Knights College CEO says education sector must protect students left stranded

On 19th August, students of the now-defunct International European University (IEU) Malta campus voiced concern after being instructed to leave Malta with immediate effect, following the revocation of the institution’s licence after an audit

In response, Knights College has announced a special scholarship initiative to offer a way forward for affected international students. The scholarships will be available for three accredited diploma pathways – Business Management, Hospitality, and Adult Care – subject to standard entry requirements.

Morgan Parnis, Chancellor and CEO of Knights College, said the initiative was about upholding values at a moment when trust in Malta as a study destination risks being undermined.

“Education should empower people. When students are left stranded, at Knights we believe it is our duty to live the values we speak about and provide a credible way forward. This initiative reflects our commitment to stand with students in difficult times, and to protect Malta’s reputation as a serious study destination,” Mr Parnis said.

He also stressed that longer-term reforms are needed to ensure such a situation does not repeat itself. “While this initiative focuses on supporting the affected students today, we also believe that safeguards should be in place to ensure that such a situation never happens again. We will gladly share our recommendations with MFHEA and the Ministry of Education, alongside other higher education providers, so that stronger protections are built for students in the future. For now, our priority is to stand with those who have been left without a way forward.”

The initiative will see students asked for a fully refundable 20 per cent deposit, which will be returned upon successful completion of the programme. Should students fail to meet attendance or performance requirements, the deposit will instead be redirected to local charities or a scholarship fund for disadvantaged learners. Knights College has underlined that it will not retain these contributions.

In addition, the college invited its tutors, on a voluntary basis, to dedicate some of their time to support affected students. “This is not just Knights College as an institution,” Mr Parnis added. “It is our people, our tutors, who are personally invested in helping students through what is for them a very dark moment. Their commitment shows that education is built on people who care, and I am proud to stand alongside them.”

Knights College has also been in discussions with the relevant authorities to ensure alignment with national rules and procedures. Identità has confirmed that student visas will be renewed once affected students present an acceptance letter from Knights College, subject to the usual due diligence checks.

Looking ahead, Mr Parnis urged other institutions to step forward as well. “Knights College is ready to take this initiative forward on its own, but we also welcome collaboration. Any licensed institution that wishes to embark on a similar scholarship initiative and join us in this effort is invited to reach out. This is not about one organisation alone, but about building a movement where good prevails over injustice.”