€1 Million Investment In Free Internet For Post-Secondary Students For 5th Year

Jun 19 2025

With an investment of €1,031,400, students who are eligible for a stipend and who continued their studies immediately after Year 11 (Form 5) will benefit from one year of free internet access. This applies to students attending post-secondary education at state, independent, and church schools, as well as those enrolled in vocational courses at MCAST and ITS.

Eligible students are those who completed compulsory education in 2024 and pursued further studies during the 2024–2025 academic year.

The announcement was made by Minister for Education, Sport, Youth, Research, and Innovation, Clifton Grima, during a press conference.

The support will come in the form of €300 vouchers, which will begin to be distributed in mid-July. These can be redeemed up to Tuesday, 30th September 2025. After this date, unused vouchers will no longer be valid.

Minister Grima explained that this is the fifth consecutive year the scheme is being implemented, bringing the total investment to over €5 million and benefiting more than 7,500 students to date. “This initiative is yet another confirmation of the Government’s commitment to encouraging students to continue their education beyond compulsory schooling,” he said.

The Ministry will renew its agreement with three internet service providers who will take part in the scheme and offer the best on-the-go internet packages to students. However, students may also choose any other internet package offered by their selected provider.

Minister Grima emphasised that this initiative, along with others, is designed to support and encourage young people to continue their studies after completing compulsory education.

Permanent Secretary Matthew Vella added, “This scheme is about more than just free internet. It ensures every student has an equal opportunity to succeed. Technology is now a fundamental part of education not a luxury and by providing internet access, we are making sure no one is left behind. It’s a simple but powerful step towards a more inclusive education system that prepares students for the digital world.”

For more information, students can call 153 or email: [email protected].

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Applications Now Open For The Malta Business Awards

Jun 19 2025

The 4th edition of the Malta Business Awards is officially open for applications!

The three main categories featured at the Malta Business awards are; Distinct Initiatives, Innovative & Sustainable Ambassadors and Celebrating Business.

A total of 20 awards will highlight the outstanding achievements of businesses across Malta and Gozo.

If your business excels in innovation, sustainability, customer experience, or growth, now is your chance to be recognised.

Visit www.maltabusinessawards.mt to apply.

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European Parliament Approves A Resolution Signed By Daniel Attard On The Repression In Iran

Jun 19 2025

European Parliament has approved a powerful resolution condemning the systematic repression carried out by the Iranian regime and calling for the immediate and unconditional release of Professor Ahmadreza Jalali. The resolution, signed by Maltese Labour MEP Daniel Attard, who serves as Vice-President of the European Parliament’s Delegation for Iran, sends a clear message: Europe cannot turn a blind eye to blatant human rights abuses.

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Ahmadreza Jalali, a Swedish-Iranian academic, has been imprisoned since 2016 following a sham trial and a confession extracted under torture. He currently faces a serious risk of execution.

The resolution calls for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of Iran to be designated as a terrorist organisation, an expansion of sanctions against officials responsible for acts of torture and killing, and increased diplomatic pressure to end Iran’s hostage-taking policies.

In his speech to the plenary, Attard warned that the European Union’s position must be based on solid principles, not political calculations, “We cannot allow some countries to act one way and others differently. That is not foreign policy; it is a moral failure. Human rights are universal, and Europe must not only speak out but act.”

The Labour MEP added that for Malta and Europe, credibility depends on consistency, “We must be clear and unwavering with Iran. But also with Israel’s brutality in Gaza, Russia’s barbarism in Ukraine, and anyone who resorts to killing and destroying innocent lives.”

On his social media Attard concluded saying, “Human rights are not negotiable. And the world’s war criminals must know: Europe sees you. Europe will call you out. And Europe will act.”

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6th Edition Of The Malta Architecture And Spatial Planning Awards

Jun 19 2025

The 6th edition of the Malta Architecture and Spatial Planning (MASP) Awards was held at the historic Verdala Palace, under the patronage of the President of Malta, Myriam Spiteri Debono. Organised by the Planning Authority, the prestigious ceremony honoured excellence in the fields of architecture and spatial planning, recognising the outstanding contributions of architects, interior designers, university students, and others involved in architectural research, education, theory, and practice.

Addressing the event, Minister for Gozo and Planning, Clint Camilleri emphasised the government’s commitment to initiatives that promote creativity and sustainable, high-quality development aligned with the Malta 2050 Vision. He stressed that good design is not merely a choice but a cornerstone of national planning strategy and a foundation for sustainable growth.

Highlighting recent efforts to preserve Malta’s architectural heritage, Minister Camilleri referred to a newly announced €5 million restoration scheme targeting historic buildings in Rabat, Gozo. “This initiative demonstrates our dedication to safeguarding our architectural legacy and ensuring that these historic structures continue to breathe life into our urban environments,” he stated. The scheme is expected to expand to other localities in Gozo, with similar restoration and rehabilitation initiatives planned across Malta.

In her remarks, President Spiteri Debono described the evening as a celebration of professionals who express their creativity while respecting and preserving Malta’s architectural and natural heritage. She stressed the importance of fostering sustainable development and embracing a holistic, ethical approach that considers physical, mental, and psychological well-being.

While presenting the President’s Award to architect Joanna Spiteri Staines, the President also encouraged young professionals to actively engage in the sector, fostering a sense of passion and responsibility to protect the unique character of the Maltese Islands.

Planning Authority Executive Chairperson Johann Buttigieg highlighted that the MASP Awards are not just a recognition of past achievements, but also a platform for guiding the future of planning and architecture in Malta. He noted the Authority’s commitment to promoting high standards in design and planning, while encouraging innovation and respect for the cultural and natural context, ultimately contributing to a better built environment for future generations.

A key announcement during the event was the future amalgamation of the MASP Awards with the Galizia Awards, organised by the Chamber of Architects. From 2025, this unified national platform will increase visibility, impact, and synergy across the sector, further strengthening public appreciation for good practices, innovation, and professional integrity in planning and architecture.

Chair of the MASP Awards Jury, Helga Ellul, expressed that it was both an honour and a responsibility to serve in her role. This year’s submissions, she remarked, reflected a profession full of creativity and deeply attuned to today’s pressing challenges—from sustainability and heritage preservation to urban density and public spaces, with a strong focus on quality of life.