Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

EUROPEAN REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT FUND EUROPEAN SOCIAL FUND COHESION FUND MALTA2007-2013

Structural Funds in Malta

Success Stories

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Structural Funds in Malta

Success Stories

Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

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Optimising Transport Links

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Climate Change and Renewable Energy

Creating a Stronger Private Sector

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Treating water as a precious resource

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Risk Prevention and Flood Relief

Enhancing our knowledge and Innovation

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Upgrading Malta’s waste management infrastructure

Investing in the Health Sector

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Improving Malta’s Tourism Product

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CONTENTS

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Creating a Stronger Enterprise Infrastructure

Enhancing the Education Experience

Lifelong Learning and Employment

Public Administration

Equal Opportunities

Urban Regeneration

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

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Foreword: Report on EU Funds for period 2007 – 2013 Louis Grech Deputy Prime Minister / Minister for European Affairs and Implementation of the Electoral Manifesto

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uring the seven years of the 2007 – 2013 programming period we have utilised the €850 million of EU funds available well. These were augmented by other public and private monies to exceed €1 billion. This investment has allowed us to make significant progress in key areas such as the economy, environment, health and, consequently and most importantly, in the quality of the lives of our citizens.

The effects of this structural aid was to improve our human capital, enhance the country’s physical infrastructure, as well as increase the efficiency of Malta’s economic units, especially small and medium-sized enterprises.

Citizens’ trust in the European project is currently at a low ebb, due primarily to an insufficient sense of urgency and commitment of implementation of decisions taken. European funds are one of the most important tools available to the EU to restore credibility.

If we are to succeed in making Malta one of the most successful countries in Europe, we must ensure that economic development be balanced with environmental sustainability and social equality. The ultimate aim of all our efforts in these areas must be the well being of our people.

It is with this firmly in mind that we have used these funds by allocating €87 million to education, €72 million to healthcare and another €72 million to our environment. We have also allocated €51 million to our private sector, which we consider to be the prime motor of our economy. Malta has had a successful record

Dr Ian Borg Parliamentary Secretary for the EU Presidency 2017 and EU Funds in accessing and administering these funds, with our absorption rate ranking with the highest in Europe.

After concluding the negotiations with the European Commission in relation to the 2014 – 2020 programming period, we turned our attention towards the implementation aspect of EU funded initiatives. Government has identified three main priorities, namely: competitiveness, environmental sustainability and the development of human capital.

These priorities have been highlighted in the various Operational Programmes which will support around €1 billion worth of investment in the Maltese economy. This investment will contribute significantly towards Malta’s economic growth as well as to the creation of more, and better jobs, for our citizens.

Now that the implementation process has gained momentum, with calls for project proposals being issued on a regular basis, our efforts are focused on ensuring the timely and effective implementation of projects which will enable us to achieve Government’s objectives.

Being part of the European Union is about providing countries and their citizens with the best possible opportunities to grow and prosper in peace and security. It is about reducing wealth inequalities, and providing the best possible standards in areas such as healthcare and education for our citizens. With judicious management and administration by my Government, EU funds will go a long way to ensure that the Maltese economy will have a sound underlying structure for many years to come.

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he 2007 – 2013 programming period was the first full sevenyear programming period ever availed of by Malta. This was the first time that we went through the full cycle of a whole programme, the successful implementation of which depended very heavily on the public administration of this country. I am proud to say that as a country we have been extremely successful in implementing the whole seven-year programme and this has only been possible thanks to the dedication and hard work of all those involved.

Throughout this programme we have also worked hand in hand with civil society as our partners in ensuring that the positive impact of the 2007 – 2013 Structural Funds is felt right across Maltese society. It is this partnership process which has given us the required knowledge and expertise to design programmes and grant schemes that have the maximum positive impact possible, which impacts will continue to be felt over the coming years.

Through the Structural Funds we have sought not only to make Malta more competitive but also to reach out to those who are the most vulnerable in our society.

During this programming period we have provided access to finance through Financial Instruments to more than six hundred SMEs whilst more than five hundred firms in key sectors such as the tourism industry and the manufacturing industry have benefitted from more than €30 million in direct grants.

Acutely aware that the future lies with our ability to innovate, unprecedented investment has taken place in creating an R&D

infrastructure with a National Interactive Science Centre taking centre stage.

At the same time, more thousands of people received training aimed at enhancing individual personal skills and giving vulnerable groups greater opportunities of forming part of the labour market. We have invested millions of euros to provide females wishing to join the labour market with the best possible supporting infrastructure to do so.

The 2007 – 2013 programme has provided a solid basis from which Malta can look forward with confidence to the challenges ahead. The experiences gained and the lessons learnt will stand us in good stead for the next seven-year programming period during which more important investments will take place.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

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Theme

Improving Malta’s Tourism Product

Encouraging the development of facilities for the tourism industry is considered vital given its importance for the local economy and the substantial employment tourism generates. It is in this light that a number of projects financed through EU funds were undertaken with the aim of improving the local tourism product. Investment, such as the upgrading of promenades, fortifications and the conservation of prime cultural sites, was carried out in both Malta and Gozo with the goal of reviving a number of sites that have high touristic value.

In line with Malta’s tourism strategy of developing niche markets, investments were also targeted towards developing religious tourism, cultural tourism, diving, as well as other activities such as boating, yachting and cycling. Accessibility to all was a fundamental aspect of all the investments carried out, thereby ensuring the creation of cultural public spaces and attractions which are available for all to enjoy and experience.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

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Upgrading of Żewwieqa Waterfront

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ore than €4 million from the European Regional Development Fund were invested in the upgrading of the Żewwieqa Waterfront in Mġarr Gozo with the aim of enhancing the area in particular, and the Gozo tourism product in general.

Through this EU funded project, the entire stretch of the waterfront has now become an attractive area capable of meeting the recreational needs of a wide spectrum of the community, including the family, the physically impaired as well as specific sectors including fishermen, yachting and boat enthusiasts and the physically active, such as joggers and cyclists.

