Prime Minister Robert Abela, during meetings with students at \u0120.F. Abela Junior College and the University of Malta as part of this year\u2019s Freshers\u2019 Week, underlined the importance of continuing one\u2019s studies as a means of moving forward in life. He reaffirmed the Government\u2019s commitment to stand alongside students in helping them achieve their ambitions and aspirations. The Prime Minister stressed that stipends will remain in place to support students throughout their educational journey.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are the Government that doubled stipends. Today we are providing twice the support compared to previous administrations, with an investment of over \u20ac40 million,\u201d said Prime Minister Abela, who was accompanied by his wife, Dr Lydia Abela. Together, they engaged with many students and discussed a wide range of issues.<\/p>\n
The Prime Minister further emphasised that the Government is determined to continue offering the very best to young people and their families throughout an educational path that extends beyond compulsory education. He noted that Malta\u2019s rate of early school leavers has fallen below 10%, and efforts must continue to reduce this even further. He highlighted the annual \u20ac500 grant, available for three years, up to a maximum of \u20ac1,500, which has provided valuable support to parents and students who remain in education. This year, more than 12,000 parents, representing nearly 14,000 students are benefitting from this measure, with a total investment of \u20ac7 million dedicated to supporting continued studies.<\/p>\n
In open discussions with students at both Junior College and the University, the Prime Minister also underlined the importance of youth activism, encouraging young people to keep driving forward fresh ideas to help improve the country. He referred to the Youth Advisory Forum, now in its second term, which serves as a Youth Cabinet where the government engages directly with young people on key issues.<\/p>\n
During Freshers\u2019 Week, Prime Minister Abela, together with Minister for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation, Clifton Grima, also toured various stands, including those of student organisations. The new academic year welcomes around 5,200 students at the University of Malta, including 2,100 who will be undertaking postgraduate courses. At Junior College, there are about 2,100 students studying, with half of them being new students.<\/p>\n
Photo: DOI\/OPM<\/em><\/p>\n