The Minister for European Funds, Social Dialogue and Consumer Protection, Keith Azzopardi Tanti, together with the Minister for Education and Sport, Byron Camilleri, announced the launch of two new strategic projects at MCAST, supported by an investment of more than €1.3 million in European funds. The projects will lead to the development of new and advanced infrastructure at MCAST, while creating new opportunities for Maltese students, researchers and businesses.
The first project, with a total investment of €855,500, including a €775,750 grant from European funds, will establish Malta’s first Single-Stage Light-Gas Gun Impact Testing Facility. The facility will enable controlled high-velocity testing in fields such as aviation and aerospace. This investment will strengthen the research and innovation sector by providing researchers, academics and industry with access to high-precision experimental infrastructure.
The second project, with an investment of approximately €676,000, including a €556,400 grant from European funds, will establish a Metal Additive Manufacturing Research and Training Facility. The facility will introduce advanced industrial-grade technologies and will be used for applied research, hands-on training, prototype development and collaboration with industry.
In his address, Minister Keith Azzopardi Tanti, emphasized that the purpose of European funds is for them to be translated into real opportunities that shape and strengthen the future of our country. “The investment in these projects is clear evidence of how European funds are being translated into new and tangible capabilities, while also reflecting the type of modern economy we want to build for the future — one based on innovation, science and the creation of added value.”
Minister Azzopardi Tanti concluded by thanking MCAST’s management, researchers and the wider College community for their vision, meticulous preparation and commitment to turning these projects into a tangible reality.
Minister Byron Camilleri said that this investment will provide MCAST students with further opportunities for specialized practical learning and training, while continuing to align the skills they acquire with the constantly evolving needs of industry.
“This investment is a clear example of the direction we want to continue giving education in our country: from knowledge to competence, from learning to application, and from qualifications to opportunities. Through these facilities, MCAST students will not only learn about advanced technologies, but will also be able to use them, carry out research and develop skills that bring them closer to the needs of industry. We want an education system that looks ahead, prepares students for the opportunities of tomorrow and gives them the tools to fulfill their potential,” said Minister Camilleri.
MCAST Chief Executive Officer, Stephen Vella, also commented on the importance of the two projects, highlighting how they will enable the College to move further into a new era of research. He also expressed his gratitude for the European funding being provided to MCAST.
