The Malta College for Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST) celebrated the graduation mass for 2020 graduands on Tuesday 7 September at St John’s Co-Cathedral.

Present for the mass were graduands from MCAST’s six institutes, the President of the Board of Governors Professor Ian Refalo, Principal and CEO Professor Joachim James Calleja, Deputy Principals, the Registrar and Directors.

In his homily, MCAST Chaplain Father Richard Ebejer encouraged graduates to persevere in their chosen careers and value honesty. “You will face many different challenges and obstacles throughout your life journey. Beyond all success, we need to remember that integrity is one of the most valuable qualities anyone can have in their life, and this value should guide you as you make important decisions.”

Addressing the participants, College President Professor Ian Refalo said that the graduation ceremony is the highlight of the College’s academic year and the culmination of the students’ hard work, particularly in the extraordinary pandemic circumstances. He thanked the College’s community for coming together to ensure that every student succeeds.

Last year’s graduations were delayed because of COVID-19 restrictions on social gatherings. The College has been planning the September graduation ceremonies rigorously following the health authority’s guidelines prioritising the safety of its staff and students. The ceremonies will be spread out in individual sessions from 10 September to 17 September. A plan of action and protocol is also in place for the November celebrations, and the College will continue to update its guidelines according to the health regulations.

Commenting on this year’s particular circumstances, Principal and CEO Professor Joachim James Calleja said, “We know that students were disappointed last year when they were eagerly waiting to celebrate their success. The College wants to ensure that their efforts and success are acknowledged while organising everything following the current health regulations. This is a unique cohort, one that has persisted against all odds throughout such a difficult time. We are proud of every one of our graduates.”

In the coming days, around 2,350 graduands will be celebrating their success following last year’s difficult decision to postpone the ceremony after careful consideration and consultation with the health authorities and the MCAST Student Council. Approximately 440 students will be graduating at Masters and Bachelors levels, while 655 and 473 students have completed diplomas at levels 4 and 5. At levels 2 and 3, another 720 students completed their studies.