The Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST) has worked on the restoration of the south campanile wind vane of St John’s Co-Cathedral following damage sustained during Storm Harry on 20 January.

Lecturers and students from MCAST’s Welding and Fabrication workshops carried out the work in collaboration with the St John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation. The project was a practical learning exercise, giving students at the Institute of Engineering and Transport the chance to apply fabrication and repair techniques to a real engineering challenge.

The wind vane was dislodged during severe weather and suffered substantial structural damage when it fell. After assessing the damage, MCAST carried out repairs within its workshop capabilities.

The intervention included welding and brazing works, the fabrication of replacement and reinforcing components, and repairs to the sheet metal panels that had been deformed during the incident. Additional flanges were manufactured and fitted to strengthen the main central shaft, while damaged sections of the vane were carefully restored and realigned.

All work was done voluntarily by MCAST lecturers and students. The project gave participants experience in structural repair, metal fabrication, and problem-solving within a functioning restoration project. The work was recently showcased during the College’s Open Day activities.

The materials required for the intervention were supplied by the St John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation. Throughout the process, the work remained within the technical scope and operational capabilities of the MCAST Welding and Fabrication workshops.

MCAST Principal and Chief Executive Officer, Stephen Vella, said:

“Projects such as this show the value of vocational and applied education. They provide students with the opportunity to work on real-world challenges while developing the technical skills, attention to detail,  and professional standards expected within industry.”

The collaboration also provided students with an opportunity to participate in a project connected to one of Malta’s most recognised national landmarks, while gaining practical experience under the guidance of academic and technical staff.

The restoration is now nearing completion and marks the successful conclusion of a project that combined education, technical skill, and collaboration between MCAST and the St John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation.