The Kunsill Studenti MCAST (KSM), supported by the Malta College for Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST), organised a series of educational, political dialogues at the College.

Key political speakers were invited for these question-and-answer dialogues. Institute of Creative Arts BA Journalism students prepared questions for all speakers invited. The students’ turnout, activism, and participation during these four debates were encouraging and highlighted their critical thinking skills.

These educational, political dialogues kicked off with Opposition Leader Dr Bernard Grech. On his part, Dr Grech stressed how important it is to continue incentivising students to be active in the political sphere and helping them succeed through work apprenticeships and voluntary work. When asked about his plans for the educational sector, Dr Grech argued that “the ten niche economic sectors on which the party is focusing on will help provide better jobs and salaries for future workers, hence to current day students”. Dr Grech elaborated that he is committed to continuing investing in MCAST by creating a new MCAST campus in Gozo and widening courses offered by the College.

During the second educational, political dialogue, a debate with the theme, ‘Women in Politics’ was held. The discussion centred around the participation of women in the political arena. Dr Alison Zerafa Civelli, Ms Bernice Bonello, Hon. Claudette Buttigieg and Ms Rebecca Buttigieg were invited to this debate. During the conversation, speakers and participants discussed initiatives on how women can be empowered to break barriers and enter the political sphere.

During the third educational, political dialogue speakers, Mr Gabriel Micallef, Ms Romina Tolu, Ms Melissa Bagley, and Mr Georvin Bugeja were invited. The participation of youths in politics was the theme discussed with MCAST students. During this talk, the importance of having young individuals contribute to politics and stand up to be heard.

These educational political dialogues ended with Prime Minister Dr Robert Abela. When asked by students following journalism courses at MCAST, Dr Abela said that his goal is to “find a balance between working and studying for students” this is why one of the proposals aims to allow students to work for 30 hours while still receiving an increased stipend. During this debate, Dr Abela highlighted the importance of apprenticeships and how these enable students to experience the real world of work.