The official launch of Essays Beyond Borders in Malta took place on the 6th of November 2024 at the Aula Magna of the University of Malta’s Valletta Campus. The event drew an engaged audience comprising writers, students, educators and academics.
The programme began with an introduction by Prof. Mario Aquilina, the Academic Lead of the project. Prof. Aquilina outlined the vision for Essays Beyond Borders, which presents the essay as a dynamic form, blending personal exploration with a social outlook. The essay as conceived in the project transcends traditional boundaries—geographical, cultural, and intellectual—connecting writers across Europe and promoting planetary perspectives through workshops and research. Prof. Ing. Simon G. Fabri, University Pro-Rector for Research and Knowledge Transfer, then highlighted the project’s alignment with the University’s commitment to research and innovation. In particular, it was noted that the project is allowing for productive collaboration between the Department of English and the Department of Maltese at the University of Malta in ways that coheres with the bilingual ethos of Malta.
Prof. Adrian Grima spoke about the essay in Malta and in Maltese, showing the potential of this form for a Maltese context. Dr. Kurt Borg, an essayist who has just published a book of essays called ‘sens ta’ ħarifa’ spoke about his relationship with the essay as a form that allows him to reflect on his existence and his being in the world. Dr. Kathleen Vella, HEad of English at St Martin’s College, discussed the pedagogical potential of the essay in educational settings, while student speakers, Ms. Klara Vassallo and Mr. David Attard, provided reflections from a student perspective.The event concluded with a reception, allowing attendees to discuss ideas and build connections, marking a successful launch of Essays Beyond Borders.
