The Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST) and the Malta Council for Science and Technology (MCST) signed a Memorandum Agreement on 16 November. The collaboration will prioritise crucial sectors, namely,  research and innovation, training and creating student learning opportunities. With this agreement, MCAST students will have more opportunities to experience work related to their courses and chosen career path.

The Minister for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation, Clifton Grima and the Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research and Innovation, Keith Azzopardi Tanti, presided over the signing of the agreement. Deputy Principal Research and Innovation Dr Tatjana Chircop represented the College, and Chairperson Dr Tonio Portughese signed on behalf of MCST.

 

Minister Grima spoke about the measures announced in the budget and the work of the College in strengthening apprenticeships and creating opportunities for students.

“We are investing in students so they can excel in their studies, improve their skills, and progress in their careers. We are also seeing more cooperation between all entities to prioritise research, in this case in a subject so important to our country: Science. We want to continue bringing Science closer to the public while ensuring that research is carried out in areas that can positively impact our lives, ” said Minister Grima.

Parliamentary Secretary Keith Azzopardi Tanti emphasised that such agreements were crucial to research development. He said, “The Government continues to invest fully in research and innovation to create new economic niches for the country and help citizens in the most important sectors, including health. Testament to this is the Government’s investment of €800,000 for cancer research in Malta.” He said that the investment in research and innovation is proof of the Government’s long-term vision, with the ultimate goal of improving people’s quality of life.

 

The Deputy The Principal Deputy for Research and Innovation, Dr Tatjna Chircop, said, “Through this collaboration, the College will continue strengthening initiatives that promote science and research. We want the College students to learn while experiencing the world of work. This is crucial for us because we believe that learning is not only about theory but also about practice through work-based learning. At the same time, learners will be encouraged to continue to advance in their studies and to conduct research.”

 

The Maltese Council for Science and Technology Chairman, Dr Tonio Portughese, said, “We are committed to strengthening our collaboration with MCAST through this agreement. Through Esplora and MCST, we will provide MCAST students with work experiences while strengthening the coordination between both entities, planning and carrying out initiatives in science communication.”