During a consultation meeting with the Malta Union of Teachers (MUT) at Auberge de Castille, Prime Minister Robert Abela reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to continue prioritising what is best for our children by maintaining strong investment in the education sector. He noted that this investment benefits everyone, students and also educators who in recent months have seen significant improvements through agreements that delivered salary increases and substantial enhancements to their working conditions
The Prime Minister underlined that open dialogue and constructive discussions with educators and stakeholders have consistently led to positive milestones. “Last year we concluded five sectoral agreements covering state, Church, and independent schools. We invested over €95 million in these agreements, directly benefitting 7,766 educators,” Dr Abela said. Adding that these agreements have given educators long-awaited recognition for their professional progress through qualification allowances, as well as adjustments that reflect their workload. At the same time, continued investment in schools is providing modern learning spaces and better resources.
“We are giving a strong boost to digital education and STEM. Our country must continue preparing a workforce equipped with the skills needed for the future, while remaining at the forefront of innovation, development, and progress,” the Prime Minister stated. He added that more than 9,300 devices are being distributed to students through the One Device Per Child programme, and that the new Digital Education Strategy will introduce innovative, AI-based tools to further enhance learning.
The Prime Minister noted that the number of children leaving school early has dropped to 9.6%. This means that today we have the lowest level of early school leavers compared to previous years.
Ministers Clifton Grima and Julia Farrugia, Parliamentary Secretary Rebecca Buttigieg, Members of Parliament Rosianne Cutajar and Abigail Camilleri and the Head of Secretariat at the Office of the Prime Minister Mark Mallia were also present for the meeting.
