Saplings planted at the Msida Campus to commemorate deceased members of staff

The Office of the Pro-Rector for Sustainability, in collaboration with staff from the Facilities, Estates & Capital Development Directorate, have recently supported the planting of saplings to commemorate deceased colleagues. Six of the seven trees were sponsored by colleagues, friends and members of staff.  The tree for Dr Pauline Dimech was sponsored by eleven academic members of staff currently employed in four Faculties and one Institute at the University of Malta but who were undergraduate students with Pauline in the 1982-1987 B.Ed.(Hons.) cohort. 

The short but dignified memorial ceremonies were held to honour and remember:
Dr Michael Aquilina and Mr Louis Borg, former members of staff at the Institute for Physical Education and Sports
Rev. Dr Nicholas Cachia, a former member of staff at the Faculty of Theology
Dr Karl Chircop, a former member of staff at the Junior College
Dr Pauline Dimech, a former member of staff with shared duties between the Faculty of Education and the Faculty of Theology
Prof. Anna McElhatton, a former member of staff at the Faculty for Health Sciences
Perit Kristine Pace, a former member of staff at the Faculty for the Built Environment. 

The link between trees, sustainability, and memorials for colleagues offers the possibility of a meaningful, living tribute that has a positive environmental impact and a symbol of enduring life and legacy. This approach embraces ecological consciousness. 

Trees as living memorials: Unlike static monuments, a memorial tree is a dynamic, living entity that grows and flourishes over time, symbolising the continuity of life, strength, and resilience. A communal tree planting can foster a sense of unity and shared remembrance among colleagues whereas the tree's seasonal changes mirrors the cycles of life.

Sustainability and environmental impact: Planting trees as memorials is an inherently sustainable choice as this contributes to combating climate change and restoring ecosystems. 

Collectively choosing, planting and caring for a memorial tree:  Offers colleagues a unifying activity at the workplace, providing a natural place where colleagues can visit, reflect, and share stories, keeping the memory of our past colleagues alive for future generations. 

A positive legacy: The memorial not only honours the deceased but also aligns with our sustainability values, showcasing a commitment to environmental responsibility that benefits the wider community and planet.