and has partnerships with a host of local and international communities and organisations. A new executive board has recently been elected, giving JEF Malta a new look and a new drive. Should you be more interested in our organisation, you can check our updated Facebook, Twitter or YouTube page, or else send us an e-mail on: info@jefmalta.com. We will also be present during Freshersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Week. What is European Federalism? European Federalism can be communicated as a message of European brotherhood that rests on the following five pillars: 1. Democracy and Participation All Citizens and member states must have the right to participate in the decision-making process at the Federal level in a manner proportionate with the population of their countries. Laws must enjoy the support of a double majority of representatives: of Citizens and member states. 2. Subsidiarity The Federal level must have the authority to carry out satisfactorily the functions it has been assigned. However, power should never be exercised on a level higher than necessary. According to the principle of subsidiarity, decisions always have to be taken as close as possible to the Citizen while allowing for Community action when an objective cannot be satisfactorily achieved by national states acting alone and can only be effectively tackled at the supranational level in order to deliver optimally for the Citizen.

3. Autonomy and Division of competences The spheres of action of local, regional, national or European bodies should be clearly outlined because only a simple division of competences between the different levels of decision-making will avoid the concentration of too much power at one level or with one body. The distribution of powers over different decision-making levels guarantees peace within the federation and this in turn leads to peaceful behaviour towards other states. 4. Peace, the Rule of Law and Human Rights The main aim of Federalism is Peace. Peace is not just interpreted as the absence of war; it is the situation in which war is completely unthinkable as a means to solve any conflict. For this, states must respect International Laws forbidding them to go to war. The recognition and protection of Human Rights, including those of minorities, are not only vital in guaranteeing democracy, peace and justice, but also the unity of peoples as well as their diversity. 5. Unity in Diversity This motto conveys the idea that Europeans are united in working together for peace and prosperity, and that the many different cultures, traditions and languages in Europe are a positive asset for the continent and important for its dynamism. International Opportunities In the following weeks, we will be, amongst other things posting some fresh international opportunities for all Maltese youths. These range from seminars, conferences, writing opportunities and the likes. Alternatively, you can also check out our new Facebook page! (www.facebook.com/ jefmalta)

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STUDENT ORGANISATION

ALBERT CAMILLERI

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ALBERT CAMILLERI

WHICH ORGANISATION? Do you have a passion for writing or travel? Is politics your niche, or are your mud-streaked knees an indication of your love of the outdoors? No matter your interests, odds are there’s someone at the University of Malta equally keen to share the experience with you. As a fresher persistently bombarded with new information, finding such

people may seem overwhelming, but we guarantee from experience that the best place to start is with the innumerable student organisations and groups found on campus. Here at Insite we’ve taken the opportunity to break down the seemingly endless list of clubs into a Fresher-sized package.

GREEN: As we are ever increasingly bombarded with the dire “global warming”, “extinction”, etc., it’s comforting to know there are people keen to go green. Check out the activism of Greenhouse and spare a look at their recycled goods. Meanwhile, Youth for the Environment (Y4TE) may be found adopting endangered animals, scuba diving and proving that today’s youth does indeed care about the world around us.

STUDENT POLITICS: For the more politicallyinclined, the University of Malta hosts a number of student political parties which compete annually for positions in elections for the Student Council (KSU). The Maltese Christian Democrat Students (SDM) is the oldest and largest political faction, currently found in KSU. Rivalling them are Pulse, the Social Democrats, who strive to level social gaps and support minorities. The newest political faction is Moviment Liberali, which evolved from the previous Moviment Independenti, and which seeks to increase transparency and equality of opportunities. Last but not least is Moviment Graffitti, a team of radical democrats active against all forms of oppression and exploitation. Come KSU election time, the heat is on between all these parties. If you love to be in the thick of things and making your voice heard, you’ll feel right at home.

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INTERNATIONAL: Several organisations have a global scope. AIESEC is the largest studentrun organisation in the world, with its goal being the development of leadership potential. On a more European scale, JEF Malta (Young European Federalists Malta) works within its notions of a Federalist Europe. All members are offered various international opportunities, seminars, and so forth. Similarly, AEGEE (Association des Etats Généraux des Etudiants de l’Europe) aims to improve communication, integration and interaction between students from all faculties of European countries to achieve its vision of a borderless Europe. IAESTE (International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience) co-ordinates international exchanges of University students for work experience. TDM2000 Malta, meanwhile, emphasizes youth participation and activism in society while conducting highly admirable fund raising and charitable work. If you’re keen to meet people from across the globe, travel and make a difference in the process, definitely consider a spot with one of these teams.

THE INSITER • OCTOBER 2010

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OTHER: Certain organisations are hard to categorize in that they occupy a unique niche at the University of Malta. If you’re reading this article, you’ve clearly had a taste of The Insiter and may be interested in picking up a pen and joining me at Insite, the student media organisation. If you prefer the big screen to the written word, the film buffs congregate for DVD nights and discussions in MUFC (Malta University Film Club). The athletes can be found sweating it out in inter-faculty tournaments of the Malta University Sports Club (MUSC). One of the newest organisations is LOOP, whose aim is to promote social life on campus and unite the student body. Another newbie – We Are – is a

is known to be particularly helpful, whilst the UESA (University Engineering Association) balance work and play by organising conferences, as well as football matches. Meanwhile, the Association of Students of Commercial Studies (ASCS) are well known for their London trip. ASA (Arts Students Association) and S3 (S-Cubed/ Science Students Society) have the tough job of coordinating their vast faculties. Whilst ASA, amongst other things, hosts exhibitions of the artistic talents of the Universitarians, the latter host exciting annual live-ins. The list of faculty organisations is clearly extensive and there is a place for everyone. BetaPsi (Psychology Students Association) reach out to psychology students, and the ESO (European Studies Organisation) does its utmost to promote student participation, debate and discussion. ICTSA (Information Communications Technology Students’ Association) is geared towards aiding students seeking careers in ICT, and in a similar vein the Tourism Students Association (TSA) pushes for hands on experience in the tourism industry. The Theology Students’ Association (GHST) and the Criminology Students` Society (GHSK) both promote their respective subjects in an endeavour to raise awareness amongst the student body. Comparably, MUHS (Malta University Historical Society) promotes the study of history at a tertiary level. Finally, the law students are particularly privileged in that they have two representative organisations, with Ghaqda Studenti tal-Ligi boasting its very own Thesis Library opposing ELSA’s academic journal. YouthCom (the Youth and Community Studies Students’ Organisation) works for adolescents, with its watchwords being networking and training. Studenti Harsien Socjali (SHS) represent the Social Policy and Social Work students while B.Ed. students are looked after by their very own USTA - the University Student Teachers’ Association!

group specifically targeting LGBT issues and works hard to promote education and diversity and increase tolerance. In keeping with the theme of solidarity and acceptance is MKSU (University Students’ Catholic Movement) who give a voice to Christian students at the University. With over fifty active societies at our University, it’s easy to find others who share your common interests. Moreover, it’s a fantastic way to make friends and get to know people in other courses, whilst enriching the University experience and providing respite from tediant lectures and assignments. So what are you waiting for? Get out there – after all, education is not just about academics. INSITERONLINE.COM

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STUDENT ORGANISATION

FACULTY: The largest category of student organisations may be classed according to faculty. Almost every course is represented by a society relevant to the subject, and one automatically becomes a member just by enrolling at University. The executive members of these clubs are there to aid students with any difficulties and to serve as mentors and go-betweens when it is necessary to confer with staff members. Of course, that is the bare minimum of duty required – many go beyond in efforts to organise extracurricular activities and promote socialisation and a positive vibe amongst members. Perhaps you’re in MIRSA (Malta International Relations Students Association) and would like to take part in their radio show “It’s Debatable”. The geographers have the travel bug and last February UMGS (University of Malta Geographical Society) took an abseiling trip in Ireland. Meanwhile, in an effort to blow off some steam the annual SACES vs. ELSA (Society of Architecture and Civil Engineering Students vs. European Law Students Association) water fight is always eagerly anticipated. Watching our future architects and lawyers come up with increasingly creative ways to douse one another may sound silly – and it is! – but it’s also great fun. Medical students, on the other hand, frequently campaign to raise awareness of various causes and last year’s MMSA (Malta Medical Students Association) campus Flash Mob was quite the hit as students danced for Global Health. If you’re in the Malta Association for Dentistry, you may be interested in a student exchange, whereas the DESA (Department of English Students Association) crew are often found scrawling furiously to meet deadlines for their online journal TEXT. Likewise, the MPSA (Malta Pharmaceutical Students’ Association) annually release the magazine ‘Overdose’ which is not only distributed to pharmaceutical students but also pharmacies. The CommA (Communications Association) executive

15 9/30/2011 8:02:34 PM

DR. MICHELLE GIALANZE

GAIN EMPLOYABILITY SKILLS

…GET REAL! What should students do to become more employable? Has our perception to employability changed? It’s a fact that careers have changed. Employees used to work with a single employer most of their lives in the 1960/70’s, then started to change jobs during the period of 1975 – 1995; now, the latest trend is gearing oneself towards a career of self-employment.

E_engagement R_reality It is so easy to be a dreamer and believe that all will eventually transpire according to plan. What is the difference between optimism and dreaming? For instance, you can tell children that you expect them to eat their vegetables and reward them when they do. You could explain all the reasons why eating their vegetable is good for them, in fact you can eat your own vegetables in order to be a good role model for them. These things might influence them, but you are a dreamer if you think this will definitely work. However, if other children are influenced in the same manner, then the culture around your child changes. Vegetables become cool to eat, you become optimistic… and you have more chances of making your objective real. Preparation is the key in this regard. Therefore here the key would be gaining skills such as creative thinking, innovation, research and financial planning.

ev m N

So, what do employers want and how can students prepare for the future? A possible answer is to be “REAL” - to create, persist and achieve in what you set up to do. Let’s look a little closer at what it means to be REAL and how this translates into skills which can be learnt to achieve success.

This is your chance to do what you love, and consequently you really have no excuse not to engage with what you are doing. This means that you have found what you are passionate about, what you believe in and what you want to do more of. No excuses for not engaging with your work. This means that you know your customers and understand their needs. There are always customers in any work place and your motivation and enjoyment will be passed on to them. In addition, examine what you want and then go for it in a tangible manner. Skills in on-going management are vital. Entrepreneurs are able to ensure that they can successfully respond to issues that arise in the day-to-day management of their businesses. Three aspects of day-to-day management are: networking, time management and understanding your environment are essential.

