The Malta College of Arts, Science, and Technology (MCAST) held the Opening Ceremony to celebrate the new academic year 2023-2024 at the Paola Campus on 2 October.

In the first two calls for applications, the College received new applications from over 4,000, an overall increase of 21% compared to last year’s applications. Positive trends were observed across all six institutes, with an encouraging increase in STEM-related courses. Over five years, applications for courses in STEM increased by 16%, including a 66% increase in female student uptake.

Addressing participants, Minister for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation Clifton Grima said, “Over the past years, there was a significant investment in education infrastructure to modernise the campus and learning environment at MCAST. We invest in students by offering courses at all levels and focusing on excellence and quality education. It is with great satisfaction that we see students’ enthusiasm in continuing their education at the College.

By September, MCAST received around 8,408 applications from new and returning students for full-time courses. Youths recognise the importance of investing in their future to widen their knowledge and discover new skills, sending a clear message that they want to learn by doing  and having access to the world of employment.”

MCAST Principal and CEO Professor Joachim James Calleja said, “ The College’s diversity is reflected in the staff and student population and the learning offer with over 200 courses at different levels. We aim to enhance the vocational education and training experience through apprenticeships, collaborations with industry partners, and investments in our campus and academic facilities. Only with support from all stakeholders can we ensure that all students are successfully prepared for employment.” MCAST Principal lamented that many students are still without an apprenticeship programme, some of whom are at risk of not graduating. He invited employers to knock on MCAST doors and recruit students as apprentices. “This,” he said “, is an investment for employers as much as it benefits learners”.

Kunsill Studenti MCAST Acting President Rohasia Zammit spoke about embracing diversity within the college community. She appealed to students to actively participate in student life and voice their concerns about societal challenges. Addressing employers, she appealed to them to offer learning opportunities to students through work-based learning.

Students from different faiths were invited to share their prayers and reflections for the new academic year during the ceremony. The music was performed by Doreen Galea, who sang Maltese poetry by Dun Karm, Ruzar Briffa and Anton Buttigieg. She was accompanied by her son Dominic Galea on piano. Students Faye Mifsud Midolo and Edmilson Zammit hosted the Ceremony.

MCAST has now opened one final call for student applications, which close on 6 October.