James Calleja

“As MCAST celebrates its 20th anniversary, we can look back and be proud of its growth. With a clear plan, we can now look ahead with an outward-looking and responsive role to the changing labour market,” MCAST Principal and CEO Joachim James Calleja said, as the college launched the consultation process for its new Act and the Strategic Plan 2022-2027.

“Being a community college means that learners will consider MCAST not simply as an institution where you enrol for two or four years but as a place where one can continue learning and designing their career,” he continued.

Both the Act and the Strategic Plan 2022-2027 aim to strengthen vocational and professional education in Malta and the MCAST’s position as a community college for all.

The proposed new legislation means MCAST will have an act of its own that is distinct and separate from the Education Act. The Act seeks to provide further autonomy to MCAST and address the industry developments by providing quality vocational education and training. It also promotes strengthening accountability and transparency.

Meanwhile, in the Strategic Plan 2022-2027, MCAST sets its ambition to sustain the strategic direction and to strengthen its links to the community. This will include closer cooperation with public and private entities to build a more dynamic workforce. It also prioritises the structured use of its resources to empower active citizenship and support lifelong learning.

President of the Board of Governors Ian Refalo spoke of the significance of this act for VET education, describing it as an important milestone for education but also for industry. Speaking about the importance of the consultation process, Director for Strategy Implementation Edel Cassar announced that an online consultation meeting for employers will be held online on 25th May, while the draft document and information are available on the MCAST website. The consultation period closes on 18th June.

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