A_actual This is the planning stage. What are your long-term goals? These can be broken down into stages that are achievable. The million-dollar question is – where do you want to be in 10 years’ time? When you’ve answered that question, work backwards, join the dots; and make the decisions that enable you to work towards something that you actually believe in and want. It has been said that failing to plan is planning to fail and this is never more pertinent than when planning your career.

L_longevtivity Life is about the journey. If you wake up in the morning and dread your day, then something is not right. The results you will achieve in this state will be short lived. Does a problem seem like a mountain so massive that you cannot see the daylight anymore, or a challenge that you face with gusto? Be true to yourself. The future looks great. As Patrick Henry said “I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past”. Enjoy preparing for the future and do keep in touch with us on Facebook .

Contact: »» Facebook - International Vocational College Malta »» www.ivcm.edu.mt

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THE INSITER • OCTOBER 2010

9/30/2011 8:02:34 PM

insiteronlin

events features media Opinio News culture your one-stop portal

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ALBERT CAMILLERI

FRESHERS’ WEEK WHAT TO DO AND WHAT TO EXPECT I

ILLUSTRATION DANIELA ATTARD

know I know…the summer holidays are over. If you’re reading this, you are most likely a student; excited (or not) for another academic year. Whether it’s a sixth form, university or any other institution, the first few days are always vital. Such days are often encapsulated into an orientation week, or ‘Freshers’ Week’, which is a period of time at the beginning of each year at a university or other tertiary institution. We’ve all read or watched stories of the ‘freshmen’ experiences. Indeed, the first year can be as challenging as much as it can be fun.

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It might sound like a long shot, but what you do during this week will have a huge bearing on your new experience. As is now tradition, Freshers’ Week 2011 will commence on the first full week of October, at the University of Malta. The style of our Freshers’ Week is somewhat similar to that of Universities abroad. It’s meant to be a welcoming and fun week, where new students get familiar with surroundings and the rest get the opportunity to catch up and get used to the University life once again. There are a few things to expect during this year’s Freshers’ Week. The first is the all-round confusion coupled with a general sense of unfamiliarity. It’s not the biggest University in the world, but it still takes some running around. Another thing to expect if you head to the quadrangle in the middle of Campus, is the great number of stands. Some of these stands are occupied by familiar or lessfamiliar commercial companies, eager to get you interested in their products or services. From mobile phones to shavers, you’ll find it all during Freshers’ Week. One of the key attractions of Freshers’ Week is the range of youth organisations, all proudly displaying their work, inviting you to join in. Faculty organisations can help you with any queries you might have. On display is of course, KSU, the University Student Council, who are the mastermind behind this event. Although they might look like busy and hectic people, they are in fact willing to help you out with all university problems, big or small. KSU and student organisations are in fact what make University so much more interesting and fun. Joining such organisations can determine your whole university experience, from start to end….from your first Freshers’ Week to your final graduation. Keep this in mind when going around the stands. The opportunities such organisations offer are incredible. From writing an article on this magazine, to organising an international seminar for hundreds of people… the possibilities are endless. Freshers’ Week is also the best place to get updated on future events on campus and elsewhere. Look around for upcoming parties, seminars, live-ins and more. There’s always something going on! Finally, expect to be lost. It takes a few weeks to get used to all the abbreviations and lecture halls and the whole credit system. If you play it right, your university years can be some of the best years of your life. Oh and one last thing… don’t be so down …summer is only approximately 270 days from now!

THE INSITER • OCTOBER 2010

9/30/2011 8:02:39 PM

OPINIONS

JONATHAN FALZON

ith the human population growth increasing alarmingly, the consumption of all the Earth’s resources is fast dwindling while waste amounts are on the increase. We are familiar with the disadvantages of overcrowding in Malta. When considering how small our island is, not only should we worry about consumption of important resources such as fuel, food and water; but also about limitations of space. All this brings me to the everpressing parking problem on our campus which will start rearing its head again now that this academic year is in full swing. With the population of our university increasing every year, the problem of parking has been one of the most talked about issues on campus. While anyone can debate the validity of such an issue, especially in the face of the more arduous challenges currently facing tertiary education, we all have to agree that the parking problem is a cause of frustration for many students on a daily basis. Unfortunately, one realises that very little can be done to increase the parking spaces themselves. Our university campus is already small and the idea of a multi-storey car park is not sustainable for a myriad number of reasons. First of all, it involves a huge financial investment with very limited returns. Secondly, it is not sustainable as when one looks at Malta’s demographics and low fertility rates, it can be estimated that in the near future the university population will start going downhill again. Apart from all this, the establishment of Mater Dei hospital as our University’s neighbour, has meant that the number of cars around university has increased drastically. Investing in a multi-storey car park would further worsen the influx of cars in these areas making the situation even more critical at peak hours.

The real solution for the parking problem must be one rooted in economic and environmental sustainability. In this light, the advent of a new public transport system has the opportunity to give our university a bit of a breather in the way all students and staff make their way to campus. KSU has just published a thorough report though its social policy commission (KPS) called “The Public Transport Reform: The University Students’ View on the Way Forward.” It is hoped that in the near future, the public transport system will provide an efficient means to come to university, hence discouraging commuters from using their own vehicles, especially when one considers the time wasted to find parking and all the costs involved in maintaining a car. On a personal note, I firmly believe that there might be an even better way to come to university. It’s cheaper, more environmentally friendly and healthier. Cycling is a common means of transport in foreign universities, especially for students who may need to operate on a shoestring budget. I do understand that Malta is not very safe for cycling and that our roads are quite steep. However, those who live close to campus should seriously consider this option. KSU has already ensured that there are places available to lock the bikes and only if these are regularly used, can KSU further invest in more bike shelters. This may not really sound like the most warm welcome I could give to all fresher students, however, my aim is to make our student life more sustainable so that we can all enjoy the limited resources available at our University. These words are therefore purposely intended for Freshers’ week, a time when we can start a fresh chapter and where all of us students can get used to better habits, such as alternative forms of transport to university.

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PHOTOGRAPHY CHRIS VELLA

NO PARKING!

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THE INSITER • OCTOBER 2010

9/30/2011 8:02:48 PM

REGULARS

THE

CLAIRE

CHRONICLES Armed with heaps of enthusiasm and a beaming smile, every month CLAIRE BONELLO writes about her adventures, travels, and the joys and woes of student life. This month she’s all about new beginnings and how to start off the new academic year in the best possible way. Read more titbits online at clairebonello.com.

hat a whirlwind of a year. Whether you’ve just started university, or whether you’ve been at the UoM for quite some time, it’s bound to be true that the past year has been full of challenges, testing situations, and the odd moments of euphoric glee. That’s certainly accurate in my case. After four years in the law course, I decided to take a gap year to follow my heart. This involved upping and leaving the country to move to Durham, in the United Kingdom, where I’m currently reading for an MA in Modern History. Quite a turnaround, I know. Upon taking this huge decision, I felt a certain reinvigoration which had been lacking in the previous four years. I finally stopped feeling tied down and uninspired, and instead could truly enjoy my studies and projects. I felt my priorities shifting, and as the months passed, I could feel my future opening up before me, with all its uncertainty, newness and scariness. It sounds cliché, but I felt alive. A few weeks ago I stumbled upon this quotation by a fascinating lady called Grace Murray Hopper: “A ship in port is safe, but that is not what ships are made for.” Forcing ourselves to get out of our comfort zones is what shapes us as human beings and it’s what living is really all about. You don’t necessarily have to be drastic, but you can implement little changes to your lifestyle and mindset which will create a cacophony of colour and change the way you look at things forever. Simply strive to push the boundaries of your everyday routine and mix things up; whether it’s in the way you dress, where you go, or how you deal with things. It’s going to be an exhilarating year, and I can’t wait to share the best bits with you, the lovely readers of The Insiter.

Hold on tightly, it’s going to be a bit of a bumpy ride. But for now, a few tips for the uninitiated at the UoM, which might even prove to be useful for the more seasoned student: »» Get enough of sleep and remember to eat breakfast so you can start your UoM career on the right foot. You’ll feel less overwhelmed if you’re rested and have some fuel in your belly. »» Lists and plans are your friends. From your very first lecture, you’re going to be bombarded with information, so get yourself a little notebook or prepare a text file on your laptop to be able to take it all down as soon as possible. Also, if you’ve barely ever been on campus before, I highly recommend you carry a little campus map to make life easier. »» Get involved. There is a pleasant abundance of student organisations at university, so you’re bound to find the perfect one for you, and if you don’t, set up your own. »» Ask for help. Yes, it might be scary and nervewracking, but when you’re feeling lost or confused, ask for guidance from fellow classmates, lecturers, older students, the library staff, or even the lovely people at the Counselling Unit. »» Tackle student stress from Day 1. Being a full-time student is not always a walk in the park. Work hard and play hard. Make sure you eat healthily, get yourself organised, find time for exercise and at least one extra-curricular activity, and jot down a few goals and aims to give you perspective throughout the year. With the right frame of mind, it’s easy to have a great year. I’m sure there will be quite a few difficult moments along the way, but they’ll pass, making way for happier times. I’m definitely excited. Let’s do this!

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ISABELLE CAMILLERI

SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

ILLUSTRATION TRUDY GERA

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hat is ‘tourism’? Apart from the term’s ability to be defined as ‘travel, for both leisure or business’, it has fast become one of the world’s largest industries. For developing countries it is also one of the greates income generators. The primary period of economic growth related to tourism occurred in the late 1960’s and 1970’s. In the case of Malta, tourism is considered as a very important resource for our economy. For instance, from NSO statistics, the number of outbound tourist trips during April 2011 was estimated at 23,828. This was up by 45% over the corresponding month last year. Same-day visitor trips were also amplified by 1,618 to 3,750. Tourism has become a popular global leisure activity. According to the World Tourist Organisation (WTO), the number of international travelers in 1999 was over 530 million people. Since antiquity, the concept of ‘tourism’, especially to explore nature and different cultures, has been in existence. It has many advantages, such as developing jobs. Official estimates for 2002, for instance, suggest China has 51.1 million jobs associated with tourism. Tourism may also increase standards of living in the country where it takes place. Nevertheless it has its disadvantages. It may create water and air pollution, erosion of sites, disruption of natural habitats and traffic congestion. For example, during the summer period, the population of the Maltese Islands may reach the grand total of a million, and this could potentially create a lot of problems. In 1999, about 34%of tourists travelled to Malta from United the United Kingdom, which is reportedly the most beneficial market for our islands. Many resorts that were once famous are no longer in the spotlight. This because the very same industry that misused the natural and human supplies ironically also damaged them; they then consequently fall out of use. The topic of sustainable tourism often poses an amalgamation of both environmental and economic issues. What is the meaning of ‘Sustainable Tourism’? What are the aims of ‘Sustainable Tourism’? Noteworthy, for starters, is that sustainable tourism does not necessarily postulate a meaning that coincides directly with ecotourism. The WTO defines sustainable tourism as ‘’tourism which leads to management of all resources in such a way that economic, social and aesthetic needs can be fulfilled while maintaining cultural integrity,

essential ecological processes, biological diversity and life support systems.” Sustainable tourism is tourism that attempts to have the lowest possible impact upon the environment. Rather obviously, tourism innately and automatically implements the environment as a resource. What is interesting to note is that this type of tourism is aiding in the creation of future jobs for locals. The guarantee that development carries a positive experience for everyone is, at the end of the day, the primary objective of sustainable tourism. With the expansion of urbanization, destinations in both industrialized and developing countries with momentous natural features, scenery, cultural heritage or biodiversity are becoming increasingly popular sites for tourist destinations. Efforts to preserve and enhance the natural environment should therefore always be a high priority for governments and for the industry. Sustainable tourism may be thought of a strategic phrase that works to define a specific approach to the development of tourism. It is also noteworthy that sustainable development can have the concept of limits. Limits, rather basically, mean ‘controls’. All such concepts are practically indispensible when taking on a discussion of the above topic. On a concluding note, it is valuable to note that all tourism has the strength to be more sustainable. The work towards this increase of sustainability, thankfully, has begun.