The project has brought to life an area which has a high touristic potential thereby contributing towards improving Gozo’s competitiveness. This tourism zone has been enhanced through the creation of pedestrian zones, open spaces and walkaways along the waterfront’s edge which are accessible to all. The integrated approach adopted by this project has directly contributed towards the enhancement of the port area, the natural vistas and viewpoints that are highly sought by visitors and locals alike. It has also increased the competitiveness of the economic operators of the area.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Upgrading of Tourism Zones with landscaped urban spaces and other facilities

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pgrading of the local tourism product by enhancing urban spaces through landscaping and investment in tourism facilities was considered vital in terms of increasing Malta’s competitiveness in the tourism sector. Focus was directed towards improving local and tourist perception over three primary locations – Qawra, Pembroke and St. Paul’s Bay. Nearly €14 million in EU Funds were invested in this project through landscaped urban spaces and additional facilities enabling new leisure activities.

More specifically, in the Qawra area, a new promenade was constructed, covering also a sizable landscaped area with shaded seating and open views. To further capitalise on Malta’s marine image, a national aquarium has also been built for the enjoyment of locals and tourists alike. This was complemented by a marine archaeology museum and a diving institute enabling support for niche market development and branding.

In Pembroke, EU funding targeted the development of green gardens, a cycle path and the Garigue Heritage Park. As a result of the project, Pembroke gardens now provide a unique experience by combining greenery, large open spaces and sea views for people to relax and enjoy. The enclosure of a cycling track as well as the rehabilitation of the Garigue Heritage Park within the project has further enriched the experience of the area by providing a leisure activity for pedestrians, joggers and cyclists in natural surroundings.

In St. Paul’s Bay, funding contributed to the provision of a continuous stretch of promenade of circa 1km along the seafront, thus providing pedestrians with better spaces to enjoy coastal views. The promenade, which was originally limited due to the restricted width of the road and parking of vehicles, is now connecting Buġibba Front to Wignacourt Tower stretching out to the St. Paul’s Bay primary school.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Restoration and rehabilitation of historic fortifications

Enhancing the Heritage Experience of Fort St Elmo and Fort St Angelo

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35 million were invested in the restoration and rehabilitation of the fortifications surrounding Valletta, Mdina, Birgu, Senglea and the Gozo Citadel. These bastions form an integral part of Malta’s military architecture as well as Malta’s landscape and are considered as the most important builtup heritage within Malta and Gozo. Most fortifications were, however, in a state of disrepair and therefore required urgent interventions. The works undertaken through this project present the first ever large-scale restoration intervention on Malta’s historic fortifications.

Through the extensive restoration works covering circa 6kms, the fortifications re-acquired their due attractiveness and visual power. They were given back their pride as historical and cultural monuments and have now become prime tourism sites due to their unique attraction within Malta’s holistic tourism product. In fact, the project has enabled the recuperation of dilapidated areas by giving them back to the public to enjoy. Part of the investment was directed towards the setting up of the Fortifications Interpretation Centre in Valletta. This further enhanced the touristic experience by creating an enabling tool focusing on increasing awareness and knowledge of these unique bastions.

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ort St. Elmo and Fort St. Angelo collectively benefited from more than €25 million worth of investment with the aim of giving these unused or underutilised historical buildings back to the local population and tourists for cultural purposes. Open spaces, which are now fully accessible, have been regained whilst these historical cultural sites can now be promoted as high quality touristic attractions.

Fort St Elmo has been totally revived with the restoration of ramparts covering a length of 670 metres ranging from the Malta Conference Centre to the Vendome Battery.

These fortified walls are now fully accessible for safe walks in urban spaces enjoying open sea view and free from the intrusion and pollution of vehicles. Throughout the walk, interpretation of various buildings and structures has been provided. The Fort now also houses the Military History Museum, a chapel, “backstage” amenities for cultural facilities, orientation rooms and offices for a number of NGOs. Open spaces have been repaired or replaced in order to make the place safe.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Fort St Angelo has also been totally restored together with a number of buildings including the old barrack buildings and the gunpowder magazines.

A cinema showing historical features has also been included as part of the restructuring process to give more life to the area. Through this EU-funded project, Fort St Angelo has been transformed into a main artefact and has become a unique cultural and historical experience supported by the impressive backdrop of the Grand Harbour.

An immersive experience to three historic vaults of the Knights of St John has also been created and information panels have been installed around the fort to provide insights on both the fort itself as well as the Grand Harbour.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Enhancing the tourism product in Gozo

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mproving the tourism product in Gozo with the aim of attracting more visitors all year round was considered essential under the 2007-2013 Structural Funds Programme. In fact, further to the previously mentioned restoration of the fortifications of the Gozo Citadel, a further €12 million were dedicated towards the restoration, conservation and rehabilitation of the actual Ċittadella in Victoria which has enhanced its recreational value as well as its historical and cultural experience.

The investment in fact focused on the restoration of the walled city, including the restoration of principal public buildings, rehabilitation of public spaces and related infrastructure within the Ċittadella precincts. As a result of this project, the fort is now endowed with reconstructed paths, piazza and streets, rehabilitated historical ruins, and stair and platform elevators facilitating accessibility to all. A Visitors’ Centre which has been transformed from two unused water reservoirs, has also been created. This project has promoted Ċittadella to becoming a high quality touristic attraction boasting sweeping views of the entire island of Gozo, attracting both new and repeat tourists from various walks of life.

Rabat, the medieval town of Gozo has also been revived through a project worth close to €900,000. A cultural and heritage centre has been developed to serve as a venue for exhibiting its rich historical patrimony, providing space for cultural expression and generating economic and social development within the hitherto scarcely tapped historical quarter. This investment has created a new alternative cultural tourism attraction which has strengthened Gozo’s cultural tourism niche product as well as its cultural identity.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Renewed Visitor Venues

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ondazzjoni Wirt Artna implemented a project amounting to nearly €2 million to upgrade a number of cultural sites around Malta. Funding was used in the restoration, conservation and upgrading of the Malta at War Museum in Cottonera, the Saluting Battery, the Garrison Crypt, St. Peter and St. Paul’s Counterguard, and the Old Headquarters in Valletta.

The investment carried out in the Malta at War Museum and the Saluting Battery has resulted in two high-quality cultural tourism products. The Malta at War Museum was enhanced through added floor space for improved presentation and interpretation of the Homefront Experience (civilian life) during WWII. Furthermore, the site has also benefited from proper conservation, an upgraded visitors’ centre, accessibility and staff training related to operational and business planning.

