MCAST has opened the 2026–27 academic year as the College marks 25 years of vocational and professional education in Malta. 

The Opening Ceremony, themed “Gratitude While Looking Forward”, brought together students, educators, staff and alumni at the MCAST Main Campus in Paola. Minister for Education and Sport Byron Camilleri, President of the Board of Governors Horace Laudi, and MCAST Principal and CEO Stephen Vella attended, along with Deputy Principals and Kunsill Student MCAST (KSM) representatives. 

 

Minister Camilleri said the 25th anniversary was an opportunity to recognise achievements over the past quarter century while looking to the students who will shape the College’s future. 

“Be proud of the vocational path you have chosen. It is not less than any other educational route. Our country needs the skills, talents and professions you are preparing for. Here, you have a place where you can not only learn a trade or profession, but also grow, discover what you are good at and build your future,” Minister Camilleri said.  

He encouraged students to make the most of available opportunities, believe in their abilities, and not be afraid to try. He also called on MCAST to stay focused on the purpose for which the College was established. MCAST President Horace Laudi spoke about good governance, responsible investment and the need for the College to remain relevant to students and industry. 

He referred to investment across MCAST’s Institutes and facilities, including the Institute of Engineering and Transport, the new IICT building, and the MCAST Resource Centre. He said this investment should result in better learning environments, modern equipment, and more opportunities for students.  

Mr Laudi also spoke about student and staff wellbeing and the importance of providing a safe, inclusive and supportive environment. 

Principal and CEO Stephen Vella placed people at the centre of his address. 

“This year has special meaning for us. On 28 September 2001, MCAST welcomed its first group of students. Since then, thousands of students, lecturers, staff, researchers, and professionals have passed through this College and contributed to what MCAST is today,” Mr Vella said. 

“But a good College is not measured only by the number of graduates, the projects it delivers, or the buildings it opens. It is also measured by the experience we give every person who walks through our doors: whether they feel they have a place here, whether their voice is heard, and whether they are given the opportunity to grow.” 

Speaking about the growing use of artificial intelligence, Mr Vella told students not to see technology as making them less relevant. As technology improves at providing quick answers, he said education must place greater value on knowing which questions to ask. 

He said judgement, curiosity, creativity, responsibility and the ability to work with others would remain important human qualities.  

The ceremony also included a contribution by the MCAST Chaplaincy, in collaboration with Fr Eric Cachia, Provincial of the Salesians of Don Bosco in Malta, and MCAST Chaplain Fr Aurelio Mulè Stagno. 

Students took part in the symbolic planting and watering of a seed, representing growth and the care needed for people to develop and reach their potential. The reflection tied in with the ceremony’s theme of gratitude and looking ahead. 

The event also recognised the people who have contributed to MCAST over the past 25 years. MCAST alumna Alexia Micallef hosted the event, and alumnus Luke Agius (Lulu) provided guitar music . 

In the coming weeks, MCAST will launch the MCAST Vision Towards 2030 and the MCAST Artificial Intelligence Strategy. These will set out the College’s plans for the coming years, including its approach to innovation, industry needs, teaching and learning, and the responsible use of artificial intelligence. 

The start of the academic year will continue with MCAST Freshers’ Week, taking place across the College’s campuses from 5 to 9 October.