THE INSITER • OCTOBER 2010

9/30/2011 8:02:52 PM

HEALTH

PAUL VELLA

STUDENTS’ AMBER NECTAR M

ost students view alcohol consumption as a vital part of their student life, and thus feel at liberty to drink heavily without hesitation. As suggested by several behavioural economists, students’ drinking pattern is influenced by eventualities such as the price of alcohol and other contending unconventional reinforces, as well as imminent responsibilities such as class attendance. According to the study conducted by Monti, P.M.; Tevyaw, T.O’L, Borsari, B., 2004., the hypothetical alcohol consumption of a student is determined by both the price of alcohol and the next day’s task. Pertaining to the abovementioned hypothesis, chances are that a student will go out twice a week and consume more than 15 units of alcohol per given night, thus exceeding the normal drinking limit of 5 units (Monti, Et al, 2004). Research constantly reveals that students tend to binge and drink heavily. Consuming 5 or more alcoholic beverages is regarded as binge drinking. According to international standards, the recommended daily limits for reasonable consumption of alcohol should not exceed 2 units of alcohol for men and 1 unit for women daily. Moreover, as suggested by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism [NIAAA], men are at higher risk of developing alcoholrelated problems such as addiction should they exceed their alcohol consumption to more than 14 units of alcohol per week, or simply a total of 4 units on a daily basis (Hingson, 1997). On the other hand, women are more likely to develop an addiction to alcohol if they consume more than 7 units of alcohol per week, or simply an average of 3 units daily. Once an addict, quitting the habit becomes very difficult. The more one becomes aware of the problem, the better equipped he/she ought to be in solving it. Alcoholism alters everything about us; moreover it becomes a way of lifestyle, with an intensely embedded pattern, affecting an individual physically, psychologically, emotionally, and even spiritually (Moyer, Et al, 2002). Reference Monti, P.M.; Tevyaw, T.O’L, Borsari, B. (2004). Drinking among young adults: Screening, brief interventions, and outcome. Alcohol Research & Health, 28(4):236–244. Hingson, R, Berson, J, Dowley, K. (1997). Interventions to reduce college student drinking and related health and social problems. In: Plant, M.; Single, E.; and Stock well, T, Ed. Alcohol: Minimizing the Harm. London: Free Association Press, pp. 143–170. Wells-Parker, E, Bangert-Drowns, R, McMillen, R, Williams, M. (1995). Final results from a meta-analysis of remedial interventions with drink/drive offenders. Addiction, 90:907–926. Monti, P.M.; Colby, S.M.; and O’Leary, T, Et al. (2001). Adolescents, Alcohol and Substance Abuse: Reaching Teens through Brief Interventions. New York: Guilford Press. Monti, P.M, Kadden, R, Rohsenow, D.J, et al. (2002). Treating Alcohol Dependence: A Coping Skills Training Guide, 2nd Ed, New York: Guilford Press. Moyer, A, Finney, J.W, Swearingen, C.E, Vergun, P. (2002).Brief interventions for alcohol problems: A meta-analytic review of controlled investigations in treatment- seeking and non-treatment-seeking populations. Addiction 97:279–292.

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Of all the illicit substances known, alcohol is termed as being the most detrimental. It develops a physical dependency by varying the brain’s functionality, given that it generates a psychological dependency by ascertaining to us that we cannot live without it (Moyer, Et al 2002). At one end of the spectrum, long-term abuse of alcohol may result to multiple ailments, which can be fatal, most commonly, cirrhosis of the liver. Alcohol addiction is a continuous disease that torments those who suffer from it, proving immensely hard to quit. Therefore, if one has already endured negative repercussions, and does not want them to progress, there’s no other appropriate time to give up drinking than now!

PHOTOGRAPHY CHRIS VELLA

This month, First Level Nurse Paul Vella, who is also a Medical Student at the University of Malta, shares with The Insiter some very valuable information relating to alcohol consumption and alcoholism.

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Meet the Team 1. WHY INSITE? 2. BEST PART OF BEING A MEMBER OF A STUDENT ORGANISATION? 3. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY DOING IN YOUR SPARE TIME?

Emma Gauci - CEO 1. I WAS ORIGINALLY ROPED INTO INSITE AS A WRITER. 2 YEARS ON, IT’S BECAUSE I CAN’T IMAGINE BEING ANYWHERE ELSE! 2. HANDS-ON LEARNING - AND THE SENSE OF REWARD AFTER A JOB WELL DONE. 3. READING AND CALLIGRAPHY. I’VE ALSO BEEN A CUB SCOUT LEADER WITH ST. ALOYSIUS COLLEGE SCOUT GROUP FOR 5 YEARS.

Tiziana Azzopardi - Sec Gen 1. IT IS ONE OF THE MOST UPDATED AND ‘OUT-THERE’ STUDENT ORGANISATIONS. WE ORGANISE A NUMBER OF MEDIA-RELATED EVENTS AND PROMOTE A BALANCED STUDENT LIFESTYLE... I.E. WE’RE AWESOME! 2. CAMPUS LIFE BECOMES MORE ACTIVE. 3. SINGING, ACTING, COOKING, TRAVELLING AND ANY FORM OF HANDCRAFTS.

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PHOTOGRAPHY CHRIS VELLA

Luca Tufigno - Development Officer

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1. I ALWAYS WANTED TO BE MORE INVOLVED ON CAMPUS, SO HERE I AM. 2. DOING SOMETHING DIFFERENT AS A UNIVERSITY STUDENT, WHILE YOU GET TO MEET MANY NEW PEOPLE. 3. I ENJOY TAKING PHOTOS, WATCHING FILMS, PLAYING AND LISTENING TO MUSIC.

Maria Anthea Attard -Sales and Marketing Officer 1. BECAUSE IT IS AN INTER-FACULTY ORGANISATION WHICH FEATURES MEDIA RELATING TO STUDENT LIFE BOTH ON AND OFF CAMPUS. 2.ONE GETS TO MAKE NEW FRIENDS, BUILD SELF-CONFIDENCE, AND DEVELOP NEW SKILLS. 3.LISTENING TO MUSIC, WATCHING FILMS, PLAYING THE PIANO, TRAVELLING AND CATCHING UP WITH FRIENDS.

THE INSITER • OCTOBER 2010

9/30/2011 8:03:22 PM

Tony Yam - Operations Officer 1. 10 WORDS: FUN. EXPERIENCE. FUN. STRESS. FUN. NEW PEOPLE. FUN. EVENTS. FUN. DID I MENTION FUN ALREADY? 2.YOU MEET NEW PEOPLE, TAKE PART IN ACTIVITIES, LEARN CERTAIN SKILLS AND ENGAGE IN DIFFERENT THINGS. 3. PLAYING HANDBALL, LISTENING TO HOUSE MUSIC, READING JOHN GRISHAM OR CLIVE CUSSLER NOVELS, AND HAVING A LAUGH!

Warren Sammut - External Officer 1. AFTER THREE ENJOYABLE YEARS IN THE TOURISM STUDIES ASSOCIATION, I DECIDED TO TAKE ON A NEW CHALLENGE. 2. YOU GET TO MEET SO MANY PEOPLE! AND LEARN SO MUCH. IT’S A LIFESTYLE! 3. FOOTBALL AND SOCIALISING. BUT STUDENT ORGANISATIONS ARE A BIG PART OF MY TIME!

Philip Leone Ganado - Media Officer 1. JOURNALISM... - THAT COULD BE FUN, I THOUGHT. 2. ENGAGING WITH OTHER STUDENTS AND THE UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY AS A WHOLE IN A WAY THAT GOES BEYOND LECTURES AND RESEARCH. 3. ACTING AND DIRECTING WITH LOCAL THEATRE COMPANIES, RUNNING, READING.

Emma Grech - Print Editor 1. MAINLY BECAUSE I’VE ALWAYS LOVED WRITING, AND THE INSITER PROVIDED THE PERFECT OPPORTUNITY FOR ME TO DO THIS. 2. THE ‘NOVELTY’ IT INVOLVES - NEW PEOPLE, NEW THINGS, DIFFERENT EXPOSURE. 3. RUNNING, PAINTING, PLAYING THE PIANO... ANYTHING THAT ISN’T PASSIVE. LIFE IS TOO SHORT TO BE IDLE.

Franco Rizzo - Video Editor 1. IT PROVIDES AMPLE OPPORTUNITIES TO HONE IN VARIOUS SKILLS RELATED TO MEDIA. 2. THAT WITH GOOD TIME-MANAGEMENT, YOU REALISE THAT UNIVERSITY IS NOT ALL ABOUT LECTURES AND STUDYING. 3.THEATRE, PHOTOGRAPHY, READING, LISTENING TO LOADS OF MUSIC AND WATCHING LOADS OF FILMS.

Jake Dalli - Web Editor 1. WHY NOT? 2. THE FEELING YOU GET WHEN YOU REALIZE THAT YOUR WEEK WENT BY REALLY FAST. YOU’RE ALWAYS UP TO SOMETHING! 3.LEARNING NEW THINGS AND HAVING A LAUGH.

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KARL AGIUS

THE STUDENTS’ VOICE….