The Saluting Battery has also been enhanced through a dedicated state-of-the-art museum which also offers modern interpretation services such as a wireless guided system and an audio-visual presentation.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Archaeological Heritage Conservation Project

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he 2007-2013 EU Structural Funds programme dedicated nearly €10 million for the conservation and preservation of prime archaeological sites such as the Ġgantija and Tarxien Temples as well as St Paul’s Catacombs in Rabat. The upgrading of these sites, which form a core part of Malta’s cultural tourism product, has provided the Maltese Islands with a greater selection of prime sites to be visited by tourists, thus enhancing Malta’s value offering. Ġgantija and Tarxien Temples - two sites that are classified as UNESCO World Heritage sites – were upgraded with the necessary facilities through the provision of essential tourist facilities, incorporating all amenities and walkaways around the Temples. The Tarxien Temples were also covered with a permanent shelter providing long term protection from major causes of deterioration, whilst a Visitors’ Interpretation Centre was developed at the Ġgantija Temples, providing a welcoming orientation point to the cultural resource at the Xagħra plateau.

The St Paul’s Catacombs, which are considered to be an outstanding example of Malta’s catacombs, were thoroughly embellished, provided with all the required amenities and appropriate walkways and enhanced with the development of a Visitors’ Centre. Environmental mitigation equipment and specialised lighting systems were also installed to sustain conservation requirements.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Discovering Cultural and Religious Tourism in Gozo

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iche religious tourism in Gozo has also benefited from an investment of €300,000. Funding was invested towards Ta’ Pinu Shrine, which is considered a landmark for a number of religious pilgrimages and foreign tourists, with the aim of offering visitors a holistic and more enjoyable experience.

The project consisted of the restoration, rehabilitation and conservation of the residence of Karmni Grima in Għarb which was transformed into a museum due to its religious background.

The restoration of religious works of art by artist Joseph Briffa, who has painted twelve episodes in the life of the Blessed Virgin, was also conducted. As a result, the paintings of Joseph Briffa have now been placed for public viewing at the Museum of Fine Arts. As part of this project, a security system was installed at the Karmni Grima Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts whilst the installation of an audio-visual presentation of the life of Karmni Grima was also developed and installed at the Karmni Grima Museum.

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Time to consolidate

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s the public body responsible for the restoration works on public property and rehabilitation initiatives, around â‚Ź180,000 were invested in the human capital of the Restoration Directorate within the Ministry of Justice, Culture and Local Government.

Training was targeted to their staff complement at various levels. The scope centred on the need to strengthen the professional, technical and operational capacity of the Restoration Directorate through the training of its staff in varied but interrelated fields.

Specialised training was provided through hands-on training on laser-scanning with the aim to improve the Department’s task in capturing shapes of objects, buildings and landscapes so as to speed up and reduce data collection errors, time and money, making it an attractive alternative to traditional data collection techniques. Furthermore, training in Geographical Information System (GIS) gave the trainees the possibility to further their skills in capturing, storing, manipulating, analysing, managing, and presenting all types of spatial or geographical data in a more efficient manner through modern applications.

Vocational and professional training in restoration and documentation techniques used both locally and abroad was also delivered. This covered stone conservation, metal/ timber restoration, concrete restoration, as well as working with scaffolding and abseiling.

The training also covered other aspects including graphic design, film production, website development, media and communication. This training provided more flexibility in terms of staffing and has raised the standard of all the services being provided by the Restoration Directorate.

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Theme

Investing in the Health Sector

During the 2007-2013 programming period, the health sector benefited from â‚Ź66 million in EU-funded projects aimed at upgrading the quality of the service and the overall welfare of patients. The funding covered a myriad of projects ranging from investment in infrastructure to investment in skills and development of people in the sector. Particular attention was directed towards the enhancement of oncology-related services through the building of a new Oncology Centre. Other health services, such as improved screening services for preventive care, as well substantial investment to enhance acute health services were also targeted.

Investment in health care professionals was also given importance in order to ensure that changes resulting from new investments are embraced by those delivering the services. This called for the delivery of specific training programmes to ensure that investment in new facilities moves in tandem with investment in human capital for an enhanced holistic health care service.

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Mater Dei Hospital Oncology Centre

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48 million were invested in the development of the new Sir Anthony Mamo Oncology Centre built as an extension of Mater Dei General Hospital in Msida. The new Oncology Centre has replaced Sir Paul Boffa Hospital and is now offering advanced cancer treatment facilities in a comprehensive care setting as well as increased capacity.

Works were initiated in 2012 with the first out-patients being admitted at the end of 2014.

Apart from the new physical building itself, this project also saw considerable investment in new equipment which has replaced obsolete ones, including new MRI and radio therapy equipment. This new equipment will provide quicker and more effective diagnosis and treatment whilst also reducing unnecessary side effects.

The Centre is equipped with 113 beds, amounting to an increase of 35 beds over the former oncology centre, Sir Paul Boffa Hospital. Its functions have been split into four primary functional spaces covering in-patient areas, out-patients areas, treatment areas and support services - including physiotherapy, social work and psychology, thereby providing a wide spectrum of services to cancer patients.

This investment was carried out in response to the substantial incidence of cancer amongst the Maltese population. Research suggests that, on average, almost 1400 Maltese residents develop some type or form of cancer annually and this is expected to increase as a result of an ageing population. Therefore the improvement of oncology care services and the facilitation of their accessibility is vital in the light of Government’s commitment to improve the general quality of life of its citizens. This project is providing the possibility for patients to be treated locally and will contribute towards reducing the incidence of cancer mortality through earlier detection as well as improving outcomes of cancer management through effective treatment using safer procedures.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Comprehensive health services

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ith prevention and early diagnosis being at the core of Malta’s Health Policy, €4.3 million were invested in the development of screening and radiological modalities in health with the primary aim of improving health screening services offered in the public healthcare system. This brought about investment in technologically advanced equipment allowing early diagnosis and prompt intervention in a number of areas leading to more effective results.

Highly advanced x-ray, ultrasound, colonoscopy and mammography equipment was acquired in order to enhance early detection and installed at Mater Dei General Hospital, Birkirkara Health Centre, Floriana Health Centre and Gżira Health Centre. €9 million were dedicated towards the setting up of an Acute Medical Assessment Unit at Mater Dei Hospital with the aim of reducing waiting times. As a result of this project, two new wards accommodating 68 beds were built in order to facilitate acute admissions to hospital. It is envisaged that following 2015, the new Acute Medical Assessment Unit will experience a turnover of 4,136 patients per annum. Complementary to this, 11 ambulances with accompanying ITU facilities were purchased through EU funds.

