Prime Minister, Robert Abela, together with Ministers Clifton Grima and Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, on Wednesday formally inaugurated the new Information and Communication Technology Institute at the main MCAST campus in Kordin.
The facility, which forms part of the institution's "Masterplan 2", has been operational for students since 2024 and represents a €14.5 million investment co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund, a government statement said.
The institute covers 11,900 square metres and contains 58 new learning spaces. These include 30 computer laboratories, 16 classrooms, five hardware laboratories, two networking laboratories, facilities dedicated to game development, and research areas including those focused on artificial intelligence. Students have access to a green-screen room, a robotics laboratory and other specialised spaces designed to reflect the broad scope of ICT subjects offered by MCAST.
During the visit, the Prime Minister observed lessons in various laboratories, including those dedicated to gaming, networking, robotics and Raspberry Pi development. He noted that the upgraded infrastructure is designed to provide practical learning experiences and improved access to modern equipment, strengthening training in a sector that continues to expand rapidly.
Each year, more than one thousand students pursue courses in ICT-related fields at MCAST, ranging from software development and iGaming to cyber security and computer networking. The institution offers a complete educational pathway from entry-level studies up to Master's degrees, with the stated aim of preparing students for high-quality careers.
The Prime Minister remarked that investment in education extends beyond buildings and contributes directly to the ambitions and futures of young people. He described the institute as part of a broader strategy connected to Malta's 2050 vision, which emphasises opportunities in the digital economy for Maltese and Gozitan youth. He also referred to recent government measures such as a 15 per cent increase in stipends and grants of up to €1,500 for parents whose children continue studying beyond compulsory education.
This project forms part of a wider €32.9 million investment in three new buildings on the Kordin campus, all intended to strengthen education, innovation and opportunities for students.
Minister Clifton Grima highlighted that the facility enhances both the learning experience and the Government's long-term objective of maintaining a modern education system aligned with the needs of a digital economy. He stated that environments of this kind offer students the best conditions in which to develop their skills and prepare for careers in a continually evolving sector.
Minister Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi underlined the importance of sustained investment in skills and education, particularly in technology and ICT. He described the new building as another step toward creating a "skills-driven Malta", capable of equipping students and workers for a rapidly changing digital world. He added that the structure reflects a commitment to continue building on the potential of the country's citizens.