INTERVIEW WITH DR SILVIO DE BONO PRESIDENT OF

Transcription

MCAST
LINK
SUMMER ISSUE 44
INTERVIEW WITH
DR SILVIO DE BONO
PRESIDENT OF THE
BOARD OF GOVERNORS
MCAST’S COLLABORATION
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EDITOR’S MESSAGE
We end this term with a showcase of the College at the MCAST
EXPO which will be held between the 25 and 28 June at MCAST
Main Campus, Paola. Visitors will have the opportunity to
discover more about MCAST’s ten Institutes and the Gozo
Centre. We look forward to meeting you there!
This edition includes the first interview with Dr Silvio De Bono,
President of the Board of Governors. Learn more about our new
President, how his career developed, what his vision and aims
for MCAST are.
MCAST is collaborating with industry and other third parties
to provide its students with more opportunities. The Partners’
Conference, held for the first time at MCAST, is featured
together with the signing of agreements of collaboration that
MCAST has undertaken during the past months.
Discover MCAST’s Pathway to Independent Living Programme
through an interesting article that depicts how students with
disabilities now have the opportunity to learn basic life skills
that will enable them to live an independent life. Lecturers
within this unit delve into their areas of teaching to uncover
what this course is all about.
MCAST’s first day against Homophobia, the Charity Marathon,
the NSTF Science EXPO, Spring Days and the College’s new
Entrepreneurship Centre all feature within the magazine.
Summer is finally with us. I wish you all relaxing holidays, after
a busy, challenging academic year!
Find us on Facebook
MCASTlink is produced by the Communications and PR Office
Produced & Edited:
Caroline Balzan, Communications & PR Manager
Design: Roderick Peresso
Printing: Colour Image
Proofreading: Joyce Hili
Advertising enquiries: caroline.balzan@mcast.edu.mt
All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without written
permission. All reasonable care is taken to ensure truth and accurancy, but the editor cannot
be held responsible for errors or omissions in articles, advertising, photographs or illustrations.
EDITOR’S MESSAGE
3
EDITOR’S MESSAGE
pg3
INSTITUTE OF
COMMUNITY SERVICES
pg44
INTERVIEW
pg5
SUPPORT SERVICES
pg47
INFORMATION
pg8
INSTITUTE OF BUILDING AND
CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING
ENTREPRENEURSHIP CENTRE
pg48
pg22
SPORTS DEPARTMENT
MARITIME INSTITUTE
pg51
pg24
GRADUATION
INSTITUTE OF APPLIED SCIENCE
pg55
pg26
LEARNING AND SUPPORT UNIT
INSTITUTE OF
BUSINESS AND COMMERCE
pg58
pg27
ACHIEVE A LEVEL 3
VOCATIONAL QUALIFICATION
INSTITUTE OF ART AND DESIGN
pg62
pg30
FASION IS NOT A GARMENT
INSTITUTE OF AGRIBUSINESS
pg64
pg39
GOZO CENTRE
INSTITUTE OF INFORMATION AND
COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY
pg66
pg40
INSTITUTE OF ELECTRICAL AND
ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING
pg43
MCAST EXPO 2014
4
INTERVIEW WITH
DR SILVIO DE BONO
How did your career develop?
I come from a very humble background. While still at school there were teachers that discouraged
me yet I was adamant that I wanted to learn, that I wanted to improve myself and move on.
I started my career carrying out a work placement at Xandir Malta (now PBS) as a producer
journalist in the newsroom. I loved this and spent nine and a half years working there and have
INTERVIEW
5
to admit that my first love was journalism. After nine years working there
I felt I had to move on. I was looking for something I enjoy doing and that
is working with people. Back then HR was still in its infancy. My job was
then at the Foundation for Human Resources... I was one of the very
first employees as a FHRD Field Executive. My role was to promote HR
doctrine among members. After a short spell there I then ventured out
with other partners in setting up different businesses and, around ten
years ago, I branched out completely on my own. I knew I wanted to work
with people and in management and felt that I really found my place.
I wear two hats. I am a Management Consultant by profession dealing
with organisational behaviour. I also lecture at the University of Malta and
Maastricht School of Management. My post at MCAST bridges these two
areas as I deal with industry and the vocational aspect of education. It’s
all about learning and building learning opportunities for our students.
My aim is to improve and build on what others have built before me
throughout the years. I believe it is my duty, together with the Board and
the Principal, to take the College another step forward.
MCAST Strategy is aimed to address Societal
Challenges ...expand on this.
I believe that MCAST is one of those educational pillars which are there
to shape our economy. We should be more proactive in providing job
opportunities not only for current industry needs but opportunities for
industry yet to come. We need to identify potential industry coming to Malta.
Yet we cannot do this alone. In fact what we have been doing over the past
months is building better bridges with industry.
The setting up of a joint committee between MCAST and industry is another
milestone. This is a permanent structure that would enable MCAST to have
regular contact with industry. We involved all the stakeholders including the
trade unions. We firmly believe that in order to move forward we need all the
stakeholders on board.
The Partners’ Conference held in January was another milestone for the
College as it was the first of its kind organised by MCAST and provided
industry with the opportunity to come over and learn more about what we
offer and how we could work closer together.
Our mission is to build MCAST on three pillars. The first pillar is crosscurricular learning. No longer are the days that students should study
within one Institute. It is more enriching for students to diversify and acquire
different skills that would help them in their chosen career. For example a
person within the Agribusiness Institute could carry out modules within the
Business and Commerce and ICT Institutes. The different skills obtained by
the students will increase their competence and employability.
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INTERVIEW
The second pillar is Entrepreneurship. We now have a MCAST
Entrepreneurship Centre (MEC). It is still in its embryonic stage yet it is
developing. In fact we have signed an agreement with the Kordin Business
Incubation Centre (KBIC) whereby they will assign a number of units to
MCAST students who individually or in groups will embark on projects with
potential for commercialization.
The third pillar that the College is focusing on is Apprenticeships.
Apprenticeships should be part and parcel of the learning process. We have
now been entrusted to take over the management of appreticehsip to ensure
better placements in line with the studies as well as be able to actively
monitor the students’ developments. In fact we are currently finalising the
details and working on a transition plan.
You intend to focus on research.
What do you intend to do?
I strongly believe that MCAST, together with other tertiary education
institutions, can carry out research with industry. In fact we have
already made a good number of contacts with different entities that all
ready to carry out research with MCAST. For example we have signed
a Memorandum of Understanding with the Malta Intelligent Energy
Management Agency (MIEMA) that will see both parties collaborate to
set up a joint Renewable Energy Sources Research Centre focusing on
renewable energy sources and issues on environmental sustainability.
We have also just signed an agreement with award-winning Maltese
neuroscience and medical technologies company AAT Research to
develop a joint inter-disciplinary research centre. Research helps us to
innovate and this ties with what I was saying earlier on. If we want to be
proactive and offer programmes for tomorrow’s needs, research should
be an integral part of our institution.
You mention changing the perception of MCAST.
MCAST is now offering degree programmes just like other applied colleges
in Europe. It is no longer a second option but is now equal to any other
education institution offering degree courses. In fact we have students
with the entry requirements to proceed to University but choose MCAST
instead as they specifically want a vocational career that can guarantee
a job at the end of their studies. Our graduates find employment the day
after as there is great demand for MCAST graduates. MCAST doesn’t
just offer degree courses but also offers programmes from Levels 1 to 6
providing opportunities to all. The way forward is to look for opportunities
we have around us, including but not limited to EU funds.
INTERVIEW
7
INFORMATION
From left: Dr Silvio De Bono, Hon Dr Ian Borg, Mr Stephen Cachia, Hon Dr Joseph Muscat and Hon Dr Joe Cassar having a look at the model of the new MCAST Campus.
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INFORMATION
INAUGURATION
OF THE INSTITUTE OF BUSINESS AND
COMMERCE NEW BUILDING
The new Institute of Business and Commerce building, which forms
part of the larger project on the Main Campus, was inaugurated by
Prime Minister Hon Dr Joseph Muscat and Education Minister Hon
Evarist Bartolo on Wednesday 21 May 2014.
Since 2011, €20 million were invested in the Institutes of Business
and Commerce and Applied Science, a car park, sport facilities and a
student house, which will be finished by next year. The next phase of the
development will include the main square, a library and the ICT Institute.
MCAST Principal and CEO, Stephen Cachia said that this
infrastructural development and the review of curricula over the
next two years will keep breathing life in MCAST so that the
College remains relevant to the country’s needs. President of the
Board of Governors, Dr. Silvio Debono said that this is one of a
series of projects currently in progress at this campus; and that
further collaboration with social partners is required. “The student
needs remain at the core of all developments, and curriculum
changes are also underway, to offer a broader choice of studies
for students.”
Hon Evarist Bartolo spoke about the Gozo campus and mentioned that
the government was looking into investing in a campus in Gozo to give
the campus “dignity and visibility”. He urged administrators to maintain
the flexibility they have also shown, especially when there was a vacuum
in the local market and the College had to provide new training. “It is not
acceptable that the MCAST in Gozo gets the leftovers - with a section in
the Xagħra Primary School and another in the Xewkija Primary School.”
MCAST and the University of Malta. “Progress is not measured by
the number of buildings inaugurated, but rather by the amount of high
flyers and qualifiers our country has.”
Prime Minister Hon Dr Joseph Muscat said that courses at MCAST
need to comply with the economic and employment needs of our
country. He also mentioned the need for more synergy between
Parliamentary Secretary Ian Borg commented that European Union
funds allocated for MCAST have been raised up to €9million euro from
the previous legislature, adding to a total of €20million in funds.
Hon Evarist Bartolo addressing the guests at the inauguration ceremony
INFORMATION
9
Dr Silvio De Bono and Dr Mario Vella
MCAST AND MALTA
ENTERPRISE COLLABORATE
TO PROVIDE STUDENTS WITH ACCESS
TO ENTREPRENEURIAL WORLD
MCAST and Malta Enterprise signed an agreement which will see
both sides collaborating to provide MCAST students with easier entry
to the entrepreneurial world and a framework for innovative ideas to
thrive. This framework will help students with original ideas to start
and develop a successful business.
As a result of this agreement, Malta Enterprise will assign a number
of units at the Kordin Business Incubation Centre (KBIC) to MCAST.
These units will be made available for MCAST students who
individually or in groups will embark on projects with potential for
commercialization.
The parties agree to set up a Projects Board that will be formed
primarily to evaluate business proposals put forward by MCAST
students. This board will be composed of MCAST officials and a
Malta Enterprise representative.
This agreement was signed by Dr Mario Vella, Malta Enterprise
Chairman and Dr Silvio De Bono, MCAST President of the Board
of Governors in the presence of Hon Evarist Bartolo, Minister for
Education and Employment, and Hon Chris Cardona, Minister of
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INFORMATION
Economy, Investment and Small Business, as well as Mr Stephen
Cachia, MCAST Principal and CEO.
“We are extremely proud that once again, we are associating ourselves with
Malta Enterprise, this time through close collaboration that will see MCAST
students provided with space within KBIC - an ideal place for our students
to nurture, grow and launch their business ideas,” said Dr Silvio De Bono.
“MCAST has embarked on a process to develop and support
entrepreneurship as a key skill for our students. We are currently
strengthening this area through the introduction of new developments
including the setting up of an Entrepreneurship Committee to manage
these initiatives and identify new ways of encouraging more students to
develop their entrepreneurial potential. The College has also embarked
on a process to develop entrepreneurship as an important curricular
element across all levels. Each MCAST institute has also appointed
one of its staff members to act as an entrepreneurship champion who
will provide students with the necessary guidance about start-ups. The
signing of this agreement takes our collaboration with Malta Enterprise
to a higher level and forms part of MCAST’s strategy to support and
promote entrepreneurship,” added Dr De Bono.