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Around another â‚Ź3.5 million were dedicated towards the provision of training of human resources in the health sector, including an ePortfolio for Postgraduate Medical Training and a Masters Degree in Medical Physics. The ePortfolio project introduced an online educational tool for postgraduate medical training serving as a dynamic tool for professional development.

The Masters Degree in Medical Physics was introduced by the University of Malta focusing on radiology, nuclear medicine and oncology which complement the infrastructural investment at the new Oncology Centre. Another project focused on carrying out a skills gaps analysis and the delivery of the apposite training for health care professionals in order to provide a seamless institutional and community service.

An awareness raising campaign on mental health issues at the workplace was also implemented to fill the gaps in mental health policy awareness and the implementation of mental health policies at the workplace. Since previous research has confirmed that there is still considerable stigma with respect to mental health and this pervades the population as a whole, this awareness campaign aimed to rectify the general misinformation.

Given the very scarce communications about mental health in the media, through this project, the Richmond Foundation aimed at improving the public perception towards mental health issues so that the general public can have a positive outlook and attitude towards mental health. This campaign was mostly based on the creation of the following:

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a) Setting-up of informtation across Malta and Gozo; b) Production and airing of TV and radio commercials; c) Publication of information leaflets

With a budget of circa €67,000, the Richmond Foundation was responsible for this project which focused on disseminating information about mental health at the work place, amongst enterprises and the general public. Complementing the information campaign, managers were provided training to equip them with the necessary tools to increase their knowledge on mental health problems in the workplace. Training was thus provided to workers in leading positions with the aim of having participants equipped with all relevant information so that they can assist their staff. The main topics addressed included: a) Mental wellbeing in the workplace b) Stress and employment c) The costs of stress and mental health d) Stress management e) Prevention and Promotion f) Health and safety regulations g) Policies for a healthy workplace

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Theme

Placing Malta on the Research Map

The development of Research, Science and Technology knowledge is a goal that has been actively addressed during the 2007 – 2013 programming period. The Europe 2020 strategy places R&I at the forefront of Europe’s efforts to become a smart, sustainable and inclusive economy which delivers high levels of employment, productivity and social cohesion.

Through the investments made during this programming period, R & I infrastructure has been supported together with measures to strengthen the link between academia and industry. In this respect, investment was directed towards the development of the infrastructure required for the provision of high quality research and the development of the skills and competences required to address the needs of key sectors of the Maltese economy such as pharmaceuticals, ICT and electronics.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

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Setting up a National Interactive Science Centre (NISC)

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t is generally acknowledged that it is only through having a larger science, technology, research and innovation workforce that the country can grow into one that is technically knowledgebased with high value-added technical economic activity. Over the years, Government has been investing, also through the European Regional Development Fund, in the creation of the physical infrastructure (such as labs) necessary to provide the required environment for R&D to take place. This infrastructure must be complemented by a workforce possessing the necessary skills to make full use of it.

In a country like Malta, where R&D has a limited historical tradition, the 2007-2013 EU Structural Funds Programme placed particular attention on attracting young people to the right education streams. Experience across the EU has shown that children must be enthused and nurtured towards Science and Technology subjects from a very early age to eventually proceed towards Science and Technology careers. This is an important pre-condition to create and sustain the necessary talented personnel.

It is with this in mind that nearly â‚Ź14 million have been invested towards a National Interactive Science Centre (NISC) which is aimed at attracting students from a very early age to science.

The NISC, which is situated in Bighi, provides attractive and intriguing experiences, through which science will be made relevant to the visitors and their everyday lives, as well as making it accessible to all. The scope of the experiences provided is to dispel cultural perceptions that science-related subjects are either too difficult, boring or not relevant, as well as promote the idea that science is indeed ‘cool’. Students and the public are now being provided with the opportunity to interact in a hands-on manner with the scientific world around them which will ultimately result in more informed choices, a more engaged public (especially parents/guardians) and an increased take-up of science subjects at Secondary Level, which in turn should result in more students embarking on science-related careers.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

It is envisaged that an average of 27,000 students will visit the centre annually whilst a number of shows, workshops and outreach activities will take place on an annual basis. All this will be complemented by permanent exhibitions which will be updated on a regular basis as well as through the provision of a real live lab environment.

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Developing a modern ICT Faculty Building

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CT will continue to be one of the most important enablers for a better quality of life as well as for the creation of a dynamic economy. This is of even greater relevance for Malta since the most important sectors of the economy, such as financial services, on-line gaming, pharmaceuticals and tourism, make extensive use of ICT to develop and provide their products and services. It is also the case with emerging sectors such as aviation and the development of digital games. ICT will also increase in importance in essential areas such as the provision of health services and the provision of government services.

As is the case with science and technology, it is therefore critical that the right environment for youths is created enabling them to undertake studies and develop their skills in the area of ICT. Until recently, ICT students did not have a faculty premises of their own and were thus rather constrained in furthering their studies. This situation has however changed dramatically with the allocation of some 7,000 sqm within the University perimeter towards a new state-of-the-art faculty building. This building, which will cater for the needs of ICT university students for the next 30 years, was built at a cost of â‚Ź14.4 million.

This new faculty building consists of lecture rooms with flexible set-up possibilities, research labs and equipment, offices and meeting areas. Furthermore, considerable investment has been made in photovoltaic panels which will provide an estimated 10% of the energy needs of the building itself.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Investing further in our human capital

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onsiderable investment has continued to take place in the facilities of the University of Malta. The University is recognised as being the crucial link between academia and industry and it is therefore essential that there is continued investment in those faculties and departments that are explicitly linked to some of the key industries in Malta such as electronics and pharmaceuticals.

The 2007 – 2013 period has seen investment taking place in many University departments falling under the Faculties of Engineering, Science and ICT for a total amount of €13.5 million.

Among these, an investment of €0.8 million was made in the Department of Electronic Systems Engineering whereby the department was provided with a complete modern electronic prototyping facility. This very modern system of electronic design and prototyping will enable the Department to attract more students to follow the Bachelor’s course in Electrical and Electronic Engineering and therefore be introduced to electronic design and prototyping. It will also aid in keeping lecturers upto-date with the latest technology, provide students with more research opportunities as well as create more possibilities for collaboration with other local and European research institutes.

Furthermore, an investment of €0.5 million was made in the Department of Micro and Nanoelectronics whereby a MEMS

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(Micro-Electrical-Mechanical Systems) characterisation facility was set up. This investment will enhance University’s potential in Research and Design in the specialised area of MEMS design.

