MCESD discusses work on the national strategy for education 2024-2030
During an MCESD meeting, discussions were held on the work being done to implement the national strategy for education 2024-2030 and how investment in education has the ability to improve our society and ensure economic prosperity.
During this meeting, the study on the National Living Income, conducted by the General Workers' Union in partnership with the Alliance Against Poverty (AKF) and Moviment Graffitti, was also discussed.
Present for this meeting were the Minister for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation Clifton Grima, the Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue Andy Ellul, the General Workers' Union, the
Alliance Against Poverty (AKF), Moviment Graffitti and other social partners.
On his part Ellul recognised the importance of upskilling and retraining as essential elements in shaping Malta's future prosperity. He said when it comes to the role of education, the necessary skills are needed to be able to respond to the demand for quality works.
He said that it is important to keep the social dialogue alive between the government and the social partners to continue to strengthen it to arrive to wise decisions that benefit everyone.
A presentation was made by Minister Grima during which he explained the gist of the National Strategy for Education – a strategy that transforms the sector by placing the student at its centre.
"The educational system exists to ensure that our children are holistic citizens who have the necessary skills to achieve their aspirations and dreams," he said, adding that this is a strategy that will lead the sector until 2030.
In a separate statement, the MCESD said that throughout the meeting, the social partners actively engaged in discussions related to the transformation of the country's education system, "recognising its broad-reaching impact on various aspects of the nation, including the quality of life for both workers, employers and citizens at large".
"Concrete proposals were put forth by the social partners, emphasising the importance of prioritising skills and trades, which are currently lacking in the labour market. They also discussed the need for a robust monitoring system to ensure the effective implementation and evaluation of the strategy. Furthermore, the social partners stressed the importance of equipping students with crosssectoral skills, encompassing behaviour and personal qualities, to enhance collaboration and problem-solving abilities."
"The meeting highlighted the necessity for professional and high-quality guidance services for students, as well as the importance of improving collaboration and synergies between the University of Malta and MCAST, which is considered a must. There was consensus on the need to enhance apprenticeship experiences to further develop students' skills and foster critical thinking."
"Discussions suggested that education is not solely a process of preparation for the labour market but a holistic personal development opportunity. Increased support for individuals with disabilities to foster independent living skills was advocated and the importance of prioritising mental health in schools was emphasised."