MCAST COLLABORATING
WITH STAKEHOLDERS
TO DEVELOP AND SUPPORT ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Mr Stephen Cachia receiving the donation from Mr Paul Abela
Throughout the last few months MCAST has embarked on a process
to develop and support entrepreneurship and innovation as key skills
for our students. The College is currently strengthening this area
through collaboration with various stakeholders. The College received
a donation from the GRTU to further invest and strengthen initiatives
in entrepreneurship.
Mr Stephen Cachia, MCAST Principal and CEO, spoke about the
various initiatives that the College is currently working on for innovative
ideas to thrive. He mentioned that the response from students
has been excellent and there are around sixty students interested
in developing their business ideas further. The College has also
embarked on a process to develop entrepreneurship as an important
curricular element across all levels. He thanked the GRTU for their
financial assistance and stated the importance of collaboration with
industry in order to continuously update the curriculum and make it
relevant to the needs of industry.
Mr Paul Abela, President of the GRTU, stated that he firmly believed
in the entrepreneurship projects MCAST was working on. “We
represent small and medium-sized enterprises and therefore took
this College project to develop entrepreneurship very seriously”.
Mr Abela praised the College for the initiatives it was taking and
ensured the full support of the GRTU.
MCAST SIGNS COLLABORATIVE
AGREEMENT WITH AAT RESEARCH
Award-winning Maltese neuroscience and medical technologies
company AAT Research today signed a collaborative agreement
with the Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology to develop
a joint inter-disciplinary research centre. The agreement creates
an Institute of Human Physiology and Cognition at MCAST.
AAT Research develops affordable technologies to improve
people’s quality of life. Its first product, the award-winning,
patented Mente™, is a neurofeedback device for home use in
the management of autism in children. Since early 2014, Mente™
is being marketed internationally. AAT Research also conducts
neuroscience research projects for international clients.
The conception of this new Institute will
initiate a new venture, whereas aspiring
students will have the opportunity to enroll
into new courses targeted at training
the attendees in the niche industries
which are going through exponential
growth throughout the global scene.
This will enrich the Maltese Educational
Sector and open new academic and
occupational opportunities, which to this
day were virtually inexistent in Malta.
MCAST President of the Board of
Governors, Dr Silvio De Bono welcomed
the signing of the agreement as an
example of MCAST making research and
education relevant to industries such as
the emerging medical and bio-sciences
sector. Dr Adrian Attard Trevisan, founder
and Managing Director of AAT Research,
said that the agreement crystallised an
existing relationship MCAST: “Some of
our top people are MCAST graduates and
From left: Dr Silvo De Bono and Dr Adrian Attard Trevisan in the presence
of Hon Evarist Bartolo and Mr Stephen Cachia
The collaboration will provide students
we are keen to encourage young people
at MCAST with access to AAT
to enter the exciting neurosciences sector,
Research’s labs and hands-on experience of applied technologies in
which has applications in fields as diverse as medicine and marketing.”
the commercial sector. Under the agreement, AAT Research will also
be offering internships to students following engineering, softwareThe signing of the agreement at the MCAST campus in Paola was
related, business and administration courses.
attended by Hon. Evarist Bartolo, Minister for Education and Employment.
INFORMATION
11
MCAST CONNECTS WITH
INDUSTRY
On 23 April 2014 MCAST organised a business breakfast for
industry entitled ‘On the Job Training’. The business breakfast, part
of a series called ‘Industry Connect’, focussed on the importance
and benefits of on the job training and apprenticeships
MEP CANDIDATES
PARTICIPATE IN DEBATES AT MCAST
MEP candidates from the
three main political parties
took part in several
debates at MCAST Main
Campus. They discussed,
among other things,
the creation of jobs for
MCAST graduates.
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INFORMATION
MCAST AND MIEMA
COLLABORATE TO SET UP
RENEWABLE ENERGY
SOURCES RESEARCH
CENTRE
MCAST and the Malta Intelligent Energy Management Agency (MIEMA) have signed
a Memorandum of Understanding that will see both parties collaborate to set up a joint
Renewable Energy Sources Research Centre focusing on renewable energy sources
and issues on environmental sustainability.
The Research Centre, which will be set up within the Institute of Applied Science, aims
to conduct research activities on energy and environmental issues, carry out studies and
issue publications on related topics, develop and participate in relevant national, EU and
international projects, offer support to policymakers, national and local authorities, offer
internships to students or research mobility programmes, organise thematic discussion
events, educational and training activities, conferences and seminars.
MCAST and MIEMA are also collaborating on an Italia-Malta Regional Development
Fund project, named Crim-Safri, which aims to set up a biomass pilot plant and
a biomass research centre (biomass is biological material derived from living or
recently living organisms). The research project, worth €2,191,647.00, focuses on the
sustainability of small/medium enterprises (SMEs) working predominantly within the
building and construction sector.
The aim of the project is to create a research centre with the aim of supporting local
authorities, clusters of SMEs and SMEs to implement sustainable consumption and
production strategies which include environmental sustainability and renewable energy
exploitation. The biomass pilot plant shall operate within one chosen SME firm, and will
convert construction wood waste into energy. This energy will then be fed directly into
the national energy grid, providing the SME firm with a revenue for the waste that has
been utilized. This will make the firm’s operational activities more sustainable and will
also reduce the need for the firm to dispose of its waste materials. The pilot research on
biomass conversion for small firms is expected to provide new learning into how these
firms can become more sustainable by turning their waste into energy, as opposed to
disposing of it. The project is part-financed by the European Regional Development
Fund (ERDF) under the Italia-Malta Cross-Border Cooperation Programme 2007-2013.
INFORMATION
13
MCAST PARTNERS’
CONFERENCE
FOSTERING COLLABORATION IN
THE KNOWLEDGE ECONOMY
On 31 January 2014, MCAST held its first Partners’ Conference entitled
‘Fostering Collaboration in the Knowledge Economy’. This conference
explored the theme of collaboration between business, academia and
government in supporting innovative projects, reducing risks, creating
partnerships, knowledge exchange and open innovation through
clustering activities thereby promoting economic growth, business
development and employment opportunities for students.
As an important institution for further and higher education and a leader
in vocational training, MCAST feels the need to respond to these
challenges by constantly seeking to explore avenues of collaboration
in order to engage and partner with industry and enterprise - including
public and private sector institutions - in order to ensure that MCAST
responds to the changing needs of our society and our economy.
The conference centred on three themes. The first session entitled
‘Education and Business Collaboration’, focused on ensuring higher levels
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INFORMATION
of convergence between vocational training and industry. The second
theme, ‘Sustaining Business Competitiveness through Research and
Education’, looked into the themes of research and innovation, while the
third theme dealt with preparing for tomorrow’s workforce. Towards the end
of the conference different social partners got together to discuss further.
Hon. Evarist Bartolo spoke about the major challenge that we are
currently facing namely that of making sure that we have right people
with the right skills and the right work ethic. He stated that we need an
ongoing audit of skills to see whether we are preparing our students
with the right skills relevant to the world of work out there. He stressed
that our students need to learn how to solve problems, how to work in
teams and how to communicate effectively.
Dr Silvio De Bono, MCAST President of the Board of Governors, mentioned
the aims of the conference, namely the strengthening of the existing,
excellent relationships with Industry, the fostering of collaboration in various
projects and initiatives and the identification of weaknesses and development
of solutions. He stated that the strategy of the new Board is to be more
proactive to industry’s needs and added that the College is working to make
the vocational programmes more flexible and to ensure cross-curricular
activities. Also the College is in progress of promoting entrepreneurship
and intrapreneurship as an integral part of the curriculum and is looking into
increasing the content of work-based learning activities through different
schemes. He concluded by emphasising the importance of MCAST and
Industry working closely together through a structured relationship.
Mr Stephen Cachia, MCAST Principal and CEO, spoke about the important
challenges that the College is currently working on. These include the
new MCAST Campus building and the important curriculum changes. He
also mentioned the important role of industry in different areas. This is
vital for the College. ‘Our role is to balance the needs of industry with our
educational role in preparing students holistically for employment and for
their role in society’, stated Mr Cachia.
The speakers included Hon. Evarist Bartolo, Minister for Education
and Employment, Prof Godfrey Baldacchino, University of Malta,
Anton Borg, Deputy President Malta Chamber of Commerce,
John Cassar White, Chairman BOV, Stephan Drewes, CEO
Lufthansa Technik Malta, Dollsy Darmanin, HR Manager Playmobil
Malta, Alfred Grixti, Executive Chairman ETC, Jeffrey Pullicino
Orlando, Executive Chairman MCST, Mario Vella, Chairman Malta
Enterprise, Saviour Zammit, Director Centre for Entrepreneurship
and Business Incubation, Dr Silvio De Bono, President MCAST
Board of Governors and Chairman MG2I, Stephen Cachia, Principal
and CEO MCAST, Vince Maione, Deputy Principal MCAST and
Oscar Borg, Partnerships Director MCAST. Members on the panel
included Paul Abela, GRTU, Anton Borg, Chamber of Commerce,
Vince Cassar, MCAST and Josef Vella, UĦM.
The Hon Prime Minister, Joseph Muscat, presented the certificates to
the partnerships companies at the end of the Conference.
INFORMATION
15
AVIATION MAINTENANCE PRESENTATION OF
AWARDS CEREMONY
On Wednesday 26 February
2014 MCAST held the Aviation
Maintenance Presentation of Awards
Ceremony at MCAST Main Campus.
Sixty four students received certificates for successfully completing
the following courses: MCAST Aircraft Maintenance Technician
Course (Leading to EASA Part -66 CAT B 1.1 Examinations),
MCAST Aircraft Maintenance Technician Course (Leading to EASA
Part -66 CAT B2 Avionics Examinations), and EASA Part-66 Aircraft
Maintenance Category 'A' Licence Course.
In 2004 the College took up the challenge to provide highly-trained
workforce for this fast growing industry. To date the College has
already trained over 450 students who are presently working with
airlines and MROs, while another 70 students are currently enrolled
on the College’s full-time and part-time courses.
The College now boasts a state-of-the-art Aviation Maintenance
Training Centre, qualified lecturers and examiners, training, examination
16
INFORMATION
and quality assurance procedures, as well as the approval by the
European Aviation Safety Authority for Category A1 training and
certification. Resources include two dedicated training workshops, one
for Basic Training and one for Sheet Metal Training, three classrooms
for theory lessons and two computer-based training rooms.
During the presentation of awards ceremony Hon. Evarist Bartolo
mentioned the Skills Gap Analysis that will be carried out together
with CEDEFOP, to identify present and future skills gaps in
the economy. Hon. Karmenu Vella mentioned that the aviation
maintenance sector is developing and has potential for further
growth. He said that the foreign companies like Lufthansa Technik
and SR Technics have invested in Malta mainly due to the skilled
human resources available.
Dr Silvio De Bono, President of the MCAST Board of Governors,
mentioned that MCAST has set up a permanent structure whereby
the College and Industry could work together to provide students
with the right skills required by industry. Mr Stephen Cachia,
Principal and CEO, stressed on the importance of the work ethic and
soft skills at the place of work. He also thanked industry for working
closely with MCAST.
MCAST AND AFM
TO COLLABORATE TOGETHER
MCAST and the Armed Forces of Malta have signed a Memorandum of
Understanding that will see both parties collaborate to provide reciprocal
knowledge, skills and competencies-based training and assistance to
both AFM personnel and MCAST students.
This agreement will provide MCAST students with the opportunity to
carry out apprenticeship placements at the AFM’s workshops as well
as offer AFM personnel the chance to enrol on MCAST’s full-time and
part-time courses and receive training in maritime, aviation maintenance,
mechanical and electrical engineering as well as building and construction
engineering areas of study.
