The Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST) and the Armed Forces of Malta (AFM) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to continue up-skilling the AFM workforce. 

After the success of a previous agreement signed years ago, both the AFM and MCAST have expressed a desire to benefit from this new agreement signed on Tuesday. 

AFM Brigadier Jeffrey Curmi during the signing ceremony said that “the best strategy for the future is to improve on the workforce. The standards that MCAST upholds are important to give them the qualifications recruits need to enter the AFM.” 

Curmi also said that since the courses provided at MCAST for the workforce of the AFM are internationally recognised, once they retire after 25 years of service, they have an educational certificate to fall back on and find another job. 

“Up-skilling the workforce is beneficial to both the individual and the army. Soldiers are able to give better service to their country and after they retire they would still be able to contribute to the economy positively.” 

This agreement does not only benefit the AFM as Curmi explained that thanks to the MoU, apprenticeship programmes offered by MCAST could now also include apprenticeships at the AFM. “The army is making use of the latest equipment and technology which would be beneficial for students to study on.” 

An MCAST spokesperson said that “our relationship with the AFM is developing on multiple fronts and we have the advantage of being an accredited educational institution.” 

Education Minister Justyne Caruana reiterated the point of importance when it comes to investing in the workforce and up-skilling. “Mcast has the role of addressing the shortcomings in advanced learning and supporting the industry. This is one of the ways.” 

Caruana reminded everyone about the €3 million investment the government made in apprenticeship programmes at MCAST. “This provides a holistic approach to students and the AFM is one of those entities providing more professional programmes.” 

Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri said that the personal experiences of officers in the army show how many people are benefitting from this agreement. 

“The uniform does not make you the perfect soldier but constant education is key in keeping up to date."

Photo: Miguela Xuereb - Newsbook