St Edward’s College, which is under the responsibility of the Lands Authority, has been transferred on a temporary emphyteusis title for a period of sixty-five years. Prime Minister Robert Abela stressed that this step ensures long-term stability for this prestigious educational institution, while allowing for further investment in its facilities and continued development.
St Edward’s College is one of the most established and respected schools in Malta. It is located in Vittoriosa and was founded in 1929 with the aim of providing a high level of education. This private educational institution accommodates 670 students, offers education from primary to secondary, and also includes a system where students aged eleven and above can live in the college during the scholastic year.
Today, the college welcomes students from 38 different countries, a fact that further strengthens the international character of this college. A college that is known for its discipline, strong values and commitment to the holistic development of students.
Prime Minister Robert Abela stressed that today’s agreement, for a period of sixty-five years, is much more than an administrative step, but is also a clear and deliberate investment in stability, continuity and, above all, in the future of education in our country.
“This agreement provides the long-term certainty needed for the College to be able to plan ahead with confidence, invest in its facilities and continue to evolve in line with the educational needs of today,” stressed Dr Abela.
Dr Abela noted that in recent years, unprecedented investments have been made in all sectors of education in our country. Five sectoral agreements have been reached covering State schools, Church schools and independent schools, and another important agreement was recently reached for academic staff at the University of Malta. Government support for independent schools has also been strengthened, while the vital role they play in our educational ecosystem has been further recognised. Through other initiatives, including the investment of €27 million spread over five years, the Government is ensuring that these institutions can continue to provide quality education, while remaining accessible and sustainable.
“These investments are yielding concrete results. Educators are receiving the recognition they deserve through better conditions, allowances linked to their qualifications, and fair adjustments to the work they do. At the same time, students are benefiting from modern, adequate and well-equipped learning environments”, said the Prime Minister.
He pointed out that as a country we are advancing digital education and strengthening the emphasis on STEM subjects, to ensure that Malta remains at the forefront of innovation, development and progress.
“At the heart of the Malta 2050 Vision is a clear and strong commitment: to place education at the heart of our country’s long-term social and economic development, and to recognise it as the main driver for more opportunities, more innovation and a better quality of life for all,” said Prime Minister Robert Abela.
Minister for Culture, the Arts and Local Government, Owen Bonnici, said that this transfer is an important step in ensuring that an institution of historical and educational value such as St Edward’s College continues to strengthen and look to the future with confidence. He maintained that this agreement provides the necessary foundations for the college to continue to invest in the quality of education and the well-being of its students, while safeguarding its unique historical heritage.
The history of this college dates back to 1878, when it was originally built as the Cottonera Military Hospital, designed in the style of British military architecture and linked to plans attributed to Florence Nightingale. This building played an important role during the First World War and contributed to Malta earning the title of ‘The Nurse of the Mediterranean’. In 1929, the hospital was converted into a school, and since then the college has continued to expand and develop, including through modern educational and sports facilities that complement its historical heritage.
The transfer was signed by the Chief Executive of the Lands Authority, Robert Vella, together with representatives of St Edward’s College.
Photos (DOI/OPM)
