Minister for Education, Sports, Youth, Research and Innovation Clifton Grima addressed the launch of the National Skills Strategy, which is being put out for public consultation.
This strategy is the result of a two-year process, led by the National Skills Council, with input from various stakeholders, institutions, industry representatives and social partners. The event also acknowledged the contribution of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, OECD, the European Commission, as well as all those who contributed to this process.
In his address, Minister Clifton Grima pointed out that education, training and lifelong learning are among the main foundations for the country to continue strengthening the capabilities of its people and preparing them for the challenges and opportunities of the future.
“I firmly believe that education, training and lifelong learning are the foundations through which we give people the tools to face the future with more confidence,” said Minister Clifton Grima.
The Chairman of the National Skills Council Dr Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando stated that, “The strategy continues to strengthen the direction of the Malta 2050 Vision, which places people at the centre of national development, while seeking to ensure that learning systems are more relevant, inclusive and responsive to change.”
Among its key principles is the need to continue to strengthen access to learning for all, while also addressing the mentalities that sometimes hold people back from investing in their development. This is because learning should not be seen as something limited to a certain stage of life, but as a process that continues throughout life.
The strategy also recognises that skills development does not stop with compulsory education, but continues through vocational, tertiary and adult learning education, while better responding to the changing needs of society and the world of work.
In this context, skills development remains a crucial element for Malta to continue strengthening its competitiveness, innovation, productivity and social well-being.
Minister Clifton Grima concluded by encouraging the public and all stakeholders to participate in the public consultation, with the aim of jointly shaping a strategy that continues to support more opportunities, more resilience and more lifelong learning.
The Public Consultation will remain open until Wednesday 20th May. The document can be obtained from the site: https://www.gov.mt/en/publicconsultation/Pages/2026/NL-0012-2026.aspx where one can also leave their comments or suggestions.
Photo: DOI/MEYR