The AFM and MCAST will cooperate to review the syllabi of military trades
of a civilian nature for the syllabi to reflect the advancement in technology
and the needs of the industries according to current educational standards.
MCAST will also certify the training related to the military trades of a civilian
nature where training is carried out by the AFM.
Dr Silvio De Bono, President of the MCAST Board of Governors stated that
he is privileged to be signing this agreement of collaboration with the AFM.
“During the past few months MCAST has signed a number of agreements
with private industry and this collaboration with the AFM is another bridge
that will render MCAST more relevant to our students needs”.
Brigadier Jeffrey Curmi stated that both parties will benefit from this
agreement. “The AFM will utilise MCAST’s expertise in education
for the benefit of our personnel through the provision of learning
and training opportunities while MCAST students will benefit
from apprenticeships and will have access to the Army’s new,
technologically-advanced equipment”.
ANDREW
TRIGANZA SCOTT
NEW DIRECTOR FOR
HUMAN RESOURCES
Andrew Triganza Scott is an educator by profession. He is a trained
Personal and Social Development teacher with 13 years teaching
experience. He has been active in the PSD Teachers Association
and has also held the position of President of the PSD Teachers
Association. Andrew Triganza Scott holds a B. Psy (Hons.), a PGCE,
an M.Ed. (Melit.) and an MBA.
Mr Triganza Scott has also carried out various lecturing duties as parttime visiting lecturer on various occasions namely at the University
of Malta within the Department of Education Studies and the
Department of Sport and Leisure Studies in the Faculty of Education.
He has delivered courses within the Department of Public Policy in
the Faculty of Economics, Management and Accountancy and the
Department of Psychology in the Faculty of Education.
He has also delivered graduate and undergraduate courses at the
European Institute of Education (EIE) in the degree of Psychology and
the Master of Business and Administration (MBA). He has previously
worked on consultancy projects with Human Factors International in
particular on Corporate Audits especially with merging organizations.
Mr Triganza Scott is a co-author of ‘Educational Leaders in the
Making’, a book on exploring the developmental and leadership
pathways of educational leaders with Dr Vincent Cassar and Dr
Christopher Bezzina. Mr Triganza Scott carried out consultant projects
and delivered training with the International Training Organization
the International Centre for Training and Development in the United
Arab Emirates (UAE) mainly focusing on Strategic Human Resources
Management and Excellence Models in Business Management.
Mr Triganza Scott has undertaken a national study analyzing the ‘Skills Gap’
between the manufacturing sector and MCAST which he also published.
He has carried out various studies and international research collaborations
in Organizational Psychology, Social Psychology, Educational Psychology
and Economic Psychology, both locally at the University of Malta and with
foreign institutions in Japan, Austria and USA.
Currently Mr Andrew Triganza Scott is the Director for Human
Resources at the MCAST. He is currently engaged on updating
the HR Information System and setting up policy documents in the
management codes pertaining to HR.
INFORMATION
17
DAVID COLEIRO
NEW DIRECTOR FOR
THE INSTITUTE OF
AGRIBUSINESS
Mr. David Coleiro is the newly appointed Director at
the Agribusiness Institute. He has been working at
MCAST for more than eight years having joined in
February 2006. Mr. Coleiro graduated in Pharmacy
from the University of Malta in 1994 and obtained
his Masters Degree in Agricultural and Veterinary
Pharmacy from the University of Malta in 1996. He
started his professional career in Pharmacy as a
medical representative, detailing medical products,
including veterinary products, in Malta and Libya.
Later he managed several local pharmacies within
the private sector. He has also been involved in
various projects related to the agricultural and
veterinary sector including the translation of EU
directives and regulations into Maltese and training
programmes for local farmers.
progressed to Senior Lecturer in 2008. Within the
Agribusiness Institute he has covered most roles
including those of Internal Verifier for BTEC units
(Animal Management and Horticulture), Coordinator
for Level 6 - Bachelor of Science programmes and
Institute Coordinator for the last four years. He
also led the institute as acting director during the
academic year 2012-2013.
Mr. Coleiro has also been directly involved in
several European funded projects such as those
for upgrading of skills within the pharmaceutical
sector, and is still involved with projects related to
upgrading of MCAST courses from level 1 to 6.
Mr. Coleiro is married to Nadya and they have
two children.
Mr. Coleiro joined the Institute of Agribusiness within
MCAST in early 2006 as a lecturer in animal science,
animal biology and sustainable development. Two
years later, he successfully obtained a BTEC Higher
Diploma in Further Education Teaching to further
support his lecturing and pedagogical skills. He
ING LOUIS AQUILINA
NEW PARTNERSHIPS
OFFICE DIRECTOR
18
INFORMATION
JOSEF BUTTIGIEG
NEW DIRECTOR OF THE
ISTITUTE OF BUSINESS
AND COMMERCE
Mr Josef Buttigieg has been recently appointed
Director of the Institute of Business and Commerce.
He is no new face to MCAST as he has been
contributing to this organisation prior to its setting up
in 2001. After graduating in Education, specialising
in Commercial subjects, Mr Buttigieg taught at both
Secondary Schools as well as at the Paolino Vassallo
Upper Lyceum, covering commercial subjects at
Ordinary, Intermediate and Advanced level. Parallel
to this, he opted to pursue further Youth Studies, an
area which he had been involved in for quite a few
years both locally as well as Internationally through
the European Youth Forum and related projects. At
the local level, Mr Buttigieg was actively involved in
a number of youth organisations. He also contributed
directly to a number of national events and initiatives.
Amongst a variety of others, he was actively involved
in the Steering Committee for one of the initial National
Minimum Curriculum reviews, as well as the setting up
of the first National Youth Policy Malta ever had.
Mr Buttigieg joined MCAST Institute of Business
and Commerce as a Deputy Director in its early
days. He was involved in the development of the
Institute’s curriculum and training provision as well
as a variety of projects and initiatives which the
Institute embarked upon over the years.
Media involvement is something which characterised
quite a number of years in Mr Buttigieg’s voluntary
involvement in a considerable number of NGOs.
He has been involved in the setting up and running
of one of the first community radios on the Island.
He was also involved in the management of a
private radio station, where he also experienced
journalism. Over the years he has been involved in
the production and presentation of quite a number of
radio programmes and features for both private radio
and TV stations, as well as the National Broadcaster.
Involvement in media also led to a brief and very
interesting adventure with Vatican Radio.
One of his interests is Culture, especially Maltese
culture and folkloristic aspects, and whenever
he manages to find some free time, he involves
himself in related activities.
Ing Louis Aquilina is the recently appointed Director at the Partnership sOffice.
He has been working at MCAST for over five years having joined in April 2009.
Ing Aquilina graduated in Electrical Engineering from the University of Malta
in 1987. He started his professional career in engineering with SGS (now ST
Microelectronics). During his 21 years there he covered various roles from
assembly engineering to production management. During his last 13 years at
ST he was responsible for production and engineering management of Quad
Flat Pack (QFP), integrated circuits assembly lines used in a wide spectrum
of applications from automotive to consumer electronics.
a lecturer, eventually being promoted to Senior Lecturer after attaining
the Post Graduate Certificate in Vocational Education and Training
(PGC in VET). He lectured in various subjects including Marine
Electrical Systems, Mechatronics, Quality and Business Improvement,
Industrial Process Controllers and Robotics at Levels 4 and 5. He
also lectured Level 6 students in Control Engineering, Electrical
Technology, Power Generation, Marine Electrical Technology and
Quality Assurance apart from mentoring and tutoring Levels 4, 5 and
6 students in connection with their final year projects.
He furthered his engineering studies at postgraduate level at the
University of Malta, graduating in MSc in Telecommunications in 2000.
He joined GSD, local manufacturers of the Coca Cola range of products,
as Production and Quality Manager before switching to MCAST in 2009.
Ing Aquilina joined the MCAST Institute of Mechanical Engineering as
Early this year his career progressed to Director at the Partnerships
Office. The role of his office is to run part-time courses for adults and
bespoke courses for the local industry, and also partner with local
stakeholders and foreign industry and institutions to provide quality
training addressing their needs both locally and abroad.
INFORMATION
19
NSTS
SCIENCE EXPO
20
INFORMATION
O
INFORMATION
21
MCAST
ENTREPRENEU
CENTRE
During the past academic year MCAST has been working on setting
up the MCAST Entrepreneurship Centre (MEC). This Centre will
provide a route for MCAST students into entrepreneurship by assisting
them to implement their entrepreneurial ambitions. The Centre will
act as an incubator for MCAST students who wish to start up their
own businesses. MEC’s role is to foster a culture of entrepreneurship
amongst students. The services will be available to those students who
are still attending College, as well as ex-alumni of MCAST.
The Centre aims to address the setting up of entrepreneurial activities
through the implementation of start-ups and the support of students
and MCAST alumni. It will also set up cooperation with the business
community in order to systematically support start-ups.
Some of the activities that will be organised include:
a. Networking and joint initiatives with local and foreign schools and
colleges, businesses, business representatives and other entities
in the community
b. The provision of training in entrepreneurship and related subjects
c. Visits and exchanges to local industrial and business organisations
or similar venues which will illustrate various economic activities.
Can anyone become an entrepreneur? Well, the honest truth is,
probably not… but the experience of entrepreneurship is invaluable,
as it will help to develop an entrepreneurial mindset that will translate
into more effective employment skills. Below is a student’s view of
taking on the “entrepreneurship challenge”, as she calls it.
“The first big challenge I faced was that of coming up with an innovative
business idea. I always thought of myself as not being much of a
creative and innovative person, however following some exercises,
I surprised myself. The project I ran does not exist anymore but the
experience I gained from it was invaluable.
22
I loved working on this project. From the creation of its Facebook page,
organizing a taster workshop, talking about it with people and getting
in touch with new and successful “faces” were all challenges that I
thoroughly enjoyed. I had a taste of what it is like working beyond the
usual 9am to 5pm timeframe, which I didn’t resent, because I began
to love working and actually became passionate about it.
“A man may die, nations rise
and fall, but an idea lives on.”
JOHN F KENNEDY
A challenge that I was worried about was making business phone
calls to people. I was okay sending countless emails and speaking to
people face to face about the project, however the phone calls pushed
me to the limits of my comfort zone.
One phrase that has been repeated to me many times is “don’t limit
yourself”; this piece of advice has driven me to do things I always
thought I could not do. I would recommend to young entrepreneurs to
take note of this, not limiting themselves because of age or any other
factors”. (Stephanie Camilleri )
If you are interested in finding out more about MEC and wish to sound
out an idea you may have, please contact either Dr Michelle Gialanze,
michelle.gialanze@mcast.edu.mt or Mr Ray Vella, ray.vella@mcast.edu.mt.
URSHIP
From left: Dr Michelle Gialanze and Mr Ray Vella
23
MARITIME INSTITUTE
GRIMALDI GROUP
DONATES €20,000
FOR THE UPGRADE OF THE BRIDGE AND
COMMUNICATIONS SIMULATOR AND PRESENTS
MCAST STUDENTS WITH €10,000 CASH PRIZES
24
MARITIME INSTITUTE
On Wednesday 14 May 2014, Grimaldi Group and its local company
Malta Motorways of the Sea Ltd presented MCAST with a donation of
€20,000 to upgrade the Bridge and Communications Simulator and
another €10,000 cash prizes to three Maritime Institute cadets who
distinguished themselves with outstanding results during their studies.
The Bridge and Communications Simulator is an essential part of
Maritime Training especially as MCAST offers training opportunities
that will lead to employment within a European and International
context. Simulation training is also an International Maritime
Organisation (IMO) requirement for the acquisition of international
maritime certifications. Simulation exercises offer a safe learning
opportunity to become proficient in bridge and communication
control situations before the students move on to consolidate their
experience with actual navigation at sea.
