The logo representing Malta during its upcoming Presidency of the Council of Europe has been designed by student Shelley Borg from the MCAST’s Institute for the Creative Arts, demonstrating creative talent and applied learning at the College. The logo was unveiled on Tuesday by Foreign Minister Ian Borg during an event at the Mediterranean Conference Centre.

Second-year BA (Hons) Graphic Design students from MCAST’s Institute for the Creative Arts were invited to take on the prestigious commission by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and the Ministry for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade. The selected design, by student Shelley Borg, will serve as the official brandmark for the Presidency, which Malta will hold from May to November 2025.

The project marks Malta’s second time assuming this important international role and coincides with the 60th anniversary of the country’s accession to the Council of Europe.

Seventeen students participated in the process, each submitting a logo that reflected the values of the Presidency – democracy, human rights, and the rule of law while interpreting Malta’s place within a modern European context. The final selection was based on originality, thematic coherence, and professional execution.

Speaking at the launch of the brandmark, Deputy Principal Dr Mario Cardona praised the students’ “dedication, creativity, and professionalism,” describing the collaboration as “more than just a design project; it is a testament to MCAST’s commitment to real-world learning.”

“This initiative shows how education can empower students, foster collaboration, and contribute meaningfully to national identity,” he said, thanking the students, the Institute’s Director, Dr Martina Caruana, lecturers, and MCAST administration for their “hard work and passion in shaping the future of Malta’s creative industries.”

Shelley Borg, whose design was chosen, described the experience as both challenging and rewarding. Her logo, inspired by Malta’s geographical form and its European identity, will now be featured across official channels during the Presidency. “My logo is based on symbols evoking the essence of our identity: the sun, the sea, the luzzu, with the spiral at its centre – such as the one found etched in stone in our megalithic temples – which inspires continuous change, where young people play a central role,” the student explained.

Senior Lecturer Darren Duncan, who guided the students through the project, noted that the quality of work produced “continues to exceed expectations,” with the project reinforcing MCAST’s role as a launchpad for professional success in the creative sector.

The Ministry expressed its appreciation for the students’ professionalism and fresh perspectives, highlighting the importance of involving young creatives in shaping Malta’s international image.

MCAST thanks the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Tourism for entrusting the logo of such a momentous occasion to MCAST students.