The Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST), in collaboration with STMicroelectronics Malta, has officially launched a new upskilling programme aimed at strengthening workforce capabilities within the high-technology manufacturing sector.

The initiative marks an important milestone in the ongoing collaboration between the two organisations, reflecting a shared commitment to developing a future-ready, skills-driven workforce through continuous learning and closer alignment between education and industry.

As MCAST celebrates its 25th anniversary, the launch also highlights the longstanding relationship between the College and STMicroelectronics, a company with over 45 years of presence in Malta’s engineering and manufacturing sectors. The partnership continues to play a key role in supporting the country’s industrial and technological development.

The programme will offer structured learning pathways across multiple MQF levels, including Level 2, Level 3 and Level 5 qualifications in high-technology manufacturing and semiconductor-related fields. These include the Undergraduate Diploma in High Technology Manufacturing (60 ECTS) and the Award in High Technology Manufacturing (24 ECTS), alongside specialised training in semiconductor operations and team leadership.

Designed to support employees in balancing professional responsibilities with further education, the programme focuses on practical, industry-relevant skills development. It forms part of a broader effort to upskill the workforce in response to evolving technological demands and production environments.

This collaboration reinforces MCAST’s strategic positioning as a centre for high-technology and semiconductor education and training, including its role within the Semiconductor Competence Centre, supporting Malta’s contribution to this critical sector at both European and global levels.

Speaking at the launch, MCAST Principal and CEO Stephen Vella said:

“These courses represent not only personal progress, but also an investment in the future of Malta’s high-technology sector. Partnerships like the one we share with STMicroelectronics are essential in ensuring that learning remains relevant, accessible and closely aligned with industry needs.”

The launch of this programme represents a continued investment in human capital, strengthening collaboration between academia and industry while supporting Malta’s long-term economic and technological ambitions.