The Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST) welcomed Her Excellency, the President of Malta, Myriam Spiteri Debono, to its Main Campus in Paola on 05th March 2026 during the IBMC Career EXPO. The event forms part of the College’s ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration between academia and industry, while supporting students as they prepare for their future careers.

Her Excellency was welcomed by the President of the Board of Governors, Mr Horace Laudi, together with the Director of the Institute of Business Management and Commerce (IBMC), Mr Andrew Galea.

In her address to staff and students, the President spoke of her continued interest in the IBMC EXPO, noting that it was among the first events she attended following her appointment. This year marked her third visit to the EXPO, where she once again highlighted the important role of vocational education and training in connecting education with the world of industry. She commended MCAST for its ongoing commitment to equipping students with the knowledge, practical experience, and skills required to succeed in today’s professional environment. During the visit, photography students from the Institute for the Creative Arts presented one of their works as a gesture of appreciation for the President’s presence.

Held over two days, the IBMC Career EXPO 2026 provided an important networking opportunity for students interested in careers within the business and finance sectors. Now in its fifth edition, the event continues to bring students and industry representatives together, offering valuable insights into the professional landscape and future employment opportunities. This year’s EXPO featured 21 exhibitors from a variety of industries.

The Institute of Business Management and Commerce currently supports over 1,300 students enrolled in full-time programmes covering areas such as management, marketing, accountancy, finance, and other business-related disciplines. Courses range from entry-level qualifications to Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, ensuring students develop both technical expertise and the transferable skills needed for the workplace.

In addition to its focus on career development, the IBMC Career EXPO also incorporated a philanthropic element. Approximately €9,000 in donations were presented to the Malta Community Chest Fund Foundation, reflecting MCAST’s commitment to community engagement alongside its educational mission.

MCAST extends its appreciation to all industry partners who participated in the EXPO, with alterDomus* serving as the Platinum Partner. Other key contributors included:

Gold Partners:

Atlas Insurance PCC Ltd

RSM Malta

FIAU (Financial Intelligence Analysis Unit)

Local Councils’ Association

Malta Diary Products

Silver Partners:

Bank of Valletta plc

Malta Public Service

Salvo Grima

HSBC

Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA)

Finductive

FJVA

Forvis Mazars in Malta

EY

Baystreet Group

AG Advisory

Ministry For Health and Active Ageing

MITA (Malta Information Technology Agency)

Not-for-Profit Partners:

Apprenticeship & WBL Department

The Malta Institute of Accountants (MIA)