The Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) announces the graduation of the third and final group consisting of three hundred and eighty five (385) persons who participated in the ADVANCE management training Programme, which is co-financed through the European Social Fund. The main aim of this programme was to train and assess persons in managerial and supervisory grades that currently work in the tourism industry and those who are interested to pursue a career in tourism. Upon successful completion of the programme, participants are awarded a Diploma in Management at level five (5) of the Malta and European Qualifications Framework for Lifelong Learning.

The Minister for Tourism, Culture and the Environment, Dr. Mario de Marco congratulated all graduates that concluded the ADVANCE programme successfully and stated that Government is committed in further strengthening education and training as well as the tourism product and services. Dr. de Marco stated that employees in the tourism industry have a vital role in strengthening the sector and thanked them for their professional service and dedication towards the industry. Minister de Marco said that Government is investing in an effective tourism strategy that has led to four record years in the past five years.

During the three-year period of the ADVANCE Programme over one thousand (1000) persons successfully graduated from the three intakes.  The programme consisted of various lectures led by both local and international speakers as well as mentoring sessions.

The Chief Executive Officer of the MTA Mr. Josef Formosa Gauci stated that he is confident that the Authority will in the future continue to explore possibilities to develop further programmes similar to ADVANCE, with the ultimate aim being that of achieving excellence in our tourism industry.