WHO CARES? N

o student should be left out of higher education (HE) both in terms of access and progress towards completion in higher education but also in terms of representation in governance structures at all levels”. This is what Bert Vandenkendelaere, former chairperson of the European Students’ Union wrote in the opening message of a handbook entitled “No student left out” published by the umbrella organisation of 45 National Unions of Students (NUS) from 38 countries which represents over 11 million students. Students are the major stakeholders in higher education yet students are listened to less and less. Around, you still find skeptics on student involvement in higher education governance. Malta is no exception. This article shows the relatively low level of student involvement in higher education governance at the University of Malta. Senate According to the Education Act there are currently 39 members on Senate, the Rector, (3) Pro-rectors, (13) Deans of Faculties, (13) representatives from each of the Faculties, (2) members appointed by the Minister of Education, (2) members appointed by the Institutes, the Librarian and (4) students. Therefore students only make some 10.3% of the University of Malta Senate. It is a fact that when the Education Act was adopted, the relative percentage of students on Senate was slightly higher. With the introduction of 3 new Faculties in the recent years (Faculty of Information and Communication Technology, Faculty of Media and Knowledge Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences) another 6 academic staff members joined Senate and the relative proportion of students decreased. This figure in anomalous when compared to the Senate (or similar structures) in other Universities (private or public) where the proportion of students to academics is either just below 50% or above 40%. In other cases Universities have at least 20% of members of any board being students. Whereas each faculty has two academics representing it, students have just 4 students to represent all the student body. Yet a University is nothing without students.

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Council The situation on Council is less student inclusive as the Council is composed of the Pro chancellor, the Rector, (4) members from Senate (never students, but academics) (2) academics not on Senate, (2) non-academic staff, member appointed by the Minister of Education, (12) members appointed by he Council of the Foundation for Theological Studies, members appointed by the Prime Minister and (2) students. Therefore only 7.7% of the Council is students. Compared to Senate this figure is even lower and this coincides with the belief that students should be less involved in management and debates on the financing of higher education, a misconception that still exists in Europe. Faculty boards In all boards you have the Rector, the Dean, the Head of each Department, one other academic member from each Department, 2 members appointed by the Minister of Education and 2 students. However considering that there are always 2 academic representatives from each Department, the proportion of students is very volatile as there are Faculties with 5 Departments and Faculties with 14 Departments. Thus circumstances arise where 12.5% of the board is being composed of students, and cases where 5.9% of the board is composed of students. Some Case Studies In Romania students have a guaranteed 25% share of Faculty Council (Faculty board) and University Senate seats. In Portugal 14.3% of members on Council are students. In Lithuania, 9% of the Governing Body (equivalent to our Council) consists of students whereas 20% of the academic Senate consists of students. In Poland by law there is always a minimum of 20% of all the members who are students in any board. Budapest declaration and other communiqués The Budapest declaration issued by the European Students’ Union has made it clear that student participation is the key for fair higher education, which is the only way to

THE INSITER • OCTOBER 2010

9/30/2011 8:04:03 PM

EDUCATION secure social development and sustainable economic growth. Student involvement in governance is essential in preparing students to be active citizens in democratic societies, and the view of students as consumers, as opposed to members and active participants, will have severe impacts on higher education systems as well as greater society. European Ministers of Education stated, “students are full partners in higher education governance” in the Berlin Communiqué (2003). Therefore it is now time to truly implement such a statement and not just involve students in HE governance just for the sake of it being done. Furthermore the Budapest declaration issued by ESU also states that “students are not consumers of higher education, but significant components within it. Consumers are not involved in management of processes, but students are co-responsible of higher education management, as higher education is developed for students. Students are the main beneficiaries of increasing the quality of HE. Students should have more impact in decision-making and governance of higher education, which must be a community of students and professors who are equally responsible for its quality”. Senate meeting and final remarks In a Senate meeting held on 22nd June 2011, I presented these arguments to the members present. The first reactions were that students cannot have a high level of representation such as 40%, as in other universities. At this stage I tend to

“no matter how well they argue, at the end of the day students will always be outvoted”

agree due to lack of human resources as I will explain later on, yet targets should be set up to improve the situation and further engage students in governance. Meanwhile Senate took note of such arguments yet it was pointed out that further studies are required in the light of the provisions of the Education Act. One might point out that in several cases a number of posts remain vacant after elections to elect student representatives are held. This is also another phenomenon which needs to be tackled. Students should be more willing to contribute to the university and to their colleague students in an attempt to leave the university in a better state than they found it. And yes, there is a necessity to provide student representatives with a charter of duties and rights so that the voice of the students can truly reach the relevant fora and bring about the necessary changes. Training is a vital yet missing practice and thus this should also be given due importance as no student representative can properly do his job without having adequate tools and knowledge. I hope that a new Education Act will take into consideration challenges mentioned above. Yet again, policy by students should be updated. Proposals for the new Education Act presented through a report written by myself in 2009 on behalf of the Education Commission already require revision. The main proposal shall push forward so that students’ representatives will be appointed in relation to the percentage of the number of students, and not as a fixed number for every board or committee. Then again, it is probable that little will change. As they say, “no matter how well they argue, at the end of the day students will always be outvoted”. Karl Agius is a 23 year old M.Sc. Biology Student at the University of Malta (UoM). He is an elected representative on the European Students Union (ESU) where he is responsible for Quality Assurance (QA) and governance. Karl is also a member of the ESU QA experts pool. Karl is also a student representative on Senate at UoM and has served as Education Commissioner and Secretary General at the University Students Council of Malta (KSU – Kunsill Studenti Universitarji).

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RAMON BONETT-SLADDEN

ELSA MALTA LAW REVIEW IN A NUTSHELL O

n Monday 29th August 2011, the conference room in Dar l-Ewropa in Valletta hosted the launch of the first edition of the much-acclaimed ELSA Malta Law Review. A panel of speakers was invited to discuss contemporary challenges facing legal practitioners. This panel included the Dean of the Faculty of Laws, Professor Kevin Aquilina; the President of the Chamber of Advocates, Dr Reuben Balzan; the President of the Notarial Council, Dr Roland Wadge; Dr Ann Fenech (Managing Partner at Fenech & Fenech Advocates) and Daniela Bartolo, a final year law student with a distinguished record of representing law students on University bodies as well as on a European level. The newly-elected president of ELSA Malta, Tessa Mallia Borg, opened with a speech which focused on describing the ambitious project undertaken by ELSA Malta. The law review is a high-quality academic journal edited by LL.D students. It is intended to showcase the best of legal research, with sixteen contributions covering a multitude of legal topics as well as two forewords, one by Professor Kevin Aquilina and another by Professor Peter G. Xuereb together with an editorial by the Editor-in-Chief of the law review, Anna Abela. The contributions to the law review were not limited to Malta alone and one may find in this edition a

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number of contributions from foreign authors. The event was not only open to legal practitioners and law students, but also to the general public. The debate was moderated by the Editor-in-Chief herself. The speakers on the panel were asked to list what in their opinion were the challenges faced by the legal profession nowadays. Professor Aquilina said that whereas in the past a lawyer was expected to know the law, in modern times legislation is so voluminous that no lawyer can reasonably be expected to have full knowledge of the law since this was no longer limited to the codes. He touched upon the fact that nowadays the law has branched out extensively and the vast bulk of the law is no longer contained in the codes but in separate acts. The influx of legislation emanating from the institutions of the European Union is also adding to the impossibility of knowing everything. Dr Reuben Balzan was in total accord with Professor Aquilina in his call for specialisation but then went further and said that another challenge was to reach and maintain a high level of professional ethics which according to Dr Balzan had taken a turn for the worse especially since certain misdeeds of certain members of the legal professions had come to light.

THE INSITER • OCTOBER 2010

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SPECIAL REPORT From the viewpoint of Dr Wadge, one particular challenge facing the legal profession was that notarial work had for a very long time been confined to contractual work related to property and bank-related affairs. He said that the notarial profession was not simply a diminution of that of a lawyer but had to be seen as a specialisation in its own right. Dr Ann Fenech agreed with the rest of the panel that specialisation was a necessity for each and every lawyer, especially the more recent graduates. She also emphasised that high levels of professional ethics were indispensable since clients required high levels of service and professionalism. From the student’s point of view, Daniela Bartolo said that there exists a great chasm between the academic experience of University and the practical experience in the working world. Ms Bartolo said that exams were still the primary mode of assessment and although they might work to assess a student’s knowledge of a particular topic, they did not guarantee that as a lawyer, that student would be able to argue effectively and make his point. Ms Bartolo also levelled criticism at the lack of regulation of legal practice of students with law firms as well as individual lawyers. The law course reform was another topic addressed by the panel. Among other points, Ms Bartolo stressed that lecturers had to update their teaching materials and emergent legal principles which were still new had to be made known to students and explained to them by the lecturers. Professor Aquilina said that one particular priority of the faculty was to better the quality of students entering the course. The Dean also lamented the fact that oral exams were almost non-existent in the LL.B course. The re-introduction of oral exams would increase students’ confidence when speaking and would alleviate their fear of public speaking or shyness of such. As regards the law course reform, the Dean outlined a tentative restructuring of the course, which then generated heated debate. A second common theme emerged, this being that the quality of law graduates had been gradually lowered; the first common theme being the need for specialisation. Dr Balzan also highlighted the problem that law students as well as new lawyers lacked communication skills – the ability to communicate their point clearly. Dr Roland Wadge added to this that the notarial course had to be improved as well and that the work of a notary was not being given due recognition and a diploma was insufficient.

Dr Ann Fenech questioned whether students were prepared to write proper theses. This had to be given great importance since it was the first test of a student’s ability to put together a coherent and intelligible argument to support his opinions. Another issue the panel was asked to tackle was the reform of the laws which regulate legal practitioners. With regard to the notarial profession, Dr Wadge said that the warrant exam had to be more stringent and that notarial work had to be diversified and could not simply be limited to bestowing public faith upon public documents. Dr Balzan followed by speaking about the Lawyers Act, which has been in the pipeline for a number of years but has not been enacted yet. He said that this would be a major reform in the area of regulation of the legal professions. The profession had to be strengthened by this act and those who draft it should not simply be concerned with protecting lawyers’ turf. Dr Balzan also mentioned various difficulties encountered by the Chamber when it came to defining a lawyer as well as defining a “legal service”, amongst other points. Ms Bartolo agreed with Dr Wadge that the notarial profession should be elevated to the status of being a specialisation in itself. She also said that for law students to become proper lawyers, the course had not only to provide them with the necessary knowledge, but also instil in them a sense of dedicated professionalism. Dr Fenech then inserted a note of caution and said that one had to be careful not to go from a situation of little regulation to a situation of excessive regulation. Professor Aquilina said that amendments to the notarial profession had been published only a month earlier and said that in the plans to reform the law course the notarial stream had not been neglected. He agreed that the professional ethics had to be reinforced and students’ practice with lawyers and law firms had to be strengthened. At this point the floor was turned over to the audience for them to be able to ask questions. Several points were made by members of the audience about the reform of the law course. Professor Aquilina agreed that reforms had to, and were going to take place. He said that he was committed to reforming the course and was pursuing this with the highest levels of the administration of the University.