This simulator upgrade is essential due to the rapid developments
taking place within the Maritime Industry. An updated simulator
provides hands-on training opportunities for the mariner to further his
or her studies with the latest technology and equipment. Earlier on in
March 2007 Malta Motorways of the Sea Ltd donated € 130,000 to
upgrade the Institute’s Bridge and Communications Simulator.
The Grimaldi Award is a prestigious prize presented to the
MCAST Maritime Institute cadets who distinguish themselves
with outstanding results during their studies. Kenneth Grima,
Aris Giorgio Papanicolos and Philip Andrew Muscat received the
award for obtaining the best results during their studies and sea
training as part of the three-year Officer in Charge Navigational
Watch Course, which they successfully completed last year.
Students who join this course spend two academic years studying
at the Institute and 12 months training as cadets on board
different ships, travelling across international sea routes and
visiting many ports across the globe. The award, including a total
of €10,000 in cash prizes, is sponsored by Grimaldi Group and its
local company Malta Motorways of the Sea Ltd, as part of a longestablished collaboration with the MCAST Maritime Institute.
Maltese cadets are also offered opportunities to undertake their sea
time training on board vessels sailing under the flag of Malta Motorways
of the Sea Ltd. and other companies of the Grimaldi Group.
Hon. Joe Mizzi, Minister of Transport and Infrastructure and Hon.
Chris Agius, Parliamentary Secretary for Research, Innovation,
Youth and Sports, Dr Guido Grimaldi, Director of Malta Motorways
of the Sea Ltd, Dr Silvio De Bono, President of the MCAST Board
of Governors, Stephen Cachia, MCAST Principal and CEO, and
Capt. Ghassan Abdullah, the Institute’s Director, presented the
awards to the three young officers on Wednesday 14 May 2014, at
the Maritime Institute in Kalkara.
Dr Guido Grimaldi, Director Grimaldi Group, said that they are very
satisfied with the cadets that they have recruited from MCAST and
are fully committed to further support maritime studies and the
career development of the students. Dr Silvio De Bono, President
of the MCAST Board of Governors thanked Grimaldi Group for their
donation and congratulated the three officers on their exceptional
achievements. He mentioned the importance of the College’s close
contact with industry in order to keep the College courses updated
and the students adequately prepared for employment.
Chris Agius, Parliamentary Secretary for Research, Innovation,
Youth and Sports stated, “This initiative is important to help students
further their studies and eventually specialise in diverse areas
thus increasing our country’s educational pool. The government is
committed to help all students who aim to specialise in key areas.
However funding is limited and it is thanks to private companies
such as Grimaldi Lines we are achieving our aims.”
Joe Mizzi, Minister for Transport and Infrastructure thanked Grimaldi
Group for their continued support to the Maltese shipping industry. He
mentioned the recent developments in the Maritime sector that are
making Malta a centre of excellence in maritime services. He stated
that this initiative with Grimaldi Group, to support the training of Maltese
cadets, is a key milestone that Government will continue to nurture.
The MCAST Maritime Institute is renowned as Malta’s most
advanced maritime education and training institution, supporting
the local maritime industry with the provision of qualified and
experienced seafarers. It offers courses that lead to local and
international qualifications required by individuals aspiring for a
career in this industry, as well as for maritime enthusiasts, including
owners and drivers of all kinds of boats and pleasure crafts.
MARITIME INSTITUTE
25
THE LEVES PROJECT
The Institute of Applied Science has partnered with a German
College in Mochengladbach to coordinate a Comenius project to
study the effect of the classroom’s physical environment on the
students’ learning abilities.
The first visit took place in Malta at the Institute of Applied
Science. During this eleven-day visit all participants worked
together to set up the parameters for the experiments to be
carried out. The German participants also had the opportunity to
attend Maltese language classes. There were also entertainment
activities organised for all, including visits to heritage sites, a
treasure hunt in Mdina as well as a BBQ at Ghar Lapsi.
The scientific component was designed to investigate the effect that
physical variables such as temperature, noise, wall colour, humidity
and light have on the students’ learning abilities. The following
learning psychological criteria were investigated:
26
Short term memory
Long term memory
Reasoning
Attention
Understanding
Performance
The students believe that the physical factors of the classroom
will affect their learning according to the comfort of the classroom
and how it enables them to focus and concentrate. Classroom
investigations revealed that different learning skills are affected by
different factors as for example, silence enhances performance but
negatively affects understanding and attention. The classroom colour
purple was mostly seen to be negatively affecting learning. Factors
such as temperature of 22˚C and the classroom colour green have
an overall positive effect on all learning skills except for reasoning.
From the tests carried out reasoning was the only criterion which
was not positively affected by any physical conditions tested.
INSTITUTE OF
BUSINESS AND COMMERCE
INNOVATIVE AND
ORIGINAL PLANS
PRESENTED BY BUSINESS AND
COMMERCE DEGREE STUDENTS
INSTITUTE OF BUSINESS AND COMMERCE
27
Nine teams of young potential
entrepreneurs participated in the
annual Business Plan Presentation
organised by the MCAST Institute
of Business and Commerce. This
event, which forms part of the
Entrepreneurship Module, has become
a yearly calendar appointment for
the undergraduates reading for a B.A.
(Hons) in Business Enterprise.
The Business Plans included a multifaceted wireless charger for electronic devices, the solution to endless
parking hassles, a one-stop shop for the budget-conscious traveller, a primary school which promises to
mould Malta’s future entrepreneurs, a mobile app alerting investors of bull and bear markets, a structure
enabling PV panels to absorb 30% more solar energy, a fitness board game, a genie aiding professionals
with their errands and an intelligent parking clock.
The Entrepreneurship Module consolidates the theory acquired by the students over the years and
seeks to develop the entrepreneurial potential within each student.
“It is very positive to see students reaping the fruits of hard work which they would have invested
over the past weeks, not only in view of their academic studies, but even more so in relation to the
vocational nature of the degree they are currently undertaking. The true spirit of entrepreneurship was
very vibrant throughout the event and reflected itself in the creativity, innovation and enterprise start up
skills manifested through the variety of products for which business plans and sales presentations were
delivered,” stated Josef Buttigieg, Director of the Institute of Business and Commerce.
During a short message delivered at the end of the event, Mr John Cassar White, Chairman Bank of
Valletta plc highlighted the importance of having students who take up such challenges and ably face
the thorough grilling by the judges present at the event. He shared with those present his nostalgia of
the experience he lived at MCAST Institute of Business and Commerce for a number of years during
which he himself lectured most of the students who presented their work during the event.
“Entrepreneurship education is being given due importance at MCAST and at the Institute of Business
and Commerce. It is being recognised as a fulcrum for developing each student’s full creative
potential and problem-solving skills. The skills acquired from entrepreneurship education are a lifetime
investment,” said Rachel Curmi, Entrepreneurship Lecturer at the Institute of Business and Commerce.
The Business Plans and Sales pitch presentation was judged by Junior Achievement Young
Enterprise in view of their Start Up programme. A panel of three judges stemming from the ICT,
consultancy and services industry respectively judged the nine teams to select one winner.
The College would like to thank the Grand Hotel Excelsior and Bank of Valletta plc for supporting this event.
28
THE NINE BUSINESS PLANS
1
Hub-A-Lite is a uniquely designed lampshade and charging hub with a wireless charging
unit, three USB ports and an integrated alarm clock – an all-in-one solution for anyone’s
bedside table!
By: Wayne Caruana, Evicka Cauchi, Laura Cumbo, Marilisa Darmanin, Sefora Sant
2
e-CarPark is a website enabling motorists to reserve their parking space in advance within
private car parks such as those in hotels and supermarkets.
By: Isabelle Bonnici, Andrea Camilleri, Aleksandra Dimova, Maria Victoria Grech, Veronica Muscat
3
TravelDice is the only website which allows the budget conscious yet demanding traveller
to simultaneously identify flight and accommodation arrangement possibilities within the
same EU destination.
By: Kimberly Azzopardi, Kristina Buhagiar, Robert Busuttil, Lyndsey Hollington, Nicola Pace
4
Tesori is a primary school applying the Montessori Philosophy. The aim is to enrich and
nurture each child’s personal growth by encouraging self-exploration, creative thinking and
entrepreneurial behaviour.
By: Leahiares Gallo, Janice Micallef, Angie Polidano, Melicent Spiteri Gheiti
5
ShareBond Alert (SBA) is a mobile application that conveniently informs customers
when the price of shares and bonds increase or decrease, enabling investors to
instantaneously buy or sell.
By: Chantelle Marie Caruana, Claire Farrugia, Claire Portelli, Justina Zammit
6
RotoSolar is a structure enabling photovoltaic panels to automatically rotate according to
the sun, absorbing 30% more solar energy than fixed solar panel structures.
By: Matthew Bianco, Bernice Borg, Andrea Giglio, Cynthia Mifsud, Kathy Zammit
7
MoveIt Mania! is a fitness board game which brings people together through 50 graded
doable physical exercises. Dumbbells and an easy-to-follow pictorial exercise instruction
manual are included.
By: Larkin Bonnici, Idonia Calleja, Michelle Camilleri, Christian Cauchi, Kimberly Vella
8
Errand Genie is the only tailor-made service by professionals for professionals, to get your
everyday chores done in a timely and dependable manner. Your errand is our command!
9
ParKlok is the intelligent parking clock which sends timely SMS alerts to save motorists
from paying yet another parking fine when parked in a timed-parking zone!
By: Marilyn Camilleri, Cynthia Cuschieri, Matthew Farrugia, Adrian and Antoine Spiteri
29
ART AND DESIGN STUDENTS
SPEAK ABOUT THEIR ARTISTIC
WORKS AT THE VERDALA
SCULPTURE GARDEN
One of the last marks His Excellency, President Dr. George
Abela will be leaving the island and the general public is the
Verdala Sculptures within the gardens of the Verdala Palace
which incorporates an artistic, educational and ecological
experience. MCAST Art and Design students were the brains
and the hands behind the four sculptures entrusted to them
within the Verdala Sculpture Garden. Have a look at what
they told us in their own words.
30
L’ARABESQUE
by Pamela Bezzina, Christa Gerada and Andrew Portelli
The Arabesque is a figurative steel sculpture depicting a
curvaceous female arched in a dancing movement.The steel
wire is winded around the female figure to represent the
circular motions and movements made during dance. This is
made out of galvanised steel wire weighing circa 250kg.
“Being part of this new and innovative project was definitely a
grand opportunity for us graduating students, it was our last
possibility to exhibit works as MCAST Art and Design students.
This gave us artistic exposure and also the possibility to exhibit
alongside other established artists. We worked and strived hard
for over three months to achieve such a great outcome. We
would like to thank our tutors and the administration for all the
support and help we were given.”
YOU CAN DISCOVER
MORE ABOUT A PERSON
IN AN HOUR OF PLAY
THAN IN A YEAR OF
CONVERSATION
by Aaron Bezzina, Maria Borg, Alberto Zagami
The sculpture is about balance and harmony. The sphere
gives an illusion of holding up a large amount of weight
despite its inferior volume to the shape above it. The
universal geometric shapes used and the overall structure
aim to complement its environment.
“It is very positive for us, as students, to have our work sitting
alongside that of renowned artists and for the work to be so
prominently exposed. Also, despite having previously had our
individual work exposed in exhibitions, this particular work
allowed us to work on a larger scale.”
STAG SCULPTURE
by MariaIsabella Grech, Christian Micallef, Ezekiel Vassallo
The ‘Stag’ Sculpture was inspired by the Verdala Palace’s history
of being used as a hunting space by the Knights of Malta, who
were known to bring deer game specifically for that reason. This
allowed for us to create a stag which is just caught in a trap and is
unsuccessfully trying to escape. The sculpture was created with
intertwined wire for the body and nylon wire for the trap, allowing for
the material to juxtapose not only through the historical setting by
re-enacting the past to the present - but also via the rusty and shiny
material which stand out from nature’s setting.
