Opening of Academic Year 2017-2018

The University of Malta on Monday marked the official opening of Academic Year 2017-2018.

New Maltese and international students were welcomed by the rector, Professor Alfred J. Vella and by KSU president, Robert Napier. The University Wind Ensemble directed by Dr Philip Ciantar, provided musical interludes. The University Wind Ensemble operates as part of the DegreePlus Programme, an initiative of the University of Malta

The University of Malta also rolled out the introduction of its new visual identity. The logo for the UM has undergone a significant change despite its main characteristics remaining those inspired by Grandmaster Pinto’s coat of arms. The new logo seeks to satisfy all existing expectations of the original crest but at the same time moves the brand identity forward in anticipation of further developments especially in the areas of both research and teaching.

The Ceremonial Crest has been retained and will be used by the Office of the Rector and for special occasions celebrated by the University of Malta, including the Opening of the Academic Year, graduation ceremonies, Honoris Causa ceremonies and similar occasions.

The rector focussed this year's opening ceremony speech on the importance of research and the need to question knowledge constantly.

In his address the rector drew on the visionary work undertaken by Wilhelm von Humboldt in Prussia which led to a whole rethinking behind the rationale for universities in Europe and elsewhere.

Professor Vella argued that research should not only be undertaken to address the pressing needs dictated by industry but also to reflect the true spirit of von Humboldt's premise that knowledge is something still not completely discovered and never completely discoverable.

The issue of plagiarism was another theme of this year's speech by the rector. He cautioned on the ever increasing temptation for students to plagiarise the work of others, citing readily available resources on the internet as contributing to this phenomenon.

By way of conclusion Professor Vella acknowledged that obtaining a degree was in no way a walk in the park but involved the right balance between studying, research and full involvement in student life, which should help all Freshers reach their academic goals. The rector later opened the KSU Freshers’ Week. The inauguration mass at the University chapel was celebrated by Chaplain Rev. Fr Mark Cachia.