University Students Call For Higher Wages

Mar 28 2024

The KSU Education and Social Policy Commission is deeply concerned about the escalating cost of living in Malta and its detrimental impact on students.

A recent KPMG survey revealed that wages in Malta failed to keep up with the 5.7% inflation rate in 2023, increasing only by 1.5%. This disparity poses significant challenges for students, hindering their access to education and extracurricular opportunities.

High living expenses, particularly in housing and food, limit students’ participation in programs like Erasmus+ and engagement in student organizations and university events. Financial support for such programs falls short, leaving many unable to afford rent abroad.

Consequently, students miss out on holistic education and cultural experiences vital for personal growth.

The Commission proposes several policy changes to alleviate financial pressures on students.

Firstly, advocating for a liveable minimum wage pegged at 60% of the median wage, aligning with EU standards. Secondly, promoting financial literacy within the school curriculum to equip students with budgeting and financial decision-making skills.

Thirdly, urging institutions to provide institutional licenses and financial grants for necessary software and equipment. Fourthly, advocating for adequate remuneration for all students undertaking placements.

Finally, seeking improvements in non-commercialized recreational spaces to enhance students’ quality of life. These interventions aim to address the pressing financial challenges faced by students, fostering a supportive environment conducive to their academic and personal development.

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Man Filmed Fishing Off Gozo Ferry

Mar 28 2024

A video sent to this newsroom shows a man fishing off the Gozo ferry, using a fishing line to pull up a fish as he traverses the Malta-Gozo channel.

The man can be seen dragging up a fish whilst on the ferry with relative ease before moving into the vessel.

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Prime Minister Visits Forn Tal-Ħabs

Mar 28 2024

On Thursday morning, Prime Minister Robert Abela visited the Prison Bakery (Forn Tal-Ħabs) to observe the work being carried out by officials of the Correctional Services Agency and prisoners preparing products, such as pastries, to be sold in front of the Kordin Correctional Facility.

The Prison Bakery is an initiative that assists in the rehabilitation process of individuals serving sentences, allowing them to acquire new skills that they can also use upon reintegrating into society.

Prime Minister Abela was accompanied by the Chief Executive Officer of the Correctional Services Agency, Christopher Siegersma, where he also visited the place where the products were being sold.

He spoke with the officials and present prisoners, praising the work being done for this initiative.

During the visit, Prime Minister Robert Abela was also accompanied by the Minister for Home Affairs, National Security, and Jobs, Byron Camilleri.

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Mosta Tree Saga Continues As Vandalism Suspected

Mar 28 2024

The Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) and the Mosta Local Council have taken action following concerns raised by Moviment Graffitti about potential poisoning of trees in Mosta that had been saved from uprooting last November.

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ERA condemned the act of vandalism, stating that holes had been drilled into the trees and an unidentified liquid poured into them.

They filed a police report and initiated sampling and laboratory analysis of the substance.

Moviment Graffitti expressed alarm over the situation, with Andre Callus highlighting signs of poisoning and indicating that the trees were not growing properly.

He criticized the environment ministry and Mosta council for their responsibility in caring for the trees. The Mosta Local Council condemned the attack on the trees, calling it unnecessary and emphasizing the importance of community collaboration to protect natural resources.

They acknowledged past mistakes and expressed commitment to working with residents and NGOs for environmental preservation. Both ERA and the Mosta council stressed the need for collective vigilance to safeguard the environment and uphold community values.

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