The development of Smart Microsystems is an important area of research and innovation in various fields ranging, among others, from biomedical, automotive, communications, environment, gaming and space applications. This entails the development of MEMS and the corresponding design of micro and nanoelectronic application specific integrated circuits (ASICs). The equipment purchased through this investment has provided the University with the opportunity to expand its infrastructure to respond to the fast growing industry of MEMS and provide students with state-of-the-art equipment, which would allow them to test their MEMS designs and also use this equipment to improve on future designs. This is expected to provide graduates for key companies in Malta already active in this field.

The Department of Chemistry benefitted from a further investment of â‚Ź0.5 million towards research facilities aimed specifically at enhancing the skills of chemistry students.

One of the main industries in Malta is the pharmaceutical industry which has seen significant growth over the years. The implementation of this project therefore created a more explicit link with industry. It is considered to be essential for providing well-trained graduates for local industry, as well as strengthening R&D capabilities of Maltese pharmaceutical/biotech companies through collaborative research with the Department.

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Theme

Creating a Stronger Enterprise Infrastructure

Malta has no natural resources it can make use of to build a sustainable economy. This factor, as well as the size and geographical position of the country, have meant that the country has had to develop very specific niche markets within which it could excel and create economic wealth.

A number of specialised areas such as financial services, maritime services, pharmaceuticals and ICT have been developed over the years, each requiring very specific supporting structures to be able to grow. In addition to this, new niche markets must continue to be developed to ensure a continued sustainable growth of the Maltese economy. It is with this in mind that key projects such as the ones described here have been undertaken over the past seven years.

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Development of a maintenance and repair facility for small aircraft

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alta’s economic success has always been built on the successful early development of niche markets which have brought new investment and created sustainable jobs.

One such niche is the aviation sector whereby Malta is creating the necessary infrastructure for the registration and the maintenance of small aircraft. The strategic positioning of Malta as a geographical and cultural crossroad between Europe, Africa and the Middle East, is one of the main reasons why Malta can act as the ideal hub for the aviation industry within the region.

An important link in the development of this sector is the creation of a fully-fledged maintenance and repair facility which has been developed within the current boundaries of the Safi Aviation Park. This project, which has a total cost of â‚Ź2.8 million, consists of the construction of new taxiways for small aircraft and three hangars each covering 1200m2 with an overall height of 12metres.

The creation of readily available hangar space at the Safi Aviation Park will make Malta more attractive to foreign investors looking to set up maintenance and repair facilities for their aircraft. This in turn is expected to result in more private investment being put into the sector and the creation of additional high value added jobs.

This project has also taken environmental considerations into account, with the hangars being built entirely of steel and thus fully recyclable. It will also include four water reservoirs for the storage of water collected from the roofs and aprons of the hangars themselves.

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Development of a Digital Hub

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n line with the advancement of a modern society, ICT continues to play an essential part in providing high-tech products and services which contribute towards the socio-economic development of Malta. To further strengthen what has so far been a success story, it is clear that the right environment needs to be created to enable the development of new ideas and technologies. There is also a need to strengthen the links between academic research and industry.

This is also in line with the Digital Games strategy that was launched in Malta in 2012. One of the factors hindering the full development of this sector has been the fact that the research and commercial set-ups active in the area are dispersed across the country, thus preventing the creation of synergies.

With this firmly in mind, a Digital Hub costing approximately â‚Ź5 million was developed to create the necessary facilities for the establishment of synergic and joint actions for enterprises in the creative sectors, as well as creating the environment and structure for the training and mentoring of new enterprises which are or wish to be active in the creative sectors. The Hub which covers a physical area of 2100m2 provides various facilities such as communal areas designed to facilitate interaction, audio-visual equipment as well as hot-desking possibilities, thus allowing for flexible work arrangements. Furthermore, energy efficiency features are being incorporated in all offices, with the use of natural light and natural cooling being prominently used.

Once completed, this project is expected to contribute towards the housing of a minimum of 10 companies operating along the value-chain of the creative industry, directly employing an estimated 120 people along with other expected spin-offs resulting from this activity.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Setting up a Life Sciences Centre

T

he research and development of cutting edge technologies and remedies will continue to make Malta a dynamic place which attracts investment in very specific and specialised areas.

Malta has a successful track record in the development of various services and products in the areas of healthcare and life sciences such as, for example, in the field of medical devices, generics and private healthcare.

Malta’s research and development strategy is aimed at attracting companies and research bodies in the areas of oncology, cardiovascular disease, infectious diseases as well as rare and orphan diseases.

The development of a considerable physical space (11,000 sqm) set up with modern facilities totally dedicated to advanced research and development in the Life Sciences field is expected to provide an important platform for a significant leap ahead in R&D in Malta. This will complement the considerable investment made in the country over the past decade which has resulted in a good number of international firms setting up base in Malta most of which have continued to invest and expand over and above their initial investment.

The Life Sciences Centre, which cost an estimated â‚Ź20 million, will provide world class facilities such as four state-ofthe-art laboratories, modern offices and lecture theatres as well as meeting facilities all within a park environment aimed at stimulating discussion, ideas, research and experimentation.

The Life Sciences Centre, which is situated right next to key facilities such as the general hospital, the oncology centre and the University of Malta, is expected to be the home of some 40 enterprises with another 11 enterprises directly involved in networking and collaboration initiatives.

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Upgrade and embellishment of Industrial Estates

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n the overall effort to develop a modern economy there is no doubt that for this to happen, industry based in Malta must be in a position to work from sites which provide all the required facilities and environment which is suitable to the operation of modern enterprises.

Since joining the European Union in 2004, the country has been investing considerable resources in the modernisation of industrial parks, many of which had seen very little investment in previous decades. During the first programming period of EU Structural Funds for Malta, work had already taken place in the Čal Far and Bulebel areas. These industrial estates have, during the 2007-2013 period, seen additional work being done with the aim of further enhancing the environment of both industrial sites. In addition to these two sites, work has taken place in three more industrial parks – Kordin, Mosta Technopark, and Xewkija in Gozo.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

The total cost of the works carried out in all 5 industrial parks amounted to almost €15 million with a range of basic infrastructure such as roads, and facilities such as fire hydrant systems, being put in place. Facilities for the well-being of the people who work within the industrial parks were also installed with a recreational area being developed in Ħal Far and childcare facilities in the Mosta Technopark and Xewkija industrial park.