“This experience was both humbling and honouring
for us to have our work placed alongside art pieces
of renowned artists as well as being so prominently
exposed. However, what had us feel most honoured was
the fact that the President of Malta was so appreciative
of our talent and hard work. This project was definitely
a great opportunity which allowed us to learn and better
our skills; hence, more mature as BA (Hons) Fine Art
students and as up and coming artists.”
THE PASSAGE OF TIME
by Nathalie Debono, Lisa Formosa, Ray Axiaq
The Passage of Time was mainly inspired from the history
of Malta. It is a literal and interactive piece which depicts
the passage of time. Once we used to be governed by the
knights of Malta; thus showing a knight going back in time
while emerging out to the present self.
“Being amongst renowned artists and the first artists who
exhibited an art piece in the Verdala Palace, was a huge
project and a very inspiring one. As students working in a
life case project, it is very important for us as it will give
us experience of working with professional people and
regarding every aspect and difficulty we may encounter.
It has been a very nice experience and we believe it has
resulted in positive outcomes.”
31
MCAST
STUDENTS
PRESENT BANIF
BANK WITH
PHOTOS
As part of a two-way project between MCAST and Banif Bank
(Malta) plc, first year students studying location photography as part
of their Higher National Diploma in Photography were commissioned
by the Bank to present a set of digital photos for each location that
the Bank is present in.
In this assignment, students were requested to consider a variety of
subjects including nature, people, village activity, urban structures
and landmarks, in an attempt to capture the spirit of the locality. The
students researched the locations assigned to them. They also went
out at different times of the day, to experiment with natural light.
MCAST has been collaborating with Banif on what are called ‘livecases’ – modules that give students the opportunity to work with
‘clients’ on projects that are simulations of real work situations – with
a real brief outlining requirements, specifications, brand guidelines
and so on. The work produced becomes the property of the Bank,
for use in the organisation’s publications.
“It is vital that our students are given opportunities to test their skills
and platforms to expose their work to an audience,” said Joe Attard,
Photography Lecturer at MCAST Institute of Art and Design.
The project aims to bridge the gap between education and industry,
while helping students with opportunities for exposure.
A cohort of eight students, under the guidance of their tutor Joe
Attard, undertook their fieldwork in Attard, Naxxar, San Gwann,
St Julian’s, Siggiewi, Rabat, St Paul’s Bay, Fgura and Qormi.
As for shooting in Gozo, the students took the opportunity to do
group field work.
32
“These live-cases give them a chance to produce work that has to
follow a client brief while taking into consideration the company’s
exigencies. The exercise is a taster of what they will experience
in the future.”
“We are very pleased with the good quality works we have in hand,”
said Charles Mizzi, Head of Marketing and Communication at Banif.
“We will be using the photos to produce some of the Bank’s artworks
and publications, whilst giving the students due credit and exposure.
Our collaboration with the Institute has grown into a very fruitful
relationship that has at heart educational opportunities for students.”
33
Sacha Attard Yeon
Francis Darmanin
Marlon Polidano
34
35
Lorraine Abela
Mark Pace
Kimberly Cassar Magri
36
Tamsin Pace Decesare
James Bianchi
PROGRESS
WEEK 2014
by Rebecca Vella Pawley, Higher National Diploma in Fine Art
Progress week is the week that lies between the end of the first semester
and the beginning of the second semester. During this week students are
asked to attend a particular school and paint murals with suitable images
to embellish various areas in the community. Those of us participating in
these activities are challenged to finish the project in five day’s time. Thus,
to facilitate our tasks, we usually work in groups.
This year, my classmates and I, following the Higher National Diploma Fine
Art Year 1, joined forces with students from the Higher National Diploma
3D Design, Year 1. Together, we were assigned to paint murals at the
newly set up Learning Zone at Tal-Ħandaq Girls’ Secondary School.
Before Progress Week, we were briefed about the project by our
lecturer, Ms Ruth Ancilleri, who gave us some background information
about the aims and wishes of the headmistress and the teachers.
We learned that the so-called Learning Zone was developed to
accommodate students with sensitive issues and difficult social
backgrounds. Therefore, the area we were assigned is meant to be
therapeutic for these girls, by making them feel welcome and at home.
Apart from this briefing, we also discussed the project with the
school teachers in charge of this room so that we could combine and
37
align our own initial ideas with theirs. In the end, we came up with a concept
that had us design the interior of the designated area so that we enlivened it
and gave it a homely look. Wherever we felt the need, we added a touch of
warmth through the inclusion of painted furnishings or colourful decorations.
But for us, the best part about this whole project was the moment when the
girls who will be using this room, visited us while we were working. It was very
touching to see them awestruck and to hear them say how much they liked the
room with its new look. Their smiles and appreciative faces melted our hearts.
Over these last three years I was involved in three different Progress Week projects,
within different schools. I found that these projects have always helped me to grow.
I somehow realized how good it feels to be able to give something freely to others.
I also learned how great it can be to work with others in the accomplishment of a
common goal. Last but not least, I realized how art can better people’s lives.
FANTASTIC LIGHTS PROJECTION SHOW
A six-minute 3D architectural mapping projection created by Art
and Design students was showcased during the Christmas period
on the façade of the Palace in St George’s Square, Valletta. Some
40 students worked on this V18 project.
38
EDUCATIONAL VISIT IN SICILY
During April 2014, a group of MCAST
Agribusiness students attended a four-day
educational visit in Sicily where they were
given demonstrations and workshops on
matters related to horse husbandry.
A big thanks goes to Pippa's Paddock for
providing the students with this excellent
educational opportunity.
MEP CANDIDATES DISCUSS
FUTURE OF AGRICULTURE
On Tuesday 18 March 2014 MEUSAC organised a
seminar whereby MEP candidates discussed the future
of Malta's agriculture with farmers and Agribusiness
students at MCAST’s Agribusiness Institute.
39
INSTITUTE OF INFORMATION AND
COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY
MCAST ICT INSTITUTE
WINS FIRST PRIZE
AT THE MALTA ROBOTICS OLYMPIAD
MCAST ICT students won first prize at the Malta Robotics Olympiad
organised by the Malta Council for Science and Technology (MCST)
and the Department of eLearning. This activity provided young persons
with the opportunity to develop their creativity and problem solving skills
through challenging and educational robotic competitions.
ICT students Noel Mizzi, Brendan Schembri, John Fenech and
Ian Chetcuti guided by lecturer Mr Franco Farrugia developed a
robot entitled Robotic Prescription Dispensing System. This robot
aids patients acquire medication without any physical need of
medical staff. It is also designed to cater for patients with visual
and hearing impairment disabilities.
Prior to the development of the robot, the team researched the
hardware and software required for the robot to work as efficiently
as possible. The robot consisted of a camera with facial recognition
40
INSTITUTE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY
capabilities to recognise the patient, a round container divided into
compartments to hold the necessary pills which turns according to
the configured time programmed by the professional staff or care
takers, and an empty slot from where the patient can then retrieve
the pills. The students also developed a website with the use of PHP
and MySQL to control and store the data remotely.
Prof. Tony Dyson, the developer of the World’s most lovable
Robot ‘R2-D2′ as featured in all the STAR WARS movies,
attended the Malta Robotics Olympiad. He conducted a keynote
speech about ‘Robots of the Future’.
ICT TEAM RANKS
SECOND IN THE HACK4MALTA
OPEN DATA HACKATON
The Institute of ICT team made up of Stephen Compagno, Derrick Agius, Enrico Aquilina
and Shaun Caruana, ranked second in the Hack4Malta Open Data Hackaton which was
organised at the Faculty of ICT, University of Malta on Saturday 29 March 2014.
HOMER stands for Harmonising the use of Open Data in the Mediterranean and the
aim is to make utilisation of the publicly available data (Open Data) by creating apps,
websites and applications for the benefit of the public. Governments are increasingly
recognising the benefits of making their data open and reusable.
The ICT team came up with a journey planner which helps the tourist to plan his stay
in Malta by getting a number of places of interest in the vicinity. The application gathers
information from publicly available datasets and other on-line services such as Google
Maps which makes it also possible to calculate the time needed to travel from one place
to another to help the tourist make the best use of the time available during his stay.
41
MCAST ICT
STUDENTS TO
REPRESENT
MALTA
AT THE MICROSOFT IMAGINE
CUP INNOVATION COMPETITION
Four ICT students will be representing Malta in the Microsoft Imagine Cup Innovation competition
following their participation in the national final held at the Microsoft Innovation Centre in April 2014. The
team was composed of Dylan Abela, Albert Herd, Keith Mifsud, and Mark Andrew Azzopardi and was
mentored by ICT lecturer Ranier Bonnici.
The Imagine Cup competition challenges students around the globe to think outside the box and come
up with innovation software solutions. The project presented by MCAST’s team was aimed at rendering
interior design more immersive by augmenting 3D objects (furniture and fittings) to any shell environment.
Keith used the Microsoft Kinect to automate the scanning of 3D models. Albert worked on a hand gesture
recognition API that acted as the main interface of the system. Dylan merged the software in a Unity project
that could be experienced in 3D through an Oculus Rift head-mounted display, while Mark was responsible
for the presentation of the project in front of the judges.
In his conclusive remarks, the head of the judging team hailed the project as one of the most technically
advanced that have been presented for the local Imagine Cup Innovation competition.
42
INSTITUTE OF
ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING
MCAST STUDENT
WINS TOP PRIZE
AT THE NSTF CONTEST FOR
YOUNG SCIENTIST
MCAST Engineering student, Juan Sarcia, won top prize at the Contest
for Young Scientists which reached its culmination during the NSTF
Science Expo, that was held at the MCAST Institute of Applied Science.
His winning project is a real-time vehicle ECU logging via android tablet.
Juan will represent Malta during the EU Contest for Young Scientists
(EUCYS) which will take place in Warsaw.
The main objective of this contest, which is organised by the NSTS
Foundation (NSTF), is to encourage students to be original and
creative in conducting scientific research and developing a scientific
or technological project. Students work either individually or in teams
to research and develop their own original scientific project which is
then exhibited during the Science Expo.
Juan’s project monitors fuel, speed, battery voltage as well as
faults and information obtained from the car’s ECU. The data gets
transferred onto an android application, on which it is illustrated
as real-time. The information can be saved and accessed from a
web page where it is recorded for monitoring. This system can be
implemented on any type of car.
The NSTS Foundation is the national organiser of the EUCYS and
since 1997 has been selecting students to represent Malta in this
pan European event. In 2009, MCAST Electronics student, Philip
Cardona, was the first Maltese student to be awarded a prize at
the EU Contest for Young Scientists. His project “Cappuccino Logo
Printer” was awarded second prize.
INSTITUTE OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING
43
INSTITUTE OF COMMUNITY SERVICES
SUCCESSFUL MCAST
CHARITHON 2014
The MCAST Institute of Community Services
organised a fund-raising CHARITHON (Charity
Marathon) on Friday 7 and Saturday 8 March
2014 at their premises at MCAST Main Campus
in Paola. The Ursuline Sisters and Osanna Pia
Home were the beneficiaries of the proceeds.
44
A series of activities were organised including various services offered
to the general public. These included Hair and Beauty Treatments;
Children’s Gym Activities; various Food Stalls; Musical Performances,
Sports Activities and Fitness Testing; Blood Donations; Abseiling;
Carwash; Treasure Hunt; Outdoor Camping; a Night Walk; Car Drifting;
Car Sound Installations and other fund raising activities.
Students from all levels, together with their respective lecturers, from the
five disciplines currently being taught at the Institute, namely Health and
Social Care, Early Years, Sports, Hairdressing and Beauty participated
and offered their services, skills and time. MCAST is further donating
all funds generated from the Institute’s Beauty and Hairdressing Salon
Services, during the month of February, towards these beneficiaries.
