Prime Minister Robert Abela, together with Ministers Clifton Grima and Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, inaugurated the new Information and Communication Technology (IICT) building at MCAST’s main campus in Kordin. The building, which forms part of MCAST’s ‘Masterplan 2′, began being used by students in 2024 and is now being officially inaugurated with an investment of €14.5 million co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund.
Spread over 11,900 square metres, the new institute includes 58 new learning spaces, including 30 computer labs, 16 classrooms, 5 hardware labs, 2 network labs, game development labs, and research spaces including in the field of artificial intelligence. Students also have access to green screen facilities, a robotics lab and a number of other modern facilities that showcase the variety of ICT subjects that MCAST is offering.
During his visit, the Prime Minister had the opportunity to meet with students during their lessons in various laboratories including gaming, networking, robotics and Raspberry Pi. These new facilities are providing a hands-on learning experience while facilitating students’ access to innovative equipment and technologies that enhance their training in this rapidly growing industry.
Every year, more than a thousand students follow courses related to information and communication technology, including software development, iGaming, cyber security and computer networking. MCAST is providing a complete educational path starting from basic level and reaching Masters level, with the aim of preparing students for quality careers.
During this visit, Prime Minister Robert Abela explained how when we invest in education, we are not only investing in buildings but in the ambition and future of our students. “What I saw here today is a digital future that is being built by our children, the leaders of tomorrow. Through this investment and others like it, it shows how much this Government believes in the talent of our students and will continue to give everyone the opportunity to reach their full potential”, said the Prime Minister.
The Prime Minister also noted how this investment is part of a holistic direction towards the Malta 2050 Vision which recognises that the best opportunities in the digital core should continue to be taken by Maltese and Gozitan youth. Dr Abela also mentioned the Government’s investment which continues to incentivise study, including a 15% increase in stipends and a grant of up to €1,500 to parents of children who continue to study after compulsory education.
This project is part of a €32.9 million investment that includes three new buildings on this campus, all designed to enhance education, innovation and opportunities for students.
Minister for Education, Sports, Youth, Research and Innovation Clifton Grima stressed that “This investment not only improves the educational experience of ICT students, but also strengthens our vision of building a modern educational system in step with the needs of the digital economy. Such a building gives our students the best environment in which to learn, develop their skills and prepare themselves for successful careers in a sector that is constantly evolving.”
The Minister for European Funds and the Implementation of the Electoral Programme, Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, reiterated the importance of the country continuing to invest in education and skills development, particularly in the field of technology and ICT. He stressed that the opening of the new IICT building at MCAST is another step towards building a ‘Malta of skills’, which prepares students and workers for a rapidly evolving digital world.
“With investments like these, we are ensuring that our youth have the best environment, the most modern technology and the skills needed to succeed in a world that changes every day. This building is not just a structure; it is a promise that Malta will continue to build on the potential of its people,” said Minister Zrinzo Azzopardi.
Photos: DOI/OPM