Of particular note is the work done in the Xewkija industrial park in Gozo. In view of the known difficulties faced when attracting investment to Gozo, this industrial estate has been developed with extensive use of energy-efficient systems and materials as well as other additional features such as solar-panel powered street lighting and water catchment infrastructure. This has been done to make it more attractive for firms (in terms of costs) to locate in Gozo.

In terms of direct benefits resulting from the works and improvements done within the five key industrial estates, a minimum of twenty new companies and/or expansions are expected to take place within the same industrial estates with a net additional employment of at least 200 people expected to take place.

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Theme

Enhancing the Education Experience

Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

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With a total financing of €125 million from the European Structural Funds, investment in the education sector was considered to be a key priority under the 2007-2013 EU Structural Funds Programmes.

Investment was directed both from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the European Social Fund (ESF), thus covering both the infrastructural and the human capital dimensions that lie within this sector.

Investment in educational infrastructure was focused towards providing a solid platform for Malta’s ambition to increase the level of participation in education at post-secondary and tertiary levels.

A considerable investment was made in infrastructural expansions, upgrades and other capital investments in the main post-secondary and tertiary education institutions in Malta, including investment at the Malta College for Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST), the University of Malta and the University Junior College. Other investment aimed at enhancing the quality of the educational experience through eEducational services was carried out at all levels, including compulsory schooling, in order to minimise student drop outs whilst moving along the educational ladder.

Investment in the human resources in the educational sector was carried out with the aim of increasing student participation at all levels of education. This was considered to be one of the main pillars of the Operational Programme funded by the European Social Fund (ESF). Specific projects focusing on improving students’ skills and the development of programmes and curricula were supported. Financing was directed towards projects aimed at improving the quality of education for all as well as ensuring that investment in education in terms of programmes and curricula yields positive results in terms of economic growth.

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Development of Applied Science and Business and Commerce Institute at MCAST

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he 2007-2013 Structural Funds programme injected €18.9 million in MCAST to further develop the new campus project at Corradino. The funds were allocated for the construction of state-of-the-art buildings housing the Institute of Applied Science, the Institute of Business and Commerce and the Student House. Integral to this project was the equipping of these two institutes and the Institute of Information and Communication Technologies with modern teaching resources and equipment, as well as the building of a common underlying car park.

This investment was carried out in support of the national objective of increasing the number of students pursuing their studies following post-secondary education.

This enhanced educational infrastructure aims to increase the attractiveness of postsecondary vocational education whilst the increased space will enable MCAST to provide more courses in the science and finance sectors - considered high-value sectors in terms of Malta’s competitiveness. The setting up of computer laboratories and ancillary facilities for the Institute of Information and Communication will also contribute towards an increase in MCAST’s overall capacity to deliver ICT courses as well as improve the quality of facilities available to ICT students.

As a result of this investment, MCAST is now in a position to offer a better educational experience with an ever rising number of students contributing towards an increasing participation rate in higher levels of education across the country. In fact, it is envisaged that MCAST will experience a more than 25% increase in the student population of the Applied Science and Business and Commerce Institutes and, most importantly, a 20% increase in the number of students taking up Science and Technology related subjects as their main area of study.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

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Investment in eEducational Services

A

s part of the project contributing towards enhancing eGovernment services, circa €9 million were invested in the state school system with the aim of increasing the accessibility of education services through electronic means. As a result of this project, schools now have unprecedented access to an eLearning solution, so that in conjunction with the use of interactive whiteboards, they can be in a position to deliver education eServices to students, parents, teachers and administrators.

This has created a remarkable opportunity for students, since primary and secondary education have become more accessible by extending learning beyond the classroom.

Technology has made education available electronically and has therefore brought it closer to students and parents by making it available anytime and anywhere. This investment was specifically directed towards the development of an eLearning platform in schools which has been made available to approximately 35,000 students across circa 100 schools. This project is expected to revolutionise the educational system in Malta.

Students can now access an online repository of learning materials, store any school related work, create a portfolio, manage homework/assignments, communicate with teachers and other students, and access school-related news.

A total of 4,500 teachers have also started using the eLearning Solution. This has given them the possibility to monitor closely their students’ learning progress and are therefore in a better position to tailor education around their students’ needs. Teachers can also access teaching resources, manage timetables, distribute homework/assignments online and can also share and exchange knowledge with other teachers locally and abroad, thus contributing towards their own professional development.

Parents have also been given a more active role in the development of their children’s education by giving them unprecedented access to their children’s day-to-day activities and progress. This gives parents the opportunity to monitor their children’s learning progress as well as to participate in their scholastic attainments.

The project was also complemented with the installation of around 1,800 interactive whiteboards and the provision of other digital tools for teachers which enables them to provide a better and more personalised service to students. This project has managed to modernise education holistically, and adapt it to the way students learn in today’s digital era, by making learning more personalised and collaborative. In addition, it has further consolidated Government‘s mission to provide eServices across a myriad of sectors.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

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Construction and Equipping of University Computing Services Centre Building

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early €8 million of Malta’s Structural Funds programme were allocated to the University of Malta to build and equip its University IT Services which is the hub providing IT facilities, learning spaces, data centres and related infrastructure servicing all the University.

As a result of this project, the building of the University IT Services was upgraded in order to deliver high-end IT services and inclusive learning. Its footprint has expanded exponentially from 15 to 100 square metres allowing the University to increase the number of physical servers to keep up with the growth in demand for IT Services. The space has now provided the possibility to have all University servers in one location rather than being dispersed across the numerous faculties thereby enabling the more efficient use of resources.

IT facilities, including online electronic services, and learning spaces covering computer laboratories, training rooms and videoconferencing facilities were also integrated within the building. In fact, the building now houses four computer laboratories and training rooms and a videoconferencing facility, providing more than 200 students the opportunity to use the services concurrently, thereby lifting the 8-hour weekly time quota which had to be in place due to acute space limitations. The videoconferencing facility has a capacity to host 50 students and the computer labs have a capacity to host 25 students each.

This investment has also contributed towards aiding e-learning initiatives such as ‘Lectures on Demand’ facilities. It also provides for an area hosting high-tech presentation equipment in order to create an interactive environment. To ensure that the University IT services are composed of a robust infrastructure, the financing also contributed towards adequate backup facilities complete with sufficient resilience, physical security and access control.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Junior College Building Extension

Improving education and skills

F

A

unding was also targeted towards improving the infrastructural capacity of the University Junior College which is the main post-secondary institution feeding students into tertiary education. More than €1 million was invested in building two extra floors above the administration and seminar area to bring it in line with the rest of the blocks.