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T-Time

freshen up your tees just in time for uni.

Top, skirt, sandals, bag - Topshop Hat, cuffs - New Look Socks - stylistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own

Photographer: Martha Micallef

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Stylists: Nicole Farrugia, Claire Galea, Sandro Rizzo

Model: Jana Grech @ models.com.mt

9/30/2011 8:04:32 PM

T-shirt, jeans - Topshop Beanie - Topman Ankle boots - New Look

Top, shirt (worn underneath), skirt, bag - Topshop Socks, shoes - New Look Scarf (worn as turban), watches - stylistsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; own

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31 9/30/2011 8:04:56 PM

“HATI HATI, KAMU MATI!” NATHAN ADAMS

‘’Be careful, you die!’’ chanted the local guides as we slogged through miles of Indonesian jungle back to the village.

n expedition unlike any I’ve ever had; I had undeniably taken the right decision. Nothing in our snug couple of landmasses could possibly have prepared me for the incredible, yet unforgiving, tropical rainforests of Sulawesi and the picturesque islands forming the archipelago of Wakatobi. I clearly remember those lengthy, nerve-wracking days before the 4th of July, the day I left home on a four-day voyage to the Republic of Indonesia. Multiple time zones and thousands of miles away, my ‘adventure’ was set in motion. It took me nearly two days to recognise other volunteers (and also to make a fool of myself) in the ‘Operation Wallacea’ programme. Two days and nights of travelling had unexpectedly transformed me into an introvert, giving up on making friends until I had reached a proper bed. It was in Jakarta where I made my first ‘travel companion’ where without warning, a large, friendly looking person approached me: ‘’Are ye takin’ part in the Operation Wallacea programme lad? I’m absolutely buzzin’ to get started I am!’’ exclaimed Daniel with a very strong Liverpool accent. He was unaware he would soon be trekking through dense jungle with me, trapping snakes for his Biology dissertation. My first friend. It was only slightly after when all the volunteers were herded together outside the airport. Nearly gasping for breath and sweating profusely in the city’s typical hot, humid climate, the chance to make friends was irresistible. Others seemed less enthusiastic. I believed that my jittery, excited behaviour would be immediately contagious. Needless to say, it was not. It took a half hour for everyone to familiarise themselves with each other. Looking outside my flight window, I saw what seemed to be an abandoned airstrip, which was our landing site. We had reached Bau-Bau, the main city on the island of Buton. After a surprisingly safe landing, we made our way to the remote jungle village of Labundo Bundo.

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This provided a scene of huts on stilts, numerous bed bugs, limited electricity, a diet strictly based on rice/ noodles three times a day and no toilets or showers. I would occasionally break the diet by resorting to ‘lemon ants’ I would pick from some of the local trees. A hellish nightmare, which suddenly like a bolt out of the blue, became a paradise. A place where I could reinstate worry, boredom and safety with peace, satisfaction and adventure. It was here where I would meet my three roommates; Michael from Scotland, Richie from Ireland and Marian from Germany. We would soon become the strongest of companions. We were all enrolled for a course in jungle training consisting of camping and journeying through three days of tropical rain forest. It was during my first night when paranoia hit me. I was convinced something had crawled into my mouth and made residence in my throat in the night. I clearly remember how weak I felt marching to our next base camp after having skipped breakfast! We had resorted to cooking eggs on leaves and slurping water from bamboo stems. It was then onwards I truly appreciated the importance of a good breakfast. My experience explaining the predicament to our medic ‘Dr. Dom’ was an embarrassing one. I shall never forget when she treated a local woman who had a severely infected hand after having had sustained an injury. The doctor remained behind whilst we had all made our way back to the village. I had signed up to help conduct research on ‘Herpatofauna’ (reptiles and amphibians) at node camp ‘Bala’... a place of incomparable beauty, where no photograph could do it justice. It was here where I was taunted by my friends Isla and Emily for being squeamish and worried my first time I had been bitten by a leech on my inner thigh. That would be the first case of parasitism amongst many. They seemed entertained by my misfortune! It was the next morning where all Hell would break loose.

THE INSITER • OCTOBER 2010

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I would like to thank: Dr. Adriana Vella for encouraging me to take part and be the first Maltese person to undertake the ‘Operation Wallacea’ programme. Maria Gauci for informing me about the Expedition. Rachel Daniels for her patience with me on behalf of ‘Operation Wallacea’ All the friends I made in Indonesia who I failed to mention in this article. Without all of you, this expedition could not possibly been as fruitful as it was. Nathan Adams is reading for a degree in Biology and Chemistry. He is the President of student organisation ‘Youth For The Environment’. He is a volunteer in BICREF – The biological conservation research foundation.

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TRAVEL FEATURE

‘’We’ve been robbed lad, go check yer bag!’’ Daniel exclaimed as I woke up in the early morning to prepare catching animals with him. In disbelief, I had seen that most of the volunteer’s bags had been looted; mine included. Holding back tears, I went through my rucksack to confirm what was missing to file a police report. The only possible reason for the misfortune was that people had travelled for miles and hours through the jungle in complete darkness to reach our camp. ‘’This would never happen in Malta! Malta is safe!’’ I blurted out emotionally. I had my camera, clothes, first aid kit and my pay from months of hard work at a bar in Paceville in my wallet. Isla and Emily had been supportive and nicknamed me ‘Malta’ from then onwards. It caught on. ‘Hati Hati, Kamu Mati!’’ chanted the local guides as we slogged through miles of Indonesian jungle back to the village. Exhausted and defeated after 5 days in the jungle, we returned to the ‘safety’ of the remote village. It was here we were greeted only with half-smiles. An eerie silence covered the village that day like a blanket. All that could be heard was the muezzin reciting prayer from the local mosque. Even the cockerels had fallen silent that day. A baby had been born to a local woman the night prior to our arrival. It had passed away shortly afterwards. Everyone remained indoors and kept silent. The harsh reality of poverty overwhelmed me that day. I realised how privileged I was to be born and raised in Malta. It hit me like a punch in the face that not everyone is as fortunate as I. The nearest hospital to the village was a three-hour drive away through rough terrain. The jungle had an unquestionable effect on all of us. We all made our way to the archipelago of Wakatobi the next day. A fourteen hour slaveship trip across Indonesian waters provided us with plentiful time to reflect on what we had experienced. The island of Hoga was now our next destination.

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JULIAN CARUANA

THE 1

...ACCORDING to

JULIAN

Album: Suck it and See Artist: Arctic Monkeys

Many of you will not be surprised to see this album at the top of my list. It’s a known fact that I am an admirer of the lads from Sheffield, but I will try my hardest not to sound like a die hard fan and attempt to give an objective criticism of their 4th studio album. A fair word of warning to anyone who is unfamiliar with their latest music would be that this album is in no way a return to the playful style of music they gave us with their debut album. Songs are now more mellow as the band’s main the focus in songwriting has clearly shifted. We no longer have the “machine gun” drumming from Matt, which characterised many of their previous songs. He had exchanged fast playing for effective melodic

drumming in “Humbug” and has stuck to this method. This allows for Nick to be more versatile and creative on the bass. The strong unity that exists between drum-and-bass is one of the reasons why their songs flow so easily. Alex Turner’s lyrics and songwriting are as always, breathtaking. I have often heard him referred to as the voice of this generation in the UK. In “Suck it and See”, one can easily notice that the band have not shaken off Josh Homme’s influence. However songs are not as heavy on the ears as with “Humbug”. Alex and Jamie have opted for a sort of “twangy” guitar sound on many of the songs. Topping the charts for 4 consecutive albums is a feat that has not been achieved since Oasis. Changing styles so dramatically four times to coincide with every album release is something rarely achieved. All we can do is enjoy the current produce available and eagerly await their next studio session.

Angles 2 Album: Artist: The Strokes 5 years on and it has finally arrived. The coolest band around have released their 4th studio album since 2006. Not bad from a band who have had their fair share of public disagreements. I was awaiting the release of this album so eagerly that when I heard the opening track “Machu Picchu”, I re-looped it for days out of fear of listening to the whole album and not enjoying it as much. However, I eventually got down to letting go of that repeat button and was blown away by what followed it. “Angles” is simply an incredible

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audio experience from start to finish. Of particular interest to me when the album was released was Julian Casablancas. His meagre attempt at a solo album in 2009 was hugely disappointing and as a fan, I was worried that he was no longer up to it. This was not the case. Even live, he sounded better than he did before. I was so happy with “Angles” that at T in the Park, I opted to miss Coldplay, who were headlining on the main stage to a smaller stage to see this seemingly rejuvenated band. A choice obviously made easier by the utterly disappointing release from Coldplay in “Every Tear is a Waterfall”. My advice for this album is to put headphones on, sit back, and enjoy it from beginning to end with no pauses.

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I must admit that I had never heard of Metronomy prior to watching them perform at T in the Park. Combined with their pure energy and Anna Prior’s unique of way of handling a drum kit, they had the few hundred people present in a trance and moving along. On arrival at Glasgow centre, and after a much needed post-festival shower, I ran straight to a Record shop and bought “The English Riviera”. Their music, which sounds like a mix between Indie-Pop and Techno, is a

Album: Junk of the Heart Artist: The Kooks Favourite Track: “Time Above The Earth”

“Junk of the Heart” is a work that portrays a level of maturity that I predict may be taken with a pinch of salt by diehard fans but will simultaneously attract a new breed of listeners. Songs are not as catchy as before, yet they ooze an emotion and serenity not found in previous records. The most immediately noticeable difference is the extensive use of the synthesizer in many tracks. This adds a certain edge and certainly a new dimension to their sound. It seems they have finally found a way to merge electronic sounds with what had become their signature “acoustic” sound in songs such as “Ooh La”, “Naive”, and “Mr. Maker”.

unique blend that I had never heard put to use in such an effective way. This album captures what they manage to do on stage perfectly. It has you moving and singling along instantaneously. Each member is made to use his instrument to perfection in the sense that there are no “extra notes” or fills in a song. Every thing is played as much as needs to be, as loud as it needs to be and as frequent as it needs to be. Add a note somewhere and it won’t be Metronomy any more. Ultimately, what I am getting at is that Metronomy’s music is beautiful in its simplicity. My wish for this band is to see them produce more albums of this calibre so that they can make the jump to greater worldwide success.