The Charithon proved to be a successful event both with MCAST
students, relatives and friends, as well as the general public. On Friday
the Institute grounds were inundated with students and staff from the
surrounding Institutes buying food, freshly prepared by our staff and
students, which varied from cooked takeaways and freshly baked
and decorated muffins to healthy shakes and juices for the calorie
conscious. The plant section required replenishing in the afternoon
due to the high demand while the carwash and abseiling had a steady
queue throughout. An activity which also proved successful was the
blood drive, with no less than thirty-three (33) donors in one morning.
This was supplemented by fitness testing and health checks by our
specialists. Children’s activities were also organized in the Gym and
balloon shaping for the very young ones was aptly assisted by our
Early Years and Care Students. Classes and sports competitions were
also organised. Last but not least, both Friday and Saturday proved
very hectic for the Hairdressing and Beauty students who relentlessly
serviced clients, having given up their part-time salon work on the
Saturday, with the kind permission of their placement sponsors. The
crowds were also entertained regularly by live musical presentations
and car shows. A night walk coordinated by the Higher National
Diploma Care Management students and the Care Management
Degree students also generated funds from collections as did the
outdoor camping and barbeque between Friday and Saturday.
Special thanks go to the AFM who not only provided us with a large
tent, but also took care of setting it up and taking it down.
A big thank you goes to all those who contributed and/or
participated, by giving their time and their donations, both material
and financial, for this noble cause.
45
WOMEN’S
DAY ACTIVITY
FOR DISADVANTAGED WOMEN
As part of International Women’s Day celebrations, a morning of pampering and
beauty therapy was organised for women from domestic violence shelters.
The event, organised by the HSBC Malta Foundation and MCAST Institute
of Community Services in collaboration with Banking on Women (BoW)
and HSBC Malta’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee, treated the ladies to
a variety of relaxation and beauty therapies, including facials, makeovers,
haircuts and hairstyling. These treatments were provided free of charge by
students and lecturers from the MCAST Institute of Community Services,
and gifts were handed out. Similar services were offered to women who
could not leave the shelters.
MOTHER’S DAY AT MCAST
Mothers of children with disabilities were
treated to a day of pampering at the Institute
of Community Services. The mothers received
hair and beauty treatments while their children
engaged in various fun and educational
activities prepared specially for them by students
following child care courses at the Institute.
Hon. Justyne Caruana, Parliamentary Secretary
for Rights of Persons with Disability and Active
Ageing, visited this activity.
46
SUPPORT SERVICES
MCAST DAY
AGAINST
HOMOPHOBIA
The discussion started off with the importance of dealing with
homophobia given that it affects everyone not just gay people!
Although attitudes in Malta are slowly changing, homophobia is
still present and this strongly impacts the identity development of
a person, especially during their youth. One of the young people
present also mentioned the impact this has on people coming out to
their parents, an important step in someone’s identity development.
The focus of the discussion then centred on the issue of gay bullying.
Bullying of all forms is wrong and is not tolerated at MCAST. It can have
very serious repercussions on a person’s life including depression,
anxiety, self-harm, and suicide. In the case of gay bullying, although
at times it can take the form of physical aggression, it often involves
excluding the person or passing snide comments, jokes, and gossip
precisely because a person is, or is perceived to be, gay.
Wednesday 14th May 2014 marked an important day for MCAST as
it was the first time that the International Day Against Homophobia
(IDAHO) was celebrated on Campus.
Following songs by Winter Moods, Mr Stephen Cachia, Principal and
CEO, Hon. Evarist Bartolo, Hon. Claudette Buttigieg, and Prof. Arnold
Cassola each gave a short speech on homophobia. All agreed that it
is important to tackle this issue from all fronts, and that it is through a
personal connection with lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans or intersex persons
that one realises what a strong negative impact homophobia can have.
Following this, the US Embassy screened their premiere of the video
“It Gets Better” for parents and siblings of LGBTI persons. After the
screening a panel discussion was held, moderated by Ms Sonja
Casha. The panel was made up of the Ambassador of the United
States, H.E. Gina Abercrombie-Winstanley; Ivan Grech of Winter
Moods; Ray Calleja, a local TV presenter; Gabi Calleja from the Malta
Gay Rights Movement; and Michael Conti, a counsellor at MCAST.
The final point of the discussion was on what can make MCAST
campuses more gay affirmative. On a personal level it is important
to examine one’s attitudes and prejudices and to be aware of
one’s language. It is also very important to speak up when bullying
is encountered and thus help give a voice to those who at that
moment have lost it. Reports of bullying always need to be taken
seriously and students and members of staff need to be educated
more about homophobia and bullying. Finally, one hopes that a
student society that takes the form of a gay-straight alliance is
set up on campus. This would focus on working together towards
a college life where nobody is discriminated against or bullied
because of their sexual or gender identity.
On a final note, if you encounter any bullying do not hesitate to
get in touch with the counsellors on counsellors@mcast.edu.mt,
or 2398 7115/7129/7133. If you would like more information or
support regarding sexual or gender identity issues, the gay helpline
is 21430006 or 99255559.
SUPPORT SERVICES
47
INSTITUTE OF BUILDING AND
CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING
MCAST STUDENT WINS
PRESTIGIOUS
INTERNATIONAL CITY
& GUILDS AWARD
Mr Pierre Zammit, a student at MCAST Institute of Building and
Construction Engineering, has been awarded the prestigious City &
Guilds Medal for Excellence. He was selected, both nationally and
internationally, in recognition of his outstanding work in his area of study,
namely Engineering Welding and Fabrication Technology. The award was
presented by City & Guilds and MCAST officials at the MCAST Main Campus,
in Paola, on Tuesday 1st April 2014.
The City and Guilds Medals for Excellence are awarded every year
to recognize the achievements of learners, lecturers and trainers who
have achieved results by producing exceptional work – going above and
beyond what is expected to achieve their goals. It recognises not only
excellent results but also those who show a true journey of progression
throughout their qualification.
From left: Mr John Vella, Director MCAST Institute of Building and Construction
Engineering, Ms Brid Healy, City and Guilds Regional Manager (Europe), Mr Stephen
Cachia, MCAST Principal and CEO, Dr Silvio De Bono, President of the MCAST Board
of Governors, Mr Joe Cilia, MCAST Lecturer, Mr Pierre Zammit, Student, Mr Ronald
Curmi, MCAST Registrar and Ms Pauline Buhagiar, MCAST Lecturer.
The Medal for Excellence Award was presented to Pierre Zammit by
Ms Brid Healy, City & Guilds Regional Manager (Europe), Dr Silvio De
Bono, President of the MCAST Board of Governors, Mr Stephen Cachia,
MCAST Principal and CEO, Mr Emanuel Attard, MCAST CAO, Mr Ronald
Curmi, Registrar and Mr John Vella, Institute of Building and Construction
Engineering Director.
Ms Brid Healy said that one million learners register with City & Guilds to
work towards one of its qualifications every year. Out of these only 100 were
awarded this prestigious award and Pierre Zammit is one of them. She
congratulated Pierre for his hard work, dedication and commitment and the
MCAST team for facilitating learning and encouraging potential for excellence.
Mr Stephen Cachia, MCAST Principal and CEO, congratulated Pierre
Zammit and praised him both for his achievement of this prestigious
award as well for his involvement in student life. He stated that Pierre
is an exemplary student that has made MCAST proud. Dr Silvio De
Bono, President of the Board of Governors, praised Pierre and spoke
about the capabilities and accomplishments of Maltese students and
their successes on international levels.
48
INSTITUTE OF BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING
BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION
ENGINEERING STUDENTS
ENTRUSTED WITH
THE RESTORATION OF
‘MINTNA CATACOMBS’
Students following the Restoration and Conservation programme at the
Institute of Building and Construction Engineering have been entrusted
with the restoration of the street level entrance structures to the ‘Mintna
Catacombs’ in Mqabba. This project will be carried out in part-fulfilment
of the MCAST Diploma in Masonry Heritage Skills Course.
The ‘Mintna Catacombs’ in Mqabba consist of underground
chambers and three street-level structures situated near the
roundabout between Triq il-Qrendi and Triq il-Konvoj ta’ Santa Maria.
The students have already presented a report documenting the
deterioration that the catacombs have undergone throughout the
years. They also gave suggestions on the appropriate methods of
cleaning, reconstructing and conservation of the original masonry.
49
VISIT TO LEED® SILVER
CERTIFIED US EMBASSY
Students reading for a BSc (Hons) in Construction and BSc (Hons)
in Building Services at the Institute of Building and Construction
Engineering were provided with the opportunity to visit the LEED®
Certified US Embassy at Attard.
The aim of this visit was for students to view the sustainable
building and learn more about LEED® certification. Embassy
Officers provided details about the LEED® Silver Certification
of the US Embassy complex with the aid of an informative
presentation. The sustainable features of the embassy building
were highlighted during the talk.
The embassy is built on 10 acres with an estimated cost of
$125Million and became operational in mid-2011. Care was taken
to reduce the “Heat Island Effect” by using substantial native
vegetation and light coloured paving. Light colour was used in the
building fabric with appropriate insulation to reduce the U-Values
of walls and double glazed windows. Other energy efficient
technologies include solar water heating, LED task lighting,
occupancy sensors, electric traction elevators and variable
frequency drives for pumps fans and motors.
A Building Automation System, also known as Building
Management System enables the facility managers to optimise
performance and reduce energy due to the dynamic response to
variations in climate conditions whilst keeping the internal space
within the optimal comfort conditions.
50
In fact, the internal air quality is of superior standard due to optimal
management of fresh air intake which is filtered with HEPA and
carbon filters, whilst the inside air is monitored for CO2 levels.
The building includes large underground cisterns where rain water
is collected and used as second class water mainly for irrigation
purposes. Other water saving features include waterless urinals,
automatic shut off faucets and low flow plumbing fixtures. These
result in a “calculated 48% less water use than the performance
requirements of EPAct 1992.”
SPORTS DEPARTMENT
MCAST
SPRING
DAYS
2014
SPORTS DEPARTMENT
51
52
SPORTS DEPARTMENT
The MCAST Sports Department once again organised Spring Days. The
Spring Days, held over three days, provided students and members of staff
the opportunity to engage in a variety of sports activities off campus, namely
at the beach. Team dynamics, communication, collaboration, leadership
and organizational skills are all enhanced through these outdoor activities.
Students and members of staff participated in Beach Volley, Beach Soccer,
Beach Handball, Dodge ball and Trekking. These activities also provide the
participants with the opportunity to meet other fellow students/colleagues
within the different MCAST Institutes. Students currently studying Sports at
the Institute of Community Services helped out in the running of the event as
part of their Unit ‘Organising Sports Events’.
SPORTS
MARITIME
DEPARTMENT
INSTITUTE
53
BENCH PRESS
COMPETITION
On 7 April 2014 the MCAST Fitness Centre organized a bench press competition in aid of charity.
Points where awarded according to weight as each athlete weighed himself before performing
three best lifts, were the total of the lifts were calculated with the Schwartz point system. A very
competitive and yet friendly environment engulfed the event, as a fierce number of competitors
and supporters were present. The winner of the event was presented with a photo shoot of himself
training at MCAST fitness gym.
WEIGHTLIFTING GYM
Recently the Sports Department launched the MCAST Paola
Weightlifting Gym at the lower gym, Corradino. This was
possible thanks to the Malta Weightlifting Federation and Sports
lecturer and weightlifter Mr Matthew Muscat Inglott who is
running the club and training the students. For more information
please check out http://on.fb.me/1iNQcQF
FITNESS GYM
For more information on the MCAST Fitness Gym please check
out http://on.fb.me/1kyZbK1 or contact roderick.schembri@
mcast.edu.mt. This gym has become very popular and a
number of classes are held regularly.
