2012

In Malta, young inmates experienced museums on International Museum Day with a tour for the young inmates of the Corradino Correctional Facility, who form part of the Young Offenders Unit Rehabilitation Services. During their tour of Bighi, the inmates were addressed by Culture Minister Dr Mario de Marco and Justice Minister Dr Carmelo Mifsud Bonnici.

To promote International Museum Day, ICOM Malta held various events in different museums. But perhaps one of the most significant events included a day tour for the young inmates of the Corradino Correctional Facility who form part of Y.O.U.R.S. (Young Offenders Unit Rehabilitation Services). The tour started at the Bighi Conservation Division of Heritage Malta, where they were given the opportunity to see what goes on behind the scenes for the conservation, display and interpretation of the artefacts which later go on display in a museum.

They were then taken on a tour of the Malta Maritime Museum. The idea behind the event was to promote culture to these young inmates and give them a better chance for rehabilitation. The visit was a great success, and both the Minister of Culture and the Minister of Justice, invited to meet these young inmates, found time to attend.

Following this visit, other initiatives are being developed in connection with culture and museums, and the inmates will soon be participating in a workshop on street art.