The Government has continued to strengthen the education profession by signing a new Collective Agreement for more than 160 academic staff at the Junior College. The agreement, reached between the University of Malta and the Malta Union of Teachers, will remain in force until December 2029 and will further improve working conditions, career progression, and professional development opportunities for educators, while continuing to enhance the quality of education provided to Junior College students.
During the signing ceremony, the Minister for Education and Sport, Byron Camilleri, stated that the agreement reflects the Government’s ongoing commitment to recognising the value of educators and the academic profession, while strengthening post-secondary education in Malta.
Students will benefit from an even higher quality of education
“Quality education begins with educators. It is therefore essential that we continue to create the best possible conditions for them to carry out their work to the highest standards. This agreement recognises their dedication, offers greater opportunities for professional development and career progression, and further strengthens the academic profession. By placing greater value on our educators, we are investing directly in the present and future of our students and our country,” said Minister Camilleri.
The Minister added that the Government will continue strengthening the education system through ongoing dialogue with educational institutions and social partners, ensuring that educators have the support and resources they need to continue delivering high-quality education.
The new agreement introduces a number of measures that further strengthen the academic profession at the Junior College, including a clearer career progression structure, improved working conditions and financial package, continued investment in professional development, enhanced recruitment and disciplinary procedures, improved occupational health and safety provisions, and other benefits that reflect the responsibilities of academic staff.
The agreement further strengthens the framework governing educators’ work, providing greater certainty and stability for academic staff while continuing to promote a culture of excellence, innovation, and continuous development at the Junior College.
The Rector of the University of Malta, Professor Alfred J. Vella, said that “The Junior College is a very important part of the University of Malta because the majority of our students come from this college, and it is also our responsibility. I am pleased that we have concluded this Collective Agreement, which I hope will continue to strengthen the college and ensure that students receive an even better educational experience.”
Marco Bonnici, President of the Malta Union of Teachers, said that this is an important agreement in the history of the Junior College within the University of Malta. The agreement continues to recognise the important role of academics at the institution and provides improved conditions of work and financials to the affected grades. He thanked the Ministry for Education and Sport and the University of Malta for this milestone.
The Industrial Relations Unit noted that its work throughout this legislature has remained focused on strengthening workers’ conditions in the education sector. It emphasised that this collective agreement represents another significant step in that direction, with around 160 academic members of the Junior College benefiting from improved employment conditions, particularly through enhancements to their financial package. It was also noted that the agreement creates the necessary conditions for lecturers to continue providing the highest quality education with full commitment to their students. The Industrial Relations Unit also thanked all the parties who contributed to the successful conclusion of this agreement.
Photo: MES
