A once-abandoned historic building in Santa Venera has been given new life as Ir-Razzett tat-Tfal, an educational centre dedicated to sustainability and environmental awareness for children and young people.

A historic building that had long been abandoned at Ġnien Romeo Romano in Santa Venera has been transformed into a modern educational facility for EkoSkola students and the wider community, aimed at promoting sustainability and environmental awareness.

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

During the inauguration, Minister Miriam Dalli highlighted the importance of the initiative in shaping future generations. She explained that one of her first decisions was to collaborate with EkoSkola to transform the former farm building into an educational centre for children. Through the restoration of this historic structure, a space has been created where students of all ages can learn about sustainability and the importance of caring for the environment. The centre will offer hands-on activities that allow students to deepen their understanding of nature, sustainable practices, and waste reduction.

The centre is fully accessible and includes dedicated facilities designed to accommodate children with autism, ensuring that learning opportunities are inclusive for all.

The project was carried out by WasteServ as part of its commitment to sustainability and the preservation of cultural heritage. This restoration, together with other greening initiatives completed or currently underway by WasteServ, reflects the organisation’s ongoing efforts to create a better future for both the environment and local communities. The project holds particular significance as it is directly aimed at educating children.

The centre includes multifunctional rooms, breakout areas, an administration office, informal learning spaces, and facilities designed to meet the diverse needs of children. Visitors can also view restored historical agricultural tools and artefacts on display, offering insight into the building’s past. Restoration works included structural and architectural repairs to masonry walls, timber beams, apertures, and floors, as well as the conservation of vernacular features that reflect Malta’s rich cultural heritage. All structural interventions were carried out with great sensitivity, integrating old and new elements to preserve the site’s historical and cultural significance.