This is not to say that they have completely revolutionised themselves as a trace of their original sound can still be found. I always felt that the main problem with their previous two albums was the mixing, more specifically that the guitars were too loud and that the bass and drums were not authoritative enough. There was a slight improvement in this respect in “Konk” but only now has producer Tony Hoffer got it right. The bass is much more prominent and the drums as piercing as they should be. Hugh Harris’s backing vocals are also noteworthy. They really emerge as a driving force and accompany Pritchard’s vocals perfectly. As a whole the album incorporates all that is The Kooks but with a pleasant twist. Their songs are upbeat and yet weirdly melancholic. Here we have another unique British band with a brilliant third album adventure.

Album: Wasting Light Artist: Foo Fighters Favourite Track: “Dear Rosemary”

Deciding to include this album in this list was not easy. The Foo Fighters are considered a band to be past their prime by many. However, having said that, this album is to me the culmination of a legacy that the ever-changing members of the band have gathered over the past 2 decades. “Wasting Light” is Foo Fighters through and through. Critics have not failed to point out that it is “nothing new” and that its been “done before”. There may be a shred of truth in these accusations but as a fan, I wouldn’t want it any other way. What you

expect from a Foo Fighter’s record are loud guitars, Taylor’s crazy drums, melodic bass and Dave’s catchy choruses, and this is what you get from beginning to end. Dave has you singing along by the second listening. “Wasting Light” was recorded on analog tape in a basement and was produced by none other than Butch Vig, producer of the ground breaking Nirvana album “Nevermind”. Krist Novoselic was also brought it to play bass on the track, “I Should have Known” and with Pat Smears becoming a permanent member of the band again since leaving, there is certainly an element of nostalgia to this album. This album will certainly not go down as one of the best records of all time. However, it will continue to ring out of my car stereo for the next few months of the year as it has all summer.

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CULTURE

Album: The English Riviera Artist: Metronomy Favourite Track: “Everything Goes My Way”

35 9/30/2011 8:05:18 PM

ANNABEL HILI

JOAN MIRO: THE LADDER OF ESCAPE S

unday 11th September marked the closing of the highly acclaimed Miro exhibition at London’s Tate Modern gallery. Joan Miro: The Ladder of Escape was a retrospective containing several works by the renowned Spaniard who was at the forefront of one of the greatest movements in 20th century art: Surrealism. It was not just a collection of his most famous works; the exhibition provided a fascinating insight into the life of Joan Miro taking visitors on a chronological journey up until his death in 1983. Out of all the Surrealists Miro was and still is considered one of the most imaginative and inventive, inspiring other creative minds with his sensitive approach to surrealism. His paintings have a rare and unique contemplative quality to them, earning him the title, ‘’the most surreal of us all’’ from Andre Breton, the founder of Surrealism. The exhibition was spread over thirteen rooms in the Tate Modern Gallery. The first room contains some of Miro’s earliest work, including The Farm, a painting which he considered to be one of his best, calling it “a resume of my entire life in the county”. Although he was born in Barcelona, Miro was very fond of a rural countryside town called Montroig, near Tarragona, where his parents owned a farm – the very same farm which is depicted in painstaking detail in the eponymous painting. In fact, Mont-roig is the subject of many of his early works and it is evident that the town held a special place in his heart. Miro was proud of his national heritage and this is especially apparent in his early works. Growing up at a time where his native Catalonia was gaining autonomy from Spain, the artist took pride in his Catalan identity, insisting on the name Joan rather than the Spanish ‘Juan’. The exhibition also brings out Miro’s interest in politics and his attempts to use art as a way of conveying his political opinion particularly well. In his early work we can already see the beginning of his transition into surrealism, specifically in paintings like The Tilled Field and Catalan Landscape (The Hunter). In these works Miro was already beginning to play with colour, proportion, perspective; signs of the style that he was yet to develop in the years to come. In 1924, Miro began a series of paintings with a recurring theme: the Catalan peasant. This subject is representative of his culture and personal identity. In many of these paintings the figure is reduced to an array of simple lines and shapes, set against a backdrop of vivid blue sky. Miro was also passing on a political message as his beloved Catalan autonomy was in danger of being suppressed following a military coup in Spain at the time. The cultural identity of which he was

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so proud was under attack, and a fierce retaliation is to be found in his art. The exhibition brought out the fact that, in spite of the pensive withdrawal that is clear in his paintings, Miro was simultaneously in touch with all that was going on around him, especially in his native Catalonia. He was in no way oblivious to the tumultuous political situation that was unfolding in the early stages of his career, in spite of his natural tendency towards escapism which can be seen in a number of his works. ‘The Ladder of Escape’ is in fact the title he gave to a number of his paintings which represent a recurring idea: that of floating away from the tangible world in search of creativity whilst simultaneously remaining rooted in reality. As Surrealists, Miro and his contemporaries, who included the artists Andre Masson, Max Ernst and Jean Arp as well as the poets Breton and Paul Elard, were enthralled and fixated by the subconscious and the contrast of this with the functioning of the rational mind. Another room in the exhibition is dedicated to a collection of works entitled Animated Landscapes, simplified paintings usually depicting night time scenes. The so-called ‘ladder of escape’ appears in one of these paintings, entitled Dog Barking at the Moon. The exhibition expertly describes Miro’s reaction to the ongoing political turbulence in Spain and how this affected his work. When Primo de Rivera’s dictatorship came to an end, Miro made a set of distorted pastel drawings which he called ‘savage paintings’; these were a reaction to the new government and the violent suppression of the Catalan Republic in Barcelona. As events unfolded he continued to paint passionately as if in response to what was going on around him, angry, abstract works on alternative media such as Masonite. Another interesting part of the exhibition was Miro’s Constellation series. This is a true collection in the sense that each piece is dated so that one can view them in order and follow the artist’s train of thought. It is fascinatingly composed of twenty-three small drawings on paper. Miro’s idea was that they would produce the effect of “large frescoes” when on display together, and this was quite impressive. As the sixties drew near Miro turned to sculpture in addition to painting, looking to Gaudi’s work for inspiration. Moreover, the now increasingly well-known artist began a process of ‘revising’ his paintings, taking old works and giving them new life by converting them into a brand new

THE INSITER • OCTOBER 2010

9/30/2011 8:05:18 PM

CULTURE

Joan Miró ‘May 68’, 1968 - 1973 Fundació Joan Miró, Barcelona Photo: Jaume Blassi © Successió Miró/ADAGP, Paris and DACS, London 2011

Joan Miró ‘Still Life with Old Shoe’ 1937 Museum of Modern Art, New York © Successió Miró/ADAGP, Paris and DACS, London 2011

piece. This new expression of creativity resulted in paintings with two dates which reflected the past, the present and the future on one canvas. Miro even went so far as to burn a few of his older works, which at were displayed at the Tate as they would have been at the time – suspended from the ceiling to allow the visitor to view both sides. Having visited the US, Miro also was influenced by American Abstract Impressionism and was moved to start working on triptychs. These pieces were well received, and having seen them for myself I can see why – the viewer is immediately engrossed by the colours and the imposing size of the pieces, as well as the calm and serene feeling of them. This triptych contrasts quite starkly with his second set of triptychs, both largely white rather than immersed in colour. The white gives an impression of seclusion and loneliness, and this is also reflected in the title of the works: The Hope of a Condemned Man I, II, III and Painting on

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White Background for the Cell of a Recluse. Both titles bring out the isolation felt when one looks at the paintings, which are displayed in a beautiful hexagonal space. What is most striking about the story of Joan Miro is the contrast between his displacement at home and his immersion into the heart of the international art scene abroad as a key figure in the Surrealist movement. Whilst he was struggling on a personal level with the potential loss of his native land’s autonomy, Miro was also being projected to international fame and this led to an attempt to achieve a balance internally. The exhibition told the story beautifully and in a most knowledgeable way. Miro was aware of the influence he had as a well-known artist and he was adamant that, “in the midst of others’ silence”, it was his duty to use his art as a voice for the silent in order to convey a message “that is useful for mankind”.

Joan Miró ‘A Star Caresses the Breast of a Negress’ (Painting Poem) 1938 Tate © Successió Miró/ADAGP, Paris and DACS, London 2011

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Personality of the month

ILLUSTRATION JACQUES BASSE

PHILOSOPHER, POE The Manoel Theatre drama season kicks off this year with the production of Joe Friggieri’s new play L-Ghanja tac-Cinju (Swansong), based on the trial and death of Socrates in 399 B.C. (Manoel Theatre, 8 and 9 October). The play was awarded First Prize in last year’s Francis Ebejer drama competition. It is being directed by Albert Marshall and choreographed by Mavin Khoo, the world famous dancer and choreographer who is now teaching in the Department of Dance Studies of the Mediterranean Institute at the University of Malta. I met Professor Friggieri in his room on campus where we had a free-flowing conversation about his work. EMMA GRECH

E.G. Professor Friggieri, you’ve taught hundreds of students during your career at the University. Most of them know you as a philosopher, but you are also a poet and a playwright. Do you see any relation between these three kinds of activity? J.F. In all of them one is trying to show or reveal how things are. But the means and methods used are different. In philosophy one seeks to establish truths through rational enquiry, by presenting valid arguments that move logically from true premises to true conclusions. In poetry one strives to convey thoughts and feelings in striking language, using metaphor, simile and other figures of speech to create images that will hopefully linger in the mind of the reader or listener. In drama, as well as in novels, one creates characters with whom one can empathise and from whom one can learn. Philosophy seeks to arrive at truths by arguing for them. Literature, on the other hand, exemplifies and displays truths rather than arguing for them. You assess the value of a philosophical hypothesis by assessing the validity of the arguments on which it rests. The value of literature, on the other hand, depends on whether the characters it portrays, or the feelings it evokes, are convincingly portrayed or evoked.

E.G. For two years I used to attend your lectures, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I remember quite distinctly your telling us that attendance at them was not obligatory. In fact you only wanted keen students to attend. Was there some purpose behind this? J.F. In telling you that, I was probably breaking the rules. University regulations, if I’m not mistaken, make attendance at lectures compulsory. Still, I honestly feel one shouldn’t go to a lecture unless one is genuinely interested in the subject and motivated by a desire to learn. E.G. Let’s talk about your play. I know it’s about Socrates. But why is it called L-Ghanja tac-Cinju (Swansong)? J.F. The play gets its title from the poetic reference to the dying swan in Plato’s Phaedo. Socrates uses this image to console his mourning friends who are heartbroken at his departure. ‘When swans realize that they must die,’ he tells them, ‘they sing their most beautiful song, not because they are sad, as men believe, but because they are about to join the god whom they have served.’ E.G. So the dying swan is Socrates.

