Plans Announced To Install Air Conditioning In Schools Across Malta

The first 10 schools have been identified for a planned air conditioning rollout, as Education Minister Byron Camilleri acknowledges that ACs are an essential need in Malta's hot climate.

The announcement follows growing concerns that older schools across Malta have been left without air conditioning, leaving students and educators dealing with uncomfortable classroom temperatures, particularly during the warmer months.

Minister Camilleri acknowledged that Malta experiences high temperatures for much of the year, stressing that air conditioning should be considered a necessity rather than a luxury in schools.

However, the minister explained that installing AC units in older school buildings is not always as straightforward as simply fitting the equipment.

In some cases, ageing electrical systems and infrastructure must first be upgraded to accommodate the additional electricity demand, meaning more extensive works are required.

The first phase of the initiative will therefore focus on installing solar panels on school rooftops, helping generate electricity to support the future operation of air conditioning systems.

An expression of interest involving the private sector is expected to be announced shortly as part of this initiative.

The identification of the first 10 schools marks an initial step towards addressing the differences between newer educational facilities, which are generally equipped with modern cooling systems, and older schools requiring further investment.

Camilleri also highlighted the government's ongoing investment in school infrastructure, referring to new schools being inaugurated in Naxxar, Qormi and Żebbuġ in Gozo, alongside improvements to sports facilities in other localities.

The initiative is intended to gradually improve conditions for both students and educators, although a timeline for the installation of air conditioning in the first 10 schools has not yet been confirmed.

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