54
SPORTS DEPARTMENT
MCAST
GRADUATION
CEREMONIES
MCAST celebrated the success
of another 2755 students who
completed courses at Levels 1 to
4 during the last academic year.
The students completed courses in agribusiness, applied science,
art and design, building and construction engineering, business
and commerce, community services, electrical and electronics
engineering, information and communication technology (ICT),
mechanical engineering and maritime studies. One hundred and
twenty three students received certificates for completing Level 1
to 4 courses at MCAST’s Gozo Centres at Xagħra and Xewkija.
In addition, 16 students, 11 in Malta and 5 in Gozo, received
certificates for completing the MCAST Pathway to Independent
Living Programme, a course designed to help individuals with
mild to moderate disabilities or learning difficulties that acquire the
necessary skills for independent living.
GRADUATION
55
56
GRADUATION
Dr Silvio De Bono, President of the MCAST Board
of Governors, mentioned that MCAST has set up a
permanent structure whereby the College and Industry
could work together to provide students with the right skills
required by industry.
Mr Stephen Cachia, MCAST Principal and CEO, explained
that these ceremonies celebrate the achievements of
young individuals who opted to continue studying rather
than seeking employment soon after finishing compulsory
education. Over 73.1% of the students who are receiving
Level 1 to 4 certificates this month are continuing their
studies at MCAST through higher level courses.
In December, another cohort of 741 students was
conferred with higher national diplomas or bachelor’s
degrees after completing MCAST Level 5 and 6
programmes, while another 64 students received
certificates after completing MCAST aviation
maintenance courses.
In total, over 3,496 students successfully completed
MCAST courses during the 2012/2013 academic year.
GRADUATION
57
LEARNING SUPPORT UNIT
MCAST AND THE
PATHWAY TO
INDEPENDENT
LIVING UNIT
MCAST has always been committed to the inclusion of students with
disabilities among other minorities. The College caters for students
who need some form of extra support either academically or in other
areas of life. These students attend a variety of courses across all
levels with varying degrees of support. Some of these students
attend courses structured especially to cater for their needs. These
courses are offered through substantially separate modules of
learning and are coordinated by the Pathway to Independent Living
Unit which is one of the many student support departments within
MCAST. The courses offered by the Pathway to Independent Living
Unit are provided on a full-time basis and span over two years with
the possibility of further study within MCAST.
This unit has seen student intake increase from one class of six
students in 2007 to six classes of an average of ten students
each. The Unit is coordinated by Ms Sonja Casha and students
are supported by a team of eight lecturers and five LSAs. The
lecturing staff come from various backgrounds from education to
social work and are all committed and energetic in their common
aim to provide the best educational experience to students
attending this programme.
Students attending this course participate in classes with other
students with disabilities however they are wholly integrated
in all campus student activities and have access to use all the
facilities available. MCAST is currently undergoing some major
restructuring of many of its courses across levels 1, 2 and 3
through ESF 3.102 project called Inclusion for Employment.
58
The courses are also undergoing a total overhaul with more
investment being injected in the establishment of specific learning
outcomes based on entry level accreditation within the course
structure. Students following these courses will soon be attending
lectures in one of the new MCAST buildings as the Unit will be
relocated to the new Student House currently being built. The
space will include three simulated workshops which will be used
by students for the vocational skills learning units.
Pathway to Independent Living Courses cover three main areas of
study namely key skills, life skills and vocational skills and each of
these core areas include a set of learning outcomes, offered on two
levels according to students’ needs. Vocational learning outcomes
are essentially the foundation of all MCAST courses with life skills
and key skills being offered as support subjects to provide students
with a more complete educational experience.
Throughout these various subject areas, students can truly benefit
from a holistic and practical package of information and knowledge
that, when amalgamated together, can aid them into becoming
effective employees and responsible citizens who are able to live
independently in society.
Anyone who is interested in applying for any of the Pathway courses
next academic year, please contact Ms Sonja Casha.
Telephone : 23987320/4
Email: pathway@mcast.edu.mt
VOCATIONAL
LEARNING UNITS
by Ylenia Peresso
One of the main objectives of these courses is to prepare
students in finding and maintaining employment. It is
essential for students to acquire the necessary skills to
function within the employment sector and one of the ways
this can be achieved is through training both on the job
and in a simulated working environment within MCAST.
The Vocational Units, amongst other areas offered by
Pathway to Independent Living courses, are excellent
examples of how students can become significantly
more productive and willing to work whilst acquiring the
necessary skills within the working environment. This can
be attained through the development of various abilities
such as communication skills, teamwork, collaboration,
rights and responsibilities, organization, professionalism,
recruitment, safety issues etc.
This learning experience also takes place inside
workshops on MCAST Campus. The vocational learning
units offered by Pathway to Independent Living courses
are focused on three employment sectors, namely
Hospitality, Production and Retail and Office Work.
Having the indispensable guidance of staff members,
students get to choose the preferred vocational area
which is most suitable to their abilities. During the
final year of study students are required to have a
work placement in the local industries. In some cases
students do so well that the employer offers them a more
permanent position. Students who finish the course are
introduced to ETC to register for work.
PSHE
by Charmaine Attard Bezzina
Young people experience various inter and intra personal
challenges as they go through adolescence and gradually
take up adult roles and responsibilities. These challenges
arise from a broad array of spectra such as physical,
cognitive, emotional, psychological and social changes.
We emphasise upon the uniqueness of every student
and we continuously nurture their specific talents and
competences so as to develop their skills and thus
enhance their chances for employability. The topics
dealt with in the Personal, Social, Health and Emotional
(PSHE) lessons take this into consideration to equip
the individuals with an understanding of themselves
and of the world around them. In fact, amongst other
things, students will learn about and experience different
communication methods to be able to communicate
effectively in different social situations. Character
formation and positivity are at the centre of our learning
environment. Students are encouraged to improve their
attitude towards others around them and towards the
world of work. Empathic communication as well as the
recognition and expression of appropriate emotions
are other topics discussed during lessons. Through this
module the student will learn to recognize and express
various emotions in their appropriate context. Other
topics discussed during PSHE lessons are healthy living,
leisure and recreation. Students will have the opportunity
to experience healthy living options and understand what
constitutes substance abuse and its consequences.
Students would be urged to experience and participate in
a range of hobbies and pastimes as these are crucial in
contributing towards a healthy lifestyle.
59
LITERACY AND
CITIZENSHIP
by Matthew Xuereb and David Callaby Floridia
Literacy is also essential in the educational
formation of students who attend the Pathway
to Independent Living Course. All students
benefit from both Maltese and English literacy
sessions. However, this is done in a manner
which is different from the methods that we
are usually accustomed to. The course is
specifically designed for students depending
on different academic competences available
within two teaching streams, namely key skills
and life skills. Students aspiring to continue
their studies at foundation level choose the
key skills stream and therefore have four
weekly sessions of Maltese and English.
Students who are more inclined towards
employment choose the life skills stream.
The material covered by the students is
targeted towards employment, so as to help
bridge the gap between education and the
world of work.
On a separate note, Citizenship is
fundamental for students’ personal
development. In this regard, students
become aware of their Identity, Rights and
Obligations, Communication, Environmental
Issues, Current affairs and Community
involvement. Additionally we address current
national and global issues, which help
students reflect about their role as mature
citizens in society.
SEXUALITY
by Dr Claire Azzopardi Lane
As has been already mentioned, the Pathway to Independent
Living course is a holistic programme that targets several
aspects of our students’ social well-being. Personal and social
etiquette are known to impinge on a person’s public life as well
as on their potential for finding and maintaining employment.
Part of the personal and social development students
experience transcends into the expression of their sexuality.
Persons with disability are frequently assumed to be asexual and
any manifestations of their personality that goes against this myth
is received with surprise, scorn, and often reproach. Therefore the
development of personality and sexuality of persons with disability
is addressed within the programme’s educational content as this
would eventually foster global well-being that allows students to
express themselves in socially accepted ways.
Socio-emotional difficulties could possibly emerge when the
sexual needs of young people with disability are not addressed
as part of their formal or informal education. This may have an
impact on the person’s ability to cope in the community and
ultimately on their place of work. Given the inclusive social
context persons with disability are aiming to be working in, their
exposure to experiences that have an impact on their sexuality is
bound to emerge at some point. The work environment can act
as a platform for the development of friendships for people with
disability. Yet their experiences in this environment can be less
positive and hence students have to be geared and prepared to
encounter several types of situations in various contexts that these
persons make part of. Issues can range from the emotional to
physical manifestations of the persons’ sexual self.
We also identify relationships that can be created with other
personnel in the workplace. This awareness can contribute to
a better understanding of every employee and also enhance
inclusion and work efficiency while at the same time avoiding
conflict or even emotional or physical abuse.
The ultimate goal of this programme is to promote holistic wellbeing, education and employability that will support the person’s
social inclusion as they go from puberty to adulthood.
60
FUNCTIONAL
NUMERACY
by Claranne Micallef
Congruous with what has been mentioned in the literacy
section, numeracy is delivered in as functional a manner as
possible. This means that Mathematics is delivered through
two main teaching streams, being Key Skills and Life
Skills respectively. Students are presented with examples
from everyday life, and therefore use practical situations
that they could experience in their day-to-day routines. To
achieve this, concepts are broken down in such a way to
aid association (linking mathematical concepts with life) and
recall (remembering functions and applying them).
A variety of strategies and resources are used, to cater for as
many learning capabilities as possible. The aim of this process
is to help students consolidate what they would have previously
learnt whilst exposing them to new, practical knowledge.
Revision work then reinforces these acquired numeracy skills
and how they can be applied for a functional lifestyle.
The numeracy syllabus covers most mathematical concepts
but emphasis is placed on topics that are substantially
relevant to our students and their needs towards a less
dependent life and employability.
Overall, topics taught are general principles (basic
fundamentals, which include number values, addition,
subtraction, multiplication, division, patterns, fractions, etc),
percentages and decimals, time and money management,
weights and measures, data handling and perception of
space, to name a few.
ICT
by Denise Galea Pirotta
All students following the Pathway to Independent Living
Programme benefit from ICT lectures which help to equip
them with better skills in relation to the use of computers,
laptops, tablets and other technological material that are
currently available in today’s world. Special focus is placed
on how ICT can be used at the workplace. Students who
aspire to work in offices shall find specific ICT tasks highly
helpful to become further proficient in the use of particular
applications such as Word Documents, PowerPoint
presentations and safe Internet Browsing. Students will be
shown how to use the internet, emails and certain social
networks in a safe manner. They are also encouraged to
use search engines that could help them find and access
potential employment possibilities throughout various
sectors. Additional training is provided to help students
create and maintain an updated curriculum vitæ and
application form templates, which are important requisites
when applying for a job once they emerge into the world
of work. Also students are made aware about certain risks
associated with the use of computers, such as viruses
and their prevention, dealing with spam and the necessity
of having password protection knowledge as well as the
significance of privacy issues when accessing the internet.
ICT has become an integral aspect within today’s society.
As such it is necessary to equip students with knowledge
and practical skills that help them to accomplish successful
results when dealing with technology in everyday life.
We do our very best to see that students benefit from the
latest technological equipment which are under constant
development and which are also becoming increasingly
popular, within the ICT field.
Ultimately numeracy is aimed at empowering students to
use their acquired skills and multiple intelligences.
61
ACHIEVE A
LEVEL 3
VOCATIONAL
QUALIFICATION
IN 3 STEPS
NEW COURSES
All Vocational courses at these levels have been rewritten and
renewed, with new teaching and learning material aimed to make them
more relevant and interesting for our students.
MORE TIME FOR VOCATIONAL SUBJECTS
More time will now be allocated to vocational subjects. In our level 2 courses,
students will have 16 hours of sessions per week in the vocational area of
their choice while also attending lessons of the six key skills.
