For the first time, Esplora Interactive Science Centre hosted approximately 500 students from Kinder 1 to Year 6 on 21 October for a commemorative event marking Jum il-Kottonera. The event brought together science, discovery and interactive learning as part of a series of activities leading up to Jum il-Kottonera.The students enjoyed an engaging educational experience that combined exploration, creativity and scientific discovery. The programme included exploring Esplora’s interactive exhibits, free-play activities, a science show and a planetarium film, offering students of different ages the opportunity to discover scientific concepts in an engaging and interactive environment.Among those present for the commemorative event were the Minister for Justice, Research and Innovation, Clifton Grima; Mr Joe Mizzi, Chairman of the Kottonera Foundation; Mr Silvio Scerri, Chief Executive Officer of Xjenza Malta; and Ms Mary Ann Cauchi, Senior Director of Esplora Interactive Science Centre.Highlighting the significance of Jum il-Kottonera and the importance of education, science and innovation in inspiring younger generations, Minister Clifton Grima said that,“Bringing science and Cottonera Day together offers a wonderful opportunity to show how knowledge, education and innovation can bring people closer to one another and to the communities in which they live. Esplora, located in the heart of Cottonera, plays an important role in making science an accessible, engaging and interactive experience for everyone, particularly children and young people. By continuing to invest in curiosity, learning and research, we are building a more informed and creative society, ready to face the challenges of the future.”Joe Mizzi, Chairman of the Kottonera Foundation, remarked on the importance of initiatives celebrating the region’s heritage and identity. Mr Mizzi said, “At the Kottonera Foundation, our mission is to enhance quality of life through meaningful regeneration that improves infrastructure while safeguarding the region’s historic character. By celebrating Kottonera’s rich heritage, culture and community spirit, we aim to foster pride, encourage participation and inspire shared responsibility for preserving our past and shaping our future.”Silvio Scerri, CEO of Xjenza Malta, stressed the importance of science engagement and informal STEAM education in encouraging curiosity and inspiring children from an early age. Scerri said, “As a proud son of Kottonera, it was truly special to see so many children come together at Esplora to discover and enjoy the wonders of science. Initiatives like these bring our community closer while inspiring our younger generations to stay curious, explore and dream big.”Mary Ann Cauchi, Senior Director of Esplora Interactive Science Centre, said, “As part of the Kottonera community, we want children to see Esplora as a place where they belong, where their questions matter and where they can learn through discovery. Celebrating Jum il-Kottonera together connects pride in our local heritage with the possibilities that science and creativity offer our younger generations.”The event formed part of a series of activities leading up to Jum il-Kottonera on 23 October, celebrating the heritage and identity of the Three Cities while bringing science and education closer to the local community. Send this to wish someone a Happy Kottonera Day•