The works were completed in 2012.

Thanks to this project the Junior College can now provide its students with an improved educational experience through the realisation of eight large lecture rooms and 20 tutorial rooms, all equipped with state-of-the-art equipment. Services such as four bathrooms, two utility rooms and two elevators facilitating accessibility to students with special needs were also integrated in this development.

The project has provided extra space at the Junior College to take more students in classes which are less dense and which are equipped with modern teaching aids. As a result, students are now also benefitting from a higher ratio of lecturers to students.

Consequently, this investment is directly contributing towards Government’s aim to have more students pursuing their studies beyond compulsory schooling and potentially reaching tertiary education levels.

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number of projects funded through the European Social Fund (ESF) were developed with the aim of improving education and skills at the different levels of the education cycle. Tertiary education at Masters Level has been made more accessible through the provision of the Master IT scholarship scheme.

With an allocation close to €5 million, circa 650 participants, of which 365 were females, received financial assistance to be able to pursue post graduate courses at Masters Level in a number of priority areas in line with the vision laid out in the document “Malta’s Vision 2015 and Beyond”.

New course programmes at tertiary level were also developed to meet the needs of the local economy. In fact, more than €1.25 million were allocated to the University of Malta for the creation of a Knowledge Transfer Framework and Technology Entrepreneurship Training Programme. Through this project an intellectual property and knowledge transfer framework office was set up at the University of Malta in order to improve the university-industry collaborations and to offer support services to start-ups in S&T. Training was also given to UoM and partner staff, including MCST, to be able to offer the necessary services in relation to business incubation, intellectual property and knowledge transfer services. Furthermore training and knowledge dissemination in intellectual property and knowledge transfer was given through a series of seminars in order to raise awareness, disseminate knowledge and promote networking amongst all stakeholders involved. Researchers, students, business representatives, entrepreneurs, and potential investors were thus involved to support an effective institutional rapport between education and industry

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Complementary to this, an intensive training programme in knowledge-based entrepreneurship at Masters Level was introduced and successfully delivered to 53 students, 66% of whom were females.,. This course was offered both through parttime formal learning and distance learning with the aim to reinforce the students’ entrepreneurial skills and encourage start-ups. €4.4 million were allocated to make Vocational Education Training more relevant and attractive with the aim to increase participation of young people and adults in vocational education. This involved the redesigning of circa 70 existing courses so as to make them more relevant to the current economic needs as well as the introduction of circa 30 new courses to increase the range of courses offered at MCAST. The education system needs continuous renewal in order to remain relevant to current economic developments. As part of this renewal, more than €4 million were dedicated towards the development of a Learning Outcomes Framework which is considered a key component of the Maltese Educational System as set out in the National Curriculum Framework (NCF). The LOF will serve as national benchmarks of excellence for all schools providing schools, teachers, parents, students, and other stakeholders with an understanding of what children and young people know and are able to do during each of the three cycles (the early years, the junior years and the secondary years) and what they need to achieve by the end of compulsory education. Teachers were provided with a training programme to learn about this new approach.

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Theme

Lifelong Learning and Employment

Approximately €29 million was directed towards several lifelong learning training programmes implemented by a number of public and voluntary organisations to support Malta’s ever-changing economy and supply it with a workforce that has the necessary skills and competences to take up the challenges offered by the labour market.

It must be highlighted that lifelong learning is also addressed as a horizontal priority throughout other various initiatives financed under the European Social Fund.

Supporting the employability of disadvantaged groups, including individuals with low skills was another key priority of the European Social Fund in Malta. Employability programmes were devised and implemented to facilitate labour market integration and the retention of persons who are facing challenges by boosting their skills and competences to thrive in the labour market.

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Lifelong Learning

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CAST was one of the primary public organisations that implemented a number of ESF projects during the 20072013 programme. One such project specifically focused on increasing the accessibility, flexibility and innovation of the MCAST lifelong learning course. In fact, €7.2 million were invested to make the course offered more attractive and accessible through an innovative and flexible system which incorporated blended learning and a mixture of face-to-face classroom lessons with a distance learning environment where the study material is made available online.

Furthermore this system introduced two new innovative concepts in the local education scenario: Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) and the Electronic Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (eAPEL). People who to-date have carried out courses which are not MQF-rated or preferred to focus their careers on hands-on experience instead of the academic, will have the opportunity to create their own personal profile on this system, inserting the educational certificates they have in hand, as well as their work experience. Based on the information submitted, the system along with a number of experts will accredit their current qualifications and work experience in line with the learning outcomes of specific modules. Furthermore the system provides recommendations to the user on which courses would be best suited to him/her depending on the assessment generated. The user will have the opportunity to apply with MCAST and undergo courses without having to attend classes for those modules where the system has already identified that the user has achieved the relevant learning outcome.

In order to implement the above, MCAST has undergone the reformulation of a number of full-time courses as well as short courses to ensure suitability for blended learning, the assessment of learners’ prior learning and work experience. The sectors affected by this reformulation are ICT, Creative Industries, Engineering, Health, Green Economy and Agriculture, among others. These courses together with the APL and eAPEL will be launched in the 2016/2017 scholastic year.

The Malta Film Commission in partnership with Film London also implemented a Lifelong Learning project worth €0.9 million contributing towards the restructuring of the cultural and creative industry. The project offered five film-making teams an opportunity to benefit from an intensive training programme focusing on production funding, mentoring, professional development and support to successfully translate a script into a film. Marketing and sales of films were also focused upon.

One of the participating teams was eventually awarded a grant of €200,000 to develop a full length film whilst engaging with expert mentors and instructors, in that way directly benefiting from hands-on training.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

In addition, the project also focused on delivering certified training programmes contributing towards increasing employment opportunities in the film-servicing industry. 654 participants, out of which 381 were male and 270 female, participated in the courses which provided a solid foundation for those who wish to work professionally in the film industry, including an introduction to film production processes, terminology, safety and environmental consciousness as well as wooden set design, set decoration and physical special effects.

25% of the participants were aged between 15 to 24, 65% of the participants were aged between 25 to 54, 10% were aged between 54 to 64, and 1% was aged 64 and over.