E.G.Do you find philosophy and literature equally appealing? J.F.Exactly. J.F. My first degree combined both, and I’ve never completely abandoned the pursuit of one in order to chase the other.

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E.G. Tell me something about the plot.

THE INSITER • OCTOBER 2010

9/30/2011 8:05:37 PM

CULTURE

POET, PLAYWRIGHT J.F. The play shows the seventy-year-old philosopher being charged with corrupting the young by his teaching and trying to defend himself in front of a popular jury prejudiced by Aristophanes’ satirical portrayal of him in Clouds. The traitor Alcibiades defends him, his wife pleads for mercy, the chorus offer advice, while his friends try to convince him to escape. Calmly refusing their help, he drinks the poison hemlock, joking about the weight of his body after the soul has left it. E.G.How can a play that revolves around things that happened 2400 years ago be relevant to our own interests and concerns? J.F.‘Some stories,’ Emily Wilson writes in her recent book on the death of Socrates, ‘shape the ways people think, dream and imagine... The cultures of Greco-Roman antiquity remain relevant not because we share the beliefs of the ancients, but because we continue to be preoccupied by their questions, worried by their anxieties, unable to resolve their dilemmas... The trial of Socrates and its outcome represent a political problem with which all subsequent democratic societies have struggled: how to deal with dissent.’ (Emily Wilson, The Death of Socrates: Hero, Villain, Chatterbox, Saint, Profile Books, London, 2007). As Wilson shows, Socrates was seen by some writers in antiquity as a massive threat to democracy and civil society, but is more often considered nowadays as a ‘victim of intolerance and oppression, an intellectual hero who struggled and died for civil liberties.’ In the words of Martin Luther King, quoted by Wilson, ‘academic freedom is a reality today because Socrates practised disobedience.’

Though the characters wear period costumes (designed by my brother Donald and made by Dorothy Ebejer), the dialogue sounds thoroughly contemporary, and the dancers reflect the changing moods of the play as it moves towards its dramatic climax. Michael Tabone in the main role leads a large cast of experienced actors, most of whom are wellknown to theatre and television audiences. The scenes from Aristophanes provide extended moments of comic relief, Simon Curmi enhancing his reputation as one of Malta’s finest comic actors. The prison scenes are quite touching and the soliloquys brilliantly delivered. Visually, the play is full of surprises. So it should be an exciting show all round, and I’m hoping to see many young people in the audience. E.G. Professor Friggieri, thank you very much. J.F.It’s a pleasure.

PHOTOGRAPHY MARIO MINTOFF

E.G. What kind of audience would the play appeal to, and for what reasons? J.F.Because of the way it is constructed, the play should appeal not only to regular theatre goers, but also to those who like watching a good story dealing with themes of great topical interest. Under Albert Marshall’s direction, the court scenes are as gripping as any modern television drama.

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ANNABEL HILI

BOOK REVIEWS Olivia Joules and The Overactive Imagination by Helen Fielding

****

ehind the pseudonym of Olivia Joules, is Rachel Pixley, a journalist who struggles to migrate from the style section to hard-hitting news stories at the Sunday Times offices. At a face-cream launch in Miami, Olivia meets Pierre Ferramo, a fairly metrosexual but sinister Parisian. In thinking that he is too good to be true, Olivia finds that Ferramo is not all that he seems, or better yet all that he in fact seems to be to Olivia- an Arab terrorist hell-bent on destroying Hollywood in one fell swoop. And so, Olivia hurls herself into the makings of the next big terrorist attack in the West. Olivia’s antics take her around the globe and at one point, in a submarine, with a man who may or may not be Osama bin Laden. While her seemingly overactive imagination does run Olivia in a spot of trouble now and then, she

remains witty, humourous and a charismatic character throughout, with the reader rooting for her at every turn. Admittedly, Bridget Jones, Helen Fielding’s wellloved brainchild, is a tough act to follow, however Fielding succeeds in creating yet another witty and insightful heroine in Olivia Joules. She may not be as accident prone, or even busy counting alcohol units and calories, but Olivia holds her own as the protagonist of the novel. Olivia’s overactive imagination is what the reader expects to be her downfall, yet it is exactly what puts her at the forefront of all the action. This spy thriller cum chick lit novel keeps the reader engaged with its fast-paced and intelligent narrative and dialogue, and will surely result in muffled laughter and a few giggles as the pages turn.

Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen

****

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ater for Elephants tells the touching story of a young man, Jacob Jankowski, who finds a new life with the Benzini Brothers Circus during the Great Depression, shortly after his parents’ death and his eventual resignation from a veterinary programme. Jacob is confronted with unfamiliar boorish human behaviour and the maltreatment of animals, disguised by sequined costumes and bright lights. Yet at the circus, he meets those who will become the two objects of his affection, Marlena and Rosie (the genteel circus elephant), both considered to be possessions of the violent and mentally unstable August, the ringmaster and head of Benzini Brothers. Nevertheless, as a vet for the circus, Jacob has very little power with which to overthrow August, but his love for both Marlena and Rosie, and an admittedly unlikely turn of events, give him the strength to make right all that August has done wrong.

Gruen portrays the circus world as deceptive and devious, and illustrates the great chasm that lies between the show and what goes on behind the scenes, of both a circus and a marriage. The great amount of research and insight is evident in Gruen’s depiction of both the characters and the setting, where each scene is described to a tee as to provide the reader with a sense of ambience and environment, which is imperative in a period piece. The reader is given an unadulterated understanding of Jacob’s character through his narration by his elder self, as well as his younger self. Through Jacob’s first-person narrative the reader is bound to be arrested by his vivid and direct descriptions of all things circus related. At it’s core, Water for Elephants is not just a love story between a man and woman, but it is about a young man’s journey to find his new home.

THE INSITER • OCTOBER 2010

9/30/2011 8:05:41 PM

CULTURE

CHRISTINE CARUANA

FILM REVIEW THE DEVIL’S DOUBLE

n the wake of the recent developments of the Arab Spring, the prospect of the release of a film about the doppelganger of Saddam Hussein’s son struck me as intriguing. Coupled with the publicised application of sophisticated technology in its production, and the knowledge that is was chiefly filmed in Malta – including the promise of a cameo appearance by our very own alma mater – The Devil’s Double’s lure radiated in a gold to rival that of its own poster. The film is based on Latif Yahia’s autobiographical novel of the same name and, given the subject matter at hand, I can see how Lee Tamahori could have found it a challenge to direct this. Latif is the unfortunate soldier and childhood ‘friend’ of Uday – the ‘Black Prince’ of Iraq. In 1987, he was selected to become Uday’s ‘fiday’, or ‘bullet-catcher’. In Latif’s words, this was the day of his own death. Yet, it was also the birth of a sadistic mind game with the psychological and physical consequences that its Machiavellian and perverted puppeteer would inflict on ‘noble’ Latif. Whilst Tamahori describes The Devil’s Double as a return to the great gangster movies, I cannot help but feel that the effect achieved is not altogether congruent with this presentation. Anna Sheppard’s costumes work wonders to transport the viewer into the decadent, 1980s world of the Iraqi elite. Malta itself successfully doubles as the land of contrast that was Iraq under the Hussein regime; various inconspicuous locations serve as derelict zones that strikingly juxtapose against the luxurious, excessive settings of the Hussein properties.

All this helps generate an atmosphere of profligacy inherent in many gangster movies; as do the random bouts of celebratory gun-fire, Uday’s lascivious indulgences and his deranged violence sprees. Not only do these things heat up an already interesting plot but they also seem to act as a main attraction themselves. Yet, whilst this would possibly have been satisfactory in any mainstream, fictional gangster movie, I kept finding myself feeling slightly more confused with every ‘shock’-factor charged digression that kept being dished out...until finally, digressions stopped digressing from anything distinctly in focus. Perhaps I was looking for a political statement or an eloquent reflection on an unfortunately fresh and delicate, historical wound in a cinematic work that simply does not seek to do that. Yet, that one is left pondering such thoughts is an indication that something which at least acknowledges these sentiments was not brought to the table when it ought to better have been. The film’s script, written by Michael Thomas, attenuates some these shortcomings by the effectively portrayed silences in the dialogue. At times, these seem to invite the viewer to create a personal evaluation of the dramatic unfoldings from the big screen. By and large, the great saving grace of this film is, in my opinion, the outstanding delivery of the main actor – Dominic Cooper. Aided by technology, Cooper projects the part of the ‘Devil’ and his ‘Double’ in a seemingly effortless and scarily believable performance(s). Some of the work that the production team put into the minor facial, aesthetic differences between the two is cleverly included in the film to help the viewer identify the two protagonists. As one can imagine, there is some difficulty to connect with the mad, gun-toting debauchee that is Uday. Yet, even with the lacking support of badly-cast Ludivine Sagnier (who plays Latif’s love interest), Cooper pulls off the personifications of the Id and the Ego in a human and compelling manner. I guess this means that the moral of the story is to watch this film if you mostly want to see a rare feat of acting...and also that if you’re the son of a dictator, some director might one day hotchpotch an extended infomercial of your exploits that doesn’t have much of a moral or a story to it.

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WARREN SAMMUT

STRUMMIN’ HOME Strummin’ Home is not just any other concert. It’s a concert with a cause. In the run-up for their 10th edition, Warren Sammut caught up with Gwyneth Grech, co-director of Strummin’ Home, and Becky Pirotta, who apart from being on the organising committee, is also a singer on the show.

