A national conference hosted by the Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST) this week signalled a renewed commitment to strengthening Malta's trades sector, with new training programmes aimed at modernising vocational education while preserving traditional craftsmanship.

Held at MCAST's main campus in Paola, the conference - Revitalising Trades through Innovation and Skills - brought together government officials, educators, industry experts and union representatives to discuss the evolving role of trades in a rapidly changing economy.

Opening the event, Education Minister Clifton Grima described the revitalisation of the trades sector as a national priority. "We must change the narrative," he said. "Trades should be seen as a key career path, not a secondary option. This sector built the infrastructure we rely on today, and it will be central to the infrastructure we need to maintain and improve in the future."

MCAST Principal and CEO Stephen Vella emphasised the importance of continued investment in vocational pathways. "We must support both the preservation of traditional skills and the adoption of modern methods," he said, noting that MCAST's vision is to offer future-oriented programmes that create real opportunities for learners.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of the first training programmes from the newly established Institute of Trades, introduced by director Amanda Cassar. These practical courses, certified at MQF Level 1 and Level 2, cover a range of areas such as metalwork, textile techniques, tiling, stonework, and trowel trades relevant to the construction industry. Specific certificates include Metal Work, Precious Metal Work, Textile Techniques, Tile and Stone Work, and Construction Trades.

Each course is designed to bridge theory with hands-on experience through workshops, on-site training, and real-world industry practice. A key feature of these courses is the integration of micro-credentials - short, focused learning units that allow students to build recognised skills in a modular format. This flexible, step-by-step approach is seen as the future of vocational education and lifelong learning, enabling students to enter the workforce more quickly and upskill as needed.

Discussions throughout the day addressed key themes such as sustainability in the trades sector, the role of micro-credentials in education, and the importance of preparing a workforce with specialised skills for the future. Participants included representatives from the National Skills Council, the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Jobsplus, and several unions, including the MUT, UHM, GWU and UPE.

In his closing remarks, Deputy Principal Mario Cardona underlined the need to shift social perceptions around vocational careers. "We are not simply filling gaps in the workforce," he said. "We are preparing people with purpose, with skill, and with dignity."

The conference formed part of the ongoing Encounter: MCAST meets Industry series, supported by the Ministry for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation, aimed at ensuring MCAST's course offerings align with industry needs.

Applications for MCAST courses, including those from the new Institute of Trades, open on 14 July 2025.