A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Ministry for Education and Employment through San Gorg Preca College, Msida Educational Hub (MEH), and the University of Malta (UM) through its Faculty for Social Wellbeing (FSWB), highlighting the mutual benefit that structured communication and cooperation would bring.

The Faculty for Social Wellbeing (FSWB) and the MEH intend to undertake collaborative initiatives that include the provision of supervision services to the staff of the MEH by FSWB (through the Department of Counselling) and the recruitment by FSWB of a group of University students who will develop a befriending programme involving the students at MEH. Funds will be provided by MEH for action and emancipatory-based research, undertaken by FSWB,  that will contribute to a better understanding and improved strategies on how to deal with young people in challenging circumstances.

Alfred J. Vella, University of Malta Rector said that this collaboration was another step in the list of initiatives that the Faculty for Social Wellbeing, supported by the university, was working on to bring the Alma Mater close to the social sector. "The relevance of academia lies in its ability to respond to what is happening on the ground. This collaboration brings out what academics are skilful at (teaching, research, mentoring) and makes good use of it.  The Hub will provide us with a project that we can leave an immediate impact upon", he said. 

Minister Evarist Bartolo said that through this MoU the University's work becomes even more relevant, as its students can face real life situations. He added that the road will not be easy but it is the only way forward for schools to offer everyone an education, and to provide opportunities to those who would otherwise not have them. The Minister said he looked forward to futher such initiatives between Uiversity and schools.