The University of Malta’s Department of Translation, Terminology and Interpreting Studies published the Literature in Translation/Il-Letteratura fit-Traduzzjoni written by the academic members of the Department and published by Faraxa.
The book is a journey through the literary world of Camus, Moravia, Lawrence, Fussenegger, Borges, Unamuno, Friggieri, Mejlak, Hardy and Somerset Maughan made possible through translations by A. Aquilina, C. Briffa, J. Eynaud, S. Portelli and C. Vassallo. Prof C. Schaffner of Aston University presented the book to the audience present for the occasion. ‘Literature in Translation’ marks the first ten years of the Department of Translation, Terminology, and Interpreting Studies at the University of Malta.
The Department of Translation, Terminology and Interpreting Studies as it is known today was founded ten years ago in October 2003 and was designed to open new avenues of thought while providing a firm foundation in the discipline of Translation, Terminology and Interpreting studies. As the area of study it combines the underlying theoretical issues involved in literary, technical, screen, legal, scientific and commercial translation, publishing, localisation and management with the practical aspects of the translation process. The programme is of interest to all graduates whatever their future career route: commercial, legal, scientific or technical translation; literary or screen translation; localisation, research, teaching or management. The programme caters for a wide range of students who wish to acquire a critical understanding of contemporary issues in translation alongside the practical skills required in today’s fast evolving translation industry. Versatility and employability are thus enhanced. Graduates of the Department have found work as freelance/permanent translators and interpreters for EU Institutions.
Research is an essential component of the Department as can be witnessed by the many publications of the staff members. The Department has as well accumulated over these years a rich database of Terminologies related to different sectors which will be soon be transferred to a Digitization of Maltese Terminological Collections for Special Purposes and the Creation of Term bases Project. The Department has established links with several foreign Universities and European programmes such as the European Masters in Translation, Optimale, Eulita, EMCI. It also receives funds from the European Commission and the European Parliament.
The Rector of the University of Malta, Prof. J. Camilleri, in his preface to the book comments: “I believe that this anthology is a splendid way to celebrate the achievements of the Department. On this tenth anniversary, the University is proud that the Department of Translation, Terminology and Interpreting Studies has mentored hundreds of students who have now graduated and have pursued rewarding careers as professional translators or interpreters. Indeed, the majority of Maltese translators and interpreters now working in EU institutions have been groomed in these stables.”