If you could describe yourself in one word what would it be?

'Passionate.'

 

Why politics? What made you choose to study politics? Did anyone positively influence your decision?

Harry Truman once said that 'politics is the art of getting things done'. I've always loved politics even at a young age. Politics was the talk of the day during my childhood. My father was a keen follower of local and international affairs and this infused me with a thirst for knowledge and understanding. I still remember seeing the demolition of the Berlin Wall on TV and being fascinated with the political impact this had brought to Europe. Back then I was just 10 years old. The dissolution of the Soviet Union and the first Gulf War followed soon after which continued to fuel my interest.

 

Why are you so interested in American politics?

In the 20^th century, the United States emerged as a world superpower mainly due to its economic and military prowess.  So it is always fascinating to see how leaders of this great nation played a role in shaping world history.

 

You are both a lecturer and the Head of Department of Public Policy at the University of Malta. How would you improve teaching and learning at the Department of Public Policy?

First, I am lucky to work at a Department with a rich history of excellent teaching and research. The motto has been 'making leaders out of ordinary people'. So I feel the responsibility to prolong this legacy and continue this tradition. The Prime Minister, Dr Joseph Muscat, is a graduate of the Department, and so are many other leaders from both public and private enterprise.

As far as teaching is concerned, I prefer to use the word 'sharing'. Education is a two-way learning process. There needs to be an effort to think about new solutions, to engage with real life issues and challenge established notions. So I try to make lessons fun by applying theory to contemporary issues. Participation is ultimately the key.

 

How do you see the department under your management?

The department has had great scholars and outstanding people at its helm. Following in their footsteps is quite a responsibility indeed. But we live in a dynamic world and our programmes need to reflect new realities. My aim is to introduce new options to our students such as joint courses with other Departments within the University. We also need to consider partnerships with other Universities to enrich our courses and be able to attract more international students. I believe that the University of Malta has outstanding scholars and with some more synergy we can offer much more than we currently do. My main emphasis up to now has been on the way we communicate as a Department. We need to embrace new tools such as social networking - many people now follow us on Facebook. Much more work is currently in the pipeline and my hope is that it comes to fruition.

 

You were recently reported as being wary of political intrusion. What policies or changes would you introduce to reduce the dependence of authorities on the government?

Politics is meant to set a vision and suggest ways of reaching it. But it needs to stay out of day to day operations. Individual freedom and creativity need to be safeguarded and promoted without fear of retribution. Strong institutions with competent people will ultimately deliver as required.

 

Any comments on the way student politics is being practised at sixth forms and at the University level?

I am not keen on partisan politics practised at sixth form levels. This can stifle a variety of political approaches that youths can be introduced to. At that age, students may still be influenced by the political ideals of their parents.

 

Would you agree on the act of making 16 year olds eligible to vote in local council elections? Yes, I think this gives added responsibility to youths because they'll have a say in choosing the people who can represent them in their locality.

 

What is your view on the professionalism of the parliamentary, judiciary and executive procedures in Malta?

As the proverb goes, 'the clothes don't make the man'. Whatever role people take, at the end of the day, they're still human beings. However, there is always room for improvement and people holding public office need to lead by example. Ethical standards need to be kept and respected otherwise trust in the institutions may suffer. I believe that the Commissioner for Standards of Public Life is a step in the right direction to ensure that standards of conduct are adhered to by members of parliament.

 

What reforms would you propose the Maltese government should take up to improve its policies in parliament?

We need to foster a culture of good governance and respect for the institutions. Decisions taken need to be transparent, sustainable and accountable. Strong institutions remain the pillars of a healthy democracy. They need to address the problems of today with the solutions for tomorrow.

 

Do you think students are well informed about political and parliamentary procedures taking place locally?

Nowadays, through smartphone technology, news is at your fingertips. All you need to do is to 'like' or 'follow' pages and in turn you'll get regular updates. I believe that students who are not informed make a conscious decision not to be.

 

What is an important lesson you have learned throughout your career?

Never give up, no matter how many times you get knocked down. Persistence is rewarding.

 

Any plans for the future?

Finding the right balance between family and work.