The 15% increase in student stipends represents an additional €6 million in the hands of young people, aims to encourage further participation in higher education while alleviating financial pressures on students and their families.
The Minister for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation, Clifton Grima, on Tuesday said that the government views education as the foundation of a fairer society and a more competitive economy.
Speaking during an informal meeting at the Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST), Minister Grima highlighted that the Budget continues to build on reforms introduced in recent years to ensure that students and their families benefit directly from sustained investment in education.
"We firmly believe that students and their families should receive every possible form of support, including financial assistance, during one of the most delicate stages of their lives, when they are pursuing their education - a period that lays the foundation for their future," Minister Grima said.
Also present at the meeting was the Minister for Gozo and Planning, Clint Camilleri, who discussed the Budget's impact on Gozitan students. He announced a new monthly allowance of €280 for over 800 Gozitan students who pursue post-secondary or tertiary studies in Malta. This represents an increase of approximately 70% compared to current assistance levels. "This measure will both simplify the application process and strengthen financial support for students from Gozo," Minister Camilleri stated.
Minister Camilleri also referred to the Ministry for Gozo's extensive programme of educational infrastructure projects. These include major refurbishments at the Nadur Primary School and the Middle School in Rabat, the complete reconstruction of the Rabat Primary School, and ongoing modernization works at the Ta' Kerċem Primary School. Further upgrades are planned for the Żebbuġ Primary School next year, with both projects together amounting to €7 million.
Additional Budget measures include continued financial assistance for parents of students pursuing education beyond the compulsory level. Parents will continue to receive €500 annually for three years, up to a maximum of €1,500, the government said.
The government also announced the reintroduction of the popular free gym scheme for young people aged 16 to 21, covering those born between 2004 and 2009. This initiative aims to promote a healthier lifestyle and strengthen the connection between physical well-being, education, and youth engagement.