PHOTOGRAPHY CHRIS VELLA

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he idea for Strummin’ Home started 10 years ago, where the aim was to create something for those in need. After a brainstorming session, it was decided that something should be done to help Fondazzjoni Suret il-Bniedem which helps homeless people, from which it now takes its name. A concert with a guitar choir was thus created,” says Gwyneth. Over the years, the show became a stable event, helping different organisations and foundations throughout the years. “We have had our struggles of course. Marketing was difficult before, due to lack of awareness. Also, finding sponsors is always a headache, companies would have already planned their financial year so they would not be able to help us, or worse, unfortunately, they would not understand the aim of the concert.” Nonetheless the show evolved. “A committee was formed. We now have a more formal structure. We have a co-ordinator for guitarists, a co-ordinator for singers, and so on. We try to keep up with times to survive!” It is evident that the show grew through sheer willpower. “Willpower is all we need,” Gwyneth adds. “Indeed, the guitarists do not need to know how to play when they first join! The co-ordinator teaches them to play. The youngest guitarists we have right now are 7 years old. If they are willing to learn, then it becomes possible.” In fact, Relikc’s Luke Grech also started with Strummin’ Home. I ask Gwyneth who benefits from Strummin’ Home and how. “Basically, we choose an organisation we would have been approached by. Generally these are disadvantaged groups. We see that they are in line with our aim, and we try to help an organisation each year. We thus help these foundations and homes financially while also trying to

create awareness about them with the general public.” Gwyneth tells heart touching stories of how they helped a children’s home to repaint the walls and so provide a more homely environment, and how they helped the foundation Equal Partners (which helps to include those with Different Needs to include them in the community), which did not have enough funds to make it throughout each month. “This year the Malta Community Chest Fund will benefit, and thus it is under the patronage of the President of the Republic,” Gwyneth concludes. I also met Becky Pirotta. She says that when she first watched the show, she immediately knew that she had to take part. When asked why, her answer was clear. “I enjoyed it a lot, and I cannot agree more with the aims. It is very exciting and satisfying to know that your efforts are going for charity. We start rehearsing as from July!” Becky also underlines that Dana McKeon, who also started her career with Strummin’ Home, will be a guest band at the show this year. I ask Gwyneth and Becky why University students should visit. “It’s a very good show!” they claim. “And it’s for a good cause. The amount of work that it involves gives us no material benefit, but gives us endless satisfaction”, they add. “After all, where else will you see a guitar choir of 50 people on stage at the same time?” The show will be held at Sir Temi Zammit on the 7th and 8th of Ocotber. Prices are €10 for adults and €8.50 for children. Fixed groups of 10 pay €8.50 each member, and Students also pay €8.50 upon presenting a student card. The tickets are available from any committee member, by e-mail on strummin.home@zhnmalta.org, or on ticket hotline 79244418.

THE INSITER • OCTOBER 2010

9/30/2011 8:06:02 PM

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01 1 SMARTPHONES DEO FALZON

n today’s tech-related world smartphones have experienced a huge boom in sales; the most common amongst them being Android phones, BlackBerrys and iPhones. The average user would like to know the differences between them, as it isn’t everyone who constantly keeps up with the shifting tech world. Android phones are perhaps the most difficult to choose between. This is because unlike Apple, Android is licensed to various manufacturers that each manufactures their own handset featuring the android operating system, much like various laptop brands manufacture their own laptops using a single operating system such as Windows. The cheaper versions of such handsets ensure widespread sales, however they may suffer from a slower processor and a slower performance overall, and may also have a different touch screen technology which prevents multi-touch. This being said, however, they are still very useable in what is the most common usage of smartphones to date – social networking and communication. The high-end versions would have larger, better-looking screens as well as other features such as the inclusion of offline GPS, which is very useful and accurate. Android handsets as a whole are the most customizable out of the 3 brands I will mention. This customisability is a direct contradiction to the closed nature of the iPhone, which however has other advantages. Some Android aficionados boast about their live wallpaper capability, which simply means that the background wallpaper is animated and moves about which only serves the purpose of decreasing your battery level down to the 0% mark. Many high-end Android phones suffer from battery drainage but recharging them is very easy with a standard USB 2.0 port. Android fully supports flash, which has been the subject of a lot of talk between Android and Apple, that have shunned it out of their systems. BlackBerrys start cheap and progress to more expensive models whilst still providing the same business, sophisticated image they are associated with. And that is what I would buy a BlackBerry for (and no - not even the famous BBM – which is the infamous Blackberry messaging service, that does not make use of the normal SMS tariffs - as this is present in other iterations throughout all the other brands). Students have no use of the added enterprise security BlackBerry offers for emails and it being the weakest platform for apps (although this might be set to change with the new QNX-

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based phones to be launched in early 2012), it has few other selling points other than its price and brilliant keyboard. The brilliance of the keyboard is simply because of its tactile and full-size QWERTY nature. BlackBerry’s other deficiencies are the non inclusion of flash support or Html 5 which may prove tiresome when trying to watch online videos. On the whole however BlackBerry is perfect for the average user who only requires messaging, email, basic Internet browsing and music capabilities. The cameras on the low-end BlackBerry phones are sadly limited apart from the higher-end versions so if you fancy yourself an aspiring photographer, do keep that in mind. Apple is the easier to distinguish between as it only offers one particular smart phone at any one-product cycle, the only variations being in storage space. As for Press issues, the September keynote, which will probably introduce the new iPhone, has still not taken place; so I am sadly restricted to commenting on what is properly current. Rumours are however pointing out that Apple may be interested in taking a slice of the lower-end market and announcing 2 concurrent phones, one high-end the other aimed squarely at the lowerend. Time should relegate this to the meaningless wafflebin or not. Hopefully not. Apple operates a closed and tight environment. It produces both the software and the hardware for its products much like BlackBerry but very unlike Android and its parent Google, the king of open source. This closed system has however its advantages. Before being published, apps undergo scrutiny by the Apple App Store to ensure a uniform design, together with ease of use. Android does not have such a feature. This poses itself as a double-sided blade, as it offers plenty of freedom for app developers but may not provide the same simple unified experience for the end user. Before iPhone, smartphones incorporating a touch-screen where mostly limited to bulky undesirable geeky phones which responded only to the prodding of a plastic stick. The first iPhone proved to be a model for all other companies to follow and thus the touch screen revolution was born. Android appeals to the tech-knowledgeable audience due to its better specs (on paper), however this does not necessarily mean that it performs better. From my experience better components do not necessarily mean a better experience. Due to the variety of devices, the software on some Android phones is not as optimised as it is on the iPhone. This leads us to the great advantage Apple has when

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TECHNOLOGY operating a closed system environment and devices using similar technology during their product cycle. This does not mean that you should necessarily go for an iPhone as such restrictions do not appeal to all consumers. There are other smartphone OSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s out there in the form of Windows Mobile 7 and Symbian. The former has seen a huge revamp since Windows Mobile 6.5 and has a user interface ripped from the movies however despite boasting some very capable devices by Samsung and HTC, the app scene is still slightly limited due to it being a relatively new addition to the scene. Nokia will also be producing smartphones for the Microsoft platform while its own operating system â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Symbian, has been given the back seat.

The Insiter QR code. On the cover of this magazine (and the ones that shall follow), you will find a rectangular box made up of white and black boxes. This is not some odd misprint but a QR code which can be scanned by smartphones using apps such as RedLaser. It will instantly take you to the insiteronline.com website. Its square shape and different layout to the rectangular barcodes (UPC Codes) of old simply means that it can store much more information due to a more complex pattern which can be read and

All in all out of the major platforms, every smartphone operating system has its own set of skills and pitfalls yet each shine in different scenarios. If you want to experience total freedom and are willing to sacrifice some apps you should go for an Android device, the multitude of devices there cater for almost any price point. BlackBerrys are optimal for those email/message heavy users out there with its brilliant keypad whilst those who are willing to sacrifice freedom for more apps and arguably better overall design, the iPhone should be right up their street.

decoded by the software. The simplistic rectangular bars could only store limited information, such as for instance some stock number useful in supermarkets. The width of the bars is transformed into numbers recognised by the optical reader, and found an application in the speeding up of the checkout system. With high resolution cameras as standard on most cell phones, these are now more than capable of reading the new square code format and performing a specific action, in this case, opening up theinsiteronline.com without you having to type a single letter. Enjoy!

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MICKEY GAUCI

THE FORD FIESTA A LOVE-HATE RELATIONSHIP (MOSTLY LOVE). I hate it. I really do. I hate this car. Let me tell you why. It’s because until precisely one hour ago, there was one thing I hated most in this world - Maltese motoring magazines... The glorified car adverts that are engineered to look like genuine motoring articles with actual journalists writing actual “reviews” about all the latest cars that the industry has to offer. And lo and behold! Every car has a great engine, great styling and an interior that would convince you to sell your house and move your family into the back seat for the rest of their lives. And just to prove what a great deal you’re getting, on the opposite page you’ll find a full advertisement from the wonderful people selling the car! Then, in a somewhat ingenious ploy to increase exposure and journalistic integrity, they are placed in most of our local newspapers where every month they conveniently fall into your lap when you begin reading the daily news. I hate it! And this is why I hate the Fiesta. I hate it simply because it makes me feel like I’m writing an article like the ones I’ve just described. Put plainly, I hate it because I love it. From the moment I set eyes upon it, through to driving it, and right up to the moment the sales executives had to pry me out with a crowbar, this car did nothing but impress. Why? Like most modern small cars, the Fiesta delivers all that you would expect of it. Good styling, a decent choice of engines – all of which perform impressively – and even an interior you’d be proud to let your friends sit in. And that’s all well and good. I mean, the same can be said for the VW Polo which I’ve tested. It ticks all the boxes, every single one. But so what? As great as the Polo is, it is the most boring car in the world.

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The Fiesta has an ace up its sleeve though. It gives you what you’d expect, and then some. The paint, for example. To call the paintwork on the Fiesta ‘first-class’, is a drastic understatement. I’ve seen every paint option available on the car and each one looks like you’d have to sell your kidney to pay for it. And the mirrors! I love the idea that someone at Ford has actually realised that it’s the mirrors that bring together the look of the car (if you don’t agree just take a good look at a Chevy Captiva). Then they topped it all off with those beautifully exaggerated flowing lines. Inside you get a good quality and great looking standard interior, which Ford will let you customise to no end. From a Sony sound system to the awesome Individual Red Style interior. Believe me, the only thing they can’t give you is a little elf sitting in the glove compartment serving you cold beverages. When it comes to performance, the 96bhp 1.4 petrol which I tested gave great performance, if a little strained when the A/C was on. On throttle the engine note is also great to listen to, and this is a big plus for me seeing as most small engine cars sound like they’re being driven by a chain saw. To complement this, the adaptive steering system provides pinpoint accuracy and response enhancing the driving experience to no end. And to top it all off… you get 45 miles to the gallon. The only thing that really disappointed me was when I was told (very carefully) that the 120bh 1.6 litre version is no longer available in Malta. The only way they could console me was with the price. It starts at €12,500 up to €17,500, making this car one of the cheapest hatches on the market. Bottom line: If you’re looking… take a test drive. Just don’t take your cheque book. OK, that’s it. No more praise. I’m off to find a car I can truly hate. God I pity the next one I test.

THE INSITER • OCTOBER 2010

9/30/2011 8:06:19 PM

PHOTOGRAPHY MARTHA MICALLEF

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THE INSITER • OCTOBER 2010

9/30/2011 8:06:37 PM