The Great Maltese O-Level Conundrum: Ethics or Pastizzi for Thought?

An Unexpected Curriculum Twist

In a surprising turn of events, the Maltese educational system has announced that starting from next scholastic year, all 13-year-olds will be faced with an ethical dilemma worthy of a Shakespearean plot: whether to take up Ethics or a newly introduced subject called Pastizzology, as an O-Level exam subject.

Meet the Characters

At the heart of this educational twist are three eccentric and unmistakably Maltese teenagers: Salvu, a budding philosopher from the silent city of Mdina who can debate the morality of a ħobż biż-żejt like no other; Żeża, whose love for rabbits goes beyond the traditional Fenkata, as she’s the president of the ‘Save the Rabbit’ society in Gozo; and lastly, is Wistin, a culinary prodigy from Valletta, whose passion for pastizzi could see him become the world’s first Pastizzologist.

The Big Decision

The three friends are now at the crossroads, under the shade of Valletta’s fortifications, debating what choice to make. “Uwejja, this is a tough one,” ponders Salvu, scratching his head. “Ethics could save the world, but pastizzi… they save my soul!”

“You’ve got to think of your future, ħabib,” Żeża advises, as she munches on a carrot. “Imagine, a world where we choose pastries over principles!”

Meanwhile, Wistin is scribbling down possible exam questions: “If you eat a pastizz on a Tuesday and no one sees you, does it count as cheat day?”

A Twist Worthy of a Maltese Drama

As they deliberate, Peppi l-il-Ħajjat, a notorious local news peddler, overhears and decides to escalate the situation by spinning a story: “Ethical Debacle as Teens Choose Pastries Over Principles!” he titles his piece, causing an immediate uproar across the islands. Suddenly, the subject choice isn’t so private anymore.

The National Pastizzi Debate

The story spreads like wildfire over social media, with everyone from Marsaxlokk to Ċirkewwa chiming in. A national debate is called, held fittingly at the majestic Mosta Dome, moderated by none other than the beloved TV host, Karmena Aħjarminnek. With her infectious laugh, she addresses the audience:

“Welcome, għażiż viewers, to the great Maltese conundrum: Ethics or Pastizzi? Tonight, we will settle this once and for all!”

The Climactic Resolution

Wistin, Salvu, and Żeża, now dubbed ‘The O-Level Three’, stand before the crowd, bravely presenting their cases. As the debate rages on, an unexpected visitor takes the stage – the great Maltese chef, Tista’ Timmintendi, known for his revolutionary ħobż biż-żejt with a modern twist.

“Kollox goes well with a bit of humor,” he declares. “Why not combine the subjects? Ethics taught through the cultural lens of pastizzi-making – call it ‘Ethical Pastizzology’!” The crowd gasps at the ingenious proposal.

A Unified Field of Study

The Ministry of Education is quickly on board, and so ‘Ethical Pastizzology’ is born. “It’s the perfect solution,” enthuses Salvu. “Now I can discuss the ethics of eating pastizzi while actually eating pastizzi!”

“It’s a win-win,” Wistin adds, barely audible with a mouth full of his favorite ricotta-filled treat. “We get to keep our ethics and our taste buds satisfied too!”

Żeża nods in agreement, her ‘Save the Rabbit’ badge glinting in the spotlight. “Plus, no rabbits are harmed in the making of pastizzi,” she smiles.

Conclusion: A Future Where Morals Meet Melts

In the end, The O-Level Three become an unstoppable team, advocates for ethical pastizzology across the islands, and surprisingly, academic performance increases by 32%. Who knew ethics could be so appetizing?

Peppi l-il-Ħajjat tries to claim credit for the idea, but everyone knows the truth – it was a collective appetite for change that shaped the future of Maltese education. And perhaps, that’s the biggest twist of all.

What’s Next for O-Levels?

The Times of Mela is all ears as rumblings from the Ministry suggest a new O-Level subject on the horizon: “Karozzin Management and Horse Ethics – Keeping the Wheels of Tradition Turning.” But that’s a story for another day!