Students are set to be requested to study a third language other than Maltese and English in their sixth form syllabus, the Matriculation and Secondary Education Certificate (Matsec) office is proposing.

In a statement, Matsec said the idea behind the introduction of a compulsory foreign language for sixth form students is to enrich students’ European identity and intercultural skills.

Discussions to restructure the Matriculation Certificate Examination have taken place over the past years.

The restructuring, to be officially announced on Monday, aims to “to reflect and serve the changing socio-economic needs of Maltese society within a European and global context,” Matsec added.

The proposed reform also seeks to “give merit” to students’ voluntary involvement in activities of a non-academic nature, including social engagement and enterprise. The activities can take place during or after school hours, Matsec said.

The reform aims to attribute greater importance and value to school assessment and offer “unprecedented support and recognition” of talented athletes, it said.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the original publication of the Matriculation Certificate examination regulations, it said.

“By way of concluding these discussions, an improved and more student-centred Matriculation programme is being proposed to meet the needs of 21st century learners, for whom the future holds major transformations,” the statement read.

The office will be presenting their proposals next Monday for a public consultation.

Reforms to Matsec exams had been suggested in 2018, when the Education ministry suggested creating three exams for Maltese.