Malta's rate of early leaving from education and training (ELET) has fallen to 8.6% in 2026, according to new data published by Eurostat. The figure is below both the EU average of 9.1% and the bloc's 2030 target of 9%, marking the first time Malta has gone under the European average, the government said Wednesday.

Education Minister Clifton Grima said the result reflects a combination of policy measures and sustained investment in the sector, pointing to the National Education Strategy 2024-2030 as a key framework.

He attributed part of the improvement to changes in school-based assessments, which are intended to help educators identify and support students who may be struggling. According to the minister, this has contributed to better outcomes and encouraged more students to continue their studies beyond compulsory education.

Reforms to vocational pathways, particularly the Applied Vocational Certificate (AVC), were also cited as a factor in keeping students engaged in education.

The ministry said the result reflects the combined efforts of schools, educators, families, and students, and noted that further improvements remain a priority.

Malta's latest figure places it ahead of several EU countries, including Germany, Spain, Denmark, Estonia, Austria, and Finland, in terms of early school leaving rates.

Programmes such as the Family Community School Link (FCSL) have also been highlighted as part of the broader approach, focusing on strengthening support systems around students and increasing engagement between schools, families, and communities.

A lower early leaving rate is generally associated with better employment prospects and higher levels of social participation among young people.

The government's ELET strategy, launched in 2024 as part of the wider National Education Strategy, is intended to continue addressing the issue through prevention and targeted support.

Malta has recorded a steady decline in early school leaving over the past two decades. The rate stood at 33% in 2005, dropping to 18.1% in 2012, and has now reached 8.6% in 2026.