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Over 300 Students To Benefit From New Supplementary Stipend

Over 300 Students To Benefit From New Supplementary Stipend
Feb 28 2024 Share

During his visit to the Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST), Education & Sports Minister Clifton Grima met with students and announced the implementation of means testing bands to increase eligibility for additional stipends.

Through this new measure, eligibility for this additional allowance will be extended to more students coming from low-income families. 

Consideration will be given to the number of students in the family who are pursuing their studies.

This measure, applicable from the current academic year, will benefit over 300 students for the first time. Significant adjustments include increases in the stipends ranging from €2,550 to €3,200.

Minister Grima concluded by reaffirming the Government’s commitment to fulfilling its promises and maintaining its strong social ethos. He emphasised the ongoing efforts to develop a more inclusive system that provides adequate support to students from all backgrounds, especially in terms of financial assistance, as fairness remains a core principle. 

During the visit, Minister Grima was accompanied by the Principal and CEO of MCAST, Professor James Joachim Calleja.

#MaltaDaily 

Messi 2nd Person To Reach 500 Million Instagram Followers

Messi 2nd Person To Reach 500 Million Instagram Followers
Feb 28 2024 Share

Lionel Messi achieved a significant milestone on Instagram, amassing 500 million followers, making him the second person globally to achieve such a feat. 

Despite this achievement, he still trails the top spot by 122 million followers. Messi inaugurated his account in June 2013, chronicling his footballing journey, from his successes at Barcelona to winning the 2022 World Cup with Argentina and his subsequent move to Inter Miami. 

Alongside documenting his career, Messi shares glimpses of his family life and engages in brand endorsements. However, he remains distant from surpassing his longtime rival Cristiano Ronaldo, who boasts 622 million followers, having established his account over a year before Messi. 

Notably, the most followed account on the platform is Instagram itself, with 669 million followers. Following Ronaldo and Messi, singer and actress Selena Gomez occupies fourth place with 429 million followers, followed by Kylie Jenner with 400 million. 

Dwayne Johnson, widely known as The Rock, ranks sixth with 396 million followers. Cricket icon Virat Kohli holds the 16th position with 266 million followers, while football sensation Neymar claims the third spot among footballers, securing 219 million followers and the 20th position overall.

#MaltaDaily 

Gridlock Traffic Expected Tomorrow Due To Y Plate Protest

Gridlock Traffic Expected Tomorrow Due To Y Plate Protest
Feb 27 2024 Share

A gridlock traffic jam is being expected for tomorrow as Y Plate Operators are set to protest. 

The Light Passenger Operators Association announced a peaceful car-cade demonstration tomorrow at 8 am, starting from the Farmers parking in Ta’ Qali. 

‘The gathering will take the form of a slow moving car cade , in protest of the current impositions of the Y-plate operators in the industry sector , specifically the current pricing

strategies being adopted by partner platforms impacting the sustainability of the small operator, and thus effecting the operator’s earnings.’ 

Y-Plate operators operate on commission with platforms. The protest calls for a review of current pricing strategies due to economic constraints. 

Operators invest time, energy, and finances, facing predatory pricing and threatening their livelihoods. An exodus of operators is ongoing, prompting a plea for assistance through peaceful assembly.

SO PLAN AHEAD! 

#MaltaDaily 

Malta’s Youngest Ever Local Council Candidate At 15 Years Old

Malta's Youngest Ever Local Council Candidate At 15 Years Old
Feb 27 2024 Share

At just the age of 15, Izak Catania De Giovanni has announced his candidature for the Fgura local council election. 

He took to social media to announce that, ahead of turning 16 this weekend, he will be contesting the elections along with the Labour Party and Labour Youths.

‘I was raised in Ħal Tarxien and I really love the locality of Fgura’, explained Catania De Giovanni, before outlining how he has represented his De La Salle college due to his role of prefect. 

‘It’s with great excitement and dedication that I step forward to serve our community. Together, let’s work towards building a brighter future for Fgura, fostering collaboration, and addressing the needs of all residents.’

‘Your support and participation are invaluable as we embark on this journey together. Together, let’s make a difference and shape the future of our beloved Fgura! Izak, Il-Vot Tal-Futur.’

#MaltaDaily