62
LEVEL 3 VOCATIONAL QUALIFICATION
LEVEL 1
LEVEL 2
LEVEL 3
Students need to
achieve all credits or
else retake and pass
the IAT to progress to
level 2.
A minimum of 30
credits out of 60
in order to progress
(similar to two O-level
subjects). Relevant 30
credits to be identified
for each institute.
Meet all Level
3 criteria for full
certification.
Otherwise, awards
issued instead of
certificate.
IMPROVED LEVEL 1
AND LEVEL 2 COURSES
Your level 3
qualification is the
key to proceed to
higher level courses
at MCAST: Advanced
Diploma (level 4),
Higher Diploma (level
5) and Degree (level 6)
As from academic year 2014/15, our Foundation courses at
levels 1 and 2 will be undergoing 4 important changes leading
up to our Vocational courses at level 3:
CONTINUOUS TRANSITION
TO FULL CERTIFICATION
The Foundation courses at Level 1 and 2 will serve as a foundation
level leading in a smooth and continuous way into the level 3
vocational courses, with students being fully certified at the end of level
3 if they achieve all the set criteria for level 3.
AWARD FOR ALL THAT HAS BEEN ACHIEVED
Those who do not meet the full requirements at level 3 will receive an
Award which will include all the student’s achievements by credits and level.
Will students be able to start into level 3 directly?
Yes, the present entry requirements will still apply. Students
obtaining two (2) SEC examinations at Grades 5˚C or higher will
be eligible to start immediately at level 3 according to the entry
requirements of the relevant vocational course. In most courses, a
full “Secondary School Certificate and Profile (SSC&P)” at Level 2
may be accepted in lieu of one (1) O-level pass.
At what level can students who have not obtained SEC
passes at Grade 5 or higher be able to start a course?
Students who achieve two SEC subjects from Maltese, Mathematics
or English at Grades 6 or 7 can start directly at level 2. Students who
achieve a level Secondary School Certificate and Profile (SSC&P) –
formerly known as the school leaving certificate – at Level 1 will be able
to start at Level 2. These students may also be asked to sit for an Initial
Assessment Test (IAT) to serve as a guide whether level 2 is the most
appropriate level for a student to start in. Other students will sit for an
Initial Assessment Test (IAT) which serves as a guide to indicate whether
level 1 or level 2 is the most appropriate level for a student to start in.
What will happen to students who do not achieve the
necessary credits to progress to level 2 or level 3?
These students will be able to repeat the units they have not
achieved with attendance the following year to enable them to
achieve the required credits to progress.
From where can I get further information?
Email career.guidance@mcast.edu.mt or call on 2398 7135/6.
LEVEL 3 VOCATIONAL QUALIFICATION
63
FASHION IS NO
by Louise Aquilina
Having been absent from the London scene for
four years I can already sense some changes –
which evidently shows the pace at which this
captivating city moves. I’d love to be back.
I am back here reading for an MA in Fashion –
and I have managed to land on the best course
that I could possibly have found at Kingston
University. It is as progressive as they come –
and for Fashion that is most absolutely the key.
Fashion, to many people, means clothes. Well let
me tell you: FASHION IS NOT A GARMENT. This
may shock many of you but I have believed this
for quite some time. Yet it took this MA to support
my ideas and give me the courage to go with
them. To follow the truth. My truth.
64
FASHION
Fashion has materialized into garments for that
is what sells, but if you scratch a little deeper
under the superficial facade that many believe
to have nothing underneath, you will notice that
the Fashion that matters, and that is the most
successful, has a much deeper meaning than
colour, texture, fabric and silhouette.
Fashion is a way of thinking, a way of looking at
and approaching the future. Look into the past,
but not to repeat it, to learn from it, and find new
forms of expression that are not habitual. To be
a good designer one cannot live in a shallow
bubble of aesthetics, and it must be said that
just because one has the capabilities to make
patterns, sew and draw (which without doubt
is essential) it does not mean that they are
designers – to be a designer is to intelligently
interpret a situation that has meaning, be it
OT A GARMENT
political, social, cultural or any other area that
may lead to movements of change.
Fashion is the investigation of where culture
is moving to next – it is the art of capturing the
‘NEXT’ – whatever is next. It most definitely
is not a gown – however beautifully made;
the gown could be the materialisation of the
concept / approach, but without the idea any
garment or product is empty.
To quote a fellow student of mine Esmeralda
Dominguez: “An artist without a message, without
a concept, without an intention is just an artisan” –
nothing wrong with being an artisan, but I say aim
for the stars and be more than an artisan.
Fashion is a philosophy – capture
the future intelligently and you
will be on the route to becoming
a designer. Dig deeper – forget
clothes! Find your truth...
And for further reading check out my blog:
http://louiseaquilina.wordpress.com
FASHION
65
GOZO CENTRE
GOZO CENTRE STUDENTS –
AMBASSADORS FOR
SUSTAINABILITY
A group of Electrical Engineering students,
attending the MCAST Gozo Centre, recently visited
Lüdenscheid, Germany, on a Life-Long Learning
project entitled "Sustainability in the New Europe –
Ambassadors for Sustainability".
This project aims to get together learning
communities from different parts of Europe to work
together on sustainability and renewable energy
issues. The foreign partners involved in this project
include Glasgow Kelvin College, Lüdenscheid’s
Berufskölleg für Technik des Markishen Kreises and
Groningen’s Alfa College.
During the first year of this project, students
from each participating college will analyse their
respective country. This will include conducting
research on government set targets, strategies,
policies and good practices focusing on energy
and water conservation, renewable energy and
electromobility. During the international meetings the
students will share and discuss their good practices
GOZO CENTRE
66
with all members of the participating countries. A
similar meeting, held in Gozo, involved presentations
delivered by Eco Gozo officials.
During their stay in Germany, the group visited
Alfa College in the Netherlands, where they had
the opportunity of meeting the College CEO and
International Co-ordinator. The students also
participated in several industrial visits organised
by the German host college. These included a
visit to Spelsberg GmbH, a leading manufacturer
of generic and specialised electrical junction
boxes, distribution boards, boxes and fire-resistant
electrical encasements; Fischer Elektronik
GmbH, a leading manufacturer of heat-sinks,
electrical and electronic connectors and aluminium
enclosures, and DIAL GmbH, the renowned
Institute of Building and Lighting Technology,
developer of the DIALux software for lighting
design. The programme also included a visit to the
Phänomenta Science Museum in Ludenscheid and
a cultural visit to the Cologne Cathedral.
ACHIEVE A
LEVEL 3
VOCATIONAL
QUALIFICATION
NEW COURSES
MORE TIME FOR
VOCATIONAL SUBJECTS
CONTINUOUS TRANSITION
TO FULL CERTIFICATION
AWARD FOR ALL THAT
HAS BEEN ACHIEVED
Your level 3 qualification is the key to proceed to
higher level courses at MCAST: Advanced Diploma
(level 4), Higher Diploma (level 5) and Degree (level 6)
Go to page 62 for more information
NEW applications
for full-time courses
1. WHERE TO APPLY
AGRIBUSINESS COURSES
Triq Ħal Luqa, Ħal Qormi
INFO TALK: 26 June 18:00 to 19:00*
2. WHEN TO APPLY
APPLICANTS WITH
SURNAME STARTING WITH
DATES
Monday
21 July
A
Tuesday
22 July
B
MCAST Main Campus, Corradino Hill, Paola
INFO TALK: 25 June 19:00 – 20:00*
Wednesday
23 July
C
ART & DESIGN COURSES
Thursday
24 July
D/E/F
Friday
25 July
G/H/I/J/K/L
Monday
28 July
M
Tuesday
29 July
N/O/P/Q/R/S
Wednesday
30 July
T/U/V/W/X/Y/Z
APPLIED SCIENCE COURSES
Misraħ l-Għonoq, Tarġa Gap, Mosta
INFO TALK: 25 June 18:00 – 19:00*
BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING COURSES
INSTITUTE OF BUILDING
& CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING
T/Ġ fi Triq il-Kbira, Naxxar
INFO TALK: 25 June 18:00 – 19:00 & 27 June19:00 – 20:00*
BUSINESS & COMMERCE COURSES
INSTITUTE OF BUSINESS & COMMERCE
INFO TALK: 27 June 18:00 – 19:00*
COMMUNITY SERVICES COURSES
INFO TALK: 25 June 19:00 – 20:00*
ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING COURSES
INSTITUTE OF ELECTRICAL
& ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING
INFO TALK: 26 June 18:00 – 19:00*
GOZO CENTRE COURSES
GOZO CENTRE
132, Triq it-Tiġrija, Xagħra, Gozo
INFO TALK: 26 June 09:30 – 10:30 at MCAST Xagħra Centre, Gozo
ICT COURSES
INSTITUTE OF INFORMATION
& COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY
INFO TALK: 26 June 19:00 – 20:00*
MARITIME COURSES
MARITIME INSTITUTE
Villa Portelli, Marina Street, Kalkara
INFO TALK: 27 June19:00 – 20:00*
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING COURSES
INSTITUTE OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
INFO TALK: 27 June 18:00 – 19:00*
PATHWAY TO INDEPENDENT LIVING
Students’ House, MCAST Main Campus, Corradino Hill, Paola
INFO TALK: 27 June 10:00 – 11:00*
*At the New IBAC Block, MCAST Main Campus, Paola
Application offices are open from 08:30 to 12:00
Our career advisers will be available (without appointment) between 7 July
and 1st August, from Monday to Friday, between 08:30 and13:30, at the
Student House, MCAST Main Campus, Paola to answer your questions and
offer personal career advice.
1. Applicants who cannot present their application on the above dates may apply
on Thursday 31 July or Friday 1 August between 08:30 and 12:00.
2. Applicants who will be abroad on application dates have to submit their
application before these dates at the Registrar’s Office, Administration Block,
MCAST Main Campus, Paola. The travel ticket must be shown as a proof that the
Applicant will be abroad.
3. Applicants who wish to apply for courses held in Malta, and who during
the days of Receipt of Applications are residing in Gozo, may submit their
application at the MCAST Gozo Centre, Xagħra.
4 . Applicants may ask another person to present their application as long as the
application is signed by the applicant and all the necessary documents are attached to
the application. The person presenting an application in the name of another person
must also present his/her ID card.
5 . Applications without all the necessary documents will not be accepted.
6 . Foreign Applicants have to submit their Application at the Registrar’s Office, Room
112, Administration Block, MCAST Main Campus, Paola.
7 . Application Form A is to be filled in by those applicants who were not students
at MCAST in academic year 2013/14 and by those who wish to restart a course.
8 . Applicants who will be sitting for SEC re-sit examinations in September 2014 and
at the time of application (21 July 2014 - 1 August 2014) do not satisfy the entry
requirements of a course, can still apply provisionally. These applicants are required
to specify their second preference as a fallback in case they are not successful in
the re-sit examinations. Applicants who obtain a pass in the re-sit examinations in
any subject/s, need to inform the Office of the Registrar within five working days
from publication of the result for the provisional application to be processed. If
unsuccessful, applicants will be offered the second course of preference (if eligible).
9 . Applicants applying under the maturity clause must also present an Employment
History Record for any work experience claimed, together with a motivation letter.
10. All applicants must fill in the official Application Form A (in triplicate) and submit
it together with the original ID Card (+ photocopies from both sides),original
Certificates/result slips (and photocopies), School Leaving Certificate (or Secondary
School Certificate and Profile (SSC&P)) (and photocopy).
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Call 2398 7135/6 or email career.guidance@mcast.edu.mt
A SHOWCASE
TO YOUR
FUTURE CAREER

INTERVIEW WITH DR SILVIO DE BONO PRESIDENT OF

Transcription

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