Students are accepted at University based on their advanced level results but it is clear that their interest in current affairs – except for gossip – is very low.

An exercise carried out by The Malta Independent this week shows that while all the students picked at random at the University quadrangle know about the latest Brangelina divorce, many of them cannot name the President and have no idea what the Panama Papers are.

The name of the Bishop of Gozo was alien to the majority of the students with some saying he is ‘Mercieca’ or ‘Gonzi’, who passed away more than 30 years ago. And despite all the media coverage, two national protests and a bombardment of political propaganda, some could not properly explain what the Panama Papers are.

Many also failed to give the exact date Malta obtained Independence.

The Malta Independent asked the following questions:

-          What is the name of the President?

-          In what year did Malta become Independent?

-          What are the Panama Papers?

-          What year will Malta lead the EU Presidency?

-          What is the name of the Bishop of Gozo?

-          Which Hollywood couple recently filed for divorce?

Video: Jonathan Borg