"Alternattiva Demokratika has offered to cooperate with the government on identifying a suitable site for a university in the south of Malta," chairman Arnold Cassola said.

Unfortunately, the Prime Minister has not yet taken up this offer. The American University idea is a good one.  Having it sited on virgin land is instead an extremely bad idea and will continue to contribute to the destruction of public natural open spaces. So called "abandoned land", is just an excuse, this open land can be taken care of and restored to its natural beauty.

In addition the site proposed by Government will create serious traffic problems for both Zabbar and Marsaskala. Fort Ricasoli in Kalkara covers 70,000 square metres. It is crying out to be restored and put to a good use.  Siting the American University at Fort Ricasoli with create synergy with Smart city just a stone’s throw away. The Smart City project would undoubtedly be in a position to cater for any shortfall in area for the future expansion of the American University."

Alternattiva Demoratika's proposal  is a "win-win" situation for the whole country".

Prof. Cassola's suggestion comes after an article written by Labour MP Marlene Farrugia in which she suggested carious places that could be integrated into the new uniiversity.

The article was published in The Malta Independent.