Another ESF project focusing on lifelong learning was implemented by the Malta Communications Authority. The project, entitled NETWORKED, had a budget of nearly €0.5 million and focused on boosting ICT competences for better employability and workforce adaptability. It targeted 5,500 IT illiterate individuals aged 25 to 64 with the aim of helping them appreciate the world of ICT, providing an insight as to how technology can positively impact their lives and contribute to better employment possibilities and productivity. To complement the drive to address IT illiteracy, a national awareness campaign, a basic training programme, as well as the creation of a mobile classroom for the provision of IT training in different venues were also implemented through this project. A total of 4,346 participants, out of which 3,334 were female and 1,012 male, participated in the courses: 42.4% were aged between 25 and 54, 50.3% were aged between 55 and 64, and another 7.3% were from other age brackets.

Enhancing Employability through employment schemes and employability programmes

A

number of projects funded through the European Social Fund were implemented to enhance the employability of various people who are facing difficulties in accessing the labour market as well as retaining long term employment. Different measures were implemented to address the need of the different target groups that the Programme aims to support. Specific support was provided to those furthest away from the labour market and the youth.

Employment Aid Programme

€

14 million from the European Social Fund Operational Programme were allocated to this programme to facilitate access to employment for individuals who are furthest away from the labour market. Financial assistance was provided to around 1,100 employers to give an employment opportunity to disadvantaged people and persons with disability. In the case of disadvantaged people, employers received a substantial subsidy amounting to 50% of the wage cost for a period of 6 to 12 months, depending on the target group. In the case of persons with disability, the subsidy reached 75% for the first year and then 60% for the second and third year.

This scheme has given circa 2,800 individuals the opportunity to undertake a work experience. It has therefore upgraded their skills, resulting in enhanced employment prospects of individuals who face particular challenges to integrate into the labour market.

This investment has contributed directly towards the prevention of social exclusion and marginalisation of these individuals as well as towards increasing the country’s labour supply. Out of the total number of participants, 1,291 were females, representing 46% of the direct beneficiaries of the scheme. Furthermore, it is worth noting that 88 of the participants were persons with disability.

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Employability Programmes

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n 2008, nearly €5 million were allocated to the Employment and Training Corporation (ETC) for the implementation of an Employability Programme covering a myriad of training initiatives. This programme, which lasted till 2015, supported nearly 40,000 individuals aiming to upgrade their knowledge and skills, in order to facilitate their labour market integration and retention as well as improve their employment prospects.

Out of these almost 40,000 individuals, 34% were females and 28% were youths between 15-24 years old.

The training programmes consisted of basic skills, work orientation, retraining programmes, traineeships, a training subsidy scheme for general courses as well as academic ones and a skills assessment system. Basic skills programmes were provided in order to aid individuals to take on further learning opportunities and hence become employable.

Re-training programmes and traineeships (including a combination of on-the-job and off-thejob training) were primarily organised in the vocational areas for which there was a labour market demand and were targeted at those with low qualifications. A training subsidy scheme to financially support participants to attend general courses not offered by ETC, as well as academic courses at MQF Level 5 to 7 in the financial and digital media sectors which are not offered by any local accredited training institution

and accreditation of prior learning were also carried out as activities of this project. All these initiatives were aimed at addressing the various needs that ETC clients face in the labour market in order to enhance their employability, leading to sustainable employment.

Another project which focuses on employability was initiated in 2012.

Circa €2.8 million were allocated to ETC for the delivery of a number of short courses supporting 8,500 trainees to obtain an accredited qualification between MQF Levels 1 and 4. Out of these 4,080 were females, representing 48 % of the total number of participants. 23% of the total number of participants were young people aged 16-24 years. In addition, another 300 trainees obtained a financial subsidy to participate in a training course of their choice that leads to an accredited qualification. Between 1 and 7. 64% of the participants benefitting from this scheme were females and 28% were young people between 16 and 24 years of age. Through this project, several courses were accredited, thus creating an opportunity for participants to benefit from recognised and comparable learning. The skills acquired through this project also contributed towards the achievement of sustainable employment for those facing labour market challenges whilst the project also contributed towards the reduction of labour skills shortages.

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Youth Guarantee Scheme

A

Youth Guarantee Scheme with a value of €3 million was initiated in the last quarter of 2013 with the aim of giving an opportunity to young people under the age of 25 who are not in employment, education or training (NEETs) to either access the labour market or access education. Interventions on the ground focused on training, job exposure and personalised assistance. An estimate of 600 youths applied for support through this scheme.

Profiling, youth workers support services, work exposure scheme and a traineeship scheme leading to an accredited qualification were provided as an integral part of the project. The identification of 15 to 16-year-olds not having any intention to sit for the Secondary Education Certificate examinations was carried out in order to give them specific support, including alternative pathways.

Free revision classes for those who failed, achieved low grades or missed Secondary Education Certificate examinations as well as remedial classes for MCAST students failing examinations at levels 1 and 2 were also delivered as part of this project.

The project made available a number of opportunities to a group of youths that are considered to be most at risk of detachment from education and from the labour market, and consequently at risk of poverty and social exclusion.

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Theme

Upgrading Malta’s waste management infrastructure

Around €125 million of EU funding were allocated towards waste management related interventions, amounting to nearly 45% of the Cohesion Fund allocation for Malta. Waste management is a challenge because of the potential negative impact on the environment. The funds allocated were used for major investments with the aim of upgrading the country’s waste management infrastructure.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Rehabilitation and Restoration of Closed Landfills

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s a result of past inadequate waste management approaches, €5.6 million were directed towards investment that can address the environmental impact of uncontrolled landfilling in Malta and Gozo. The aim was to give back 370,000 square metres of land to the public domain for recreational purposes through the rehabilitation of three closed landfills, namely the Magħtab and Marsascala landfills in Malta and the Qortin landfill in Gozo.

Around 50% of this investment was directed towards the Marsascala landfill which has now been transformed into a family park – The Sant’Antnin Family Park – spreading over 37,942 square metres of land. The Marsascala landfill had not been in operation since 1979 and had since become an eyesore for locals and tourists alike. Considering the age of the landfill, the derelict land was the first of the three landfills to be transformed into a recreational area. The Family Park was inaugurated in February 2013 and is open daily to the public.

The remaining 50% of the allocation was directed towards the rehabilitation and restoration of the Magħtab and the Qortin Landfills for eventual public use. The condition of these two landfills was more delicate because these sites only occurred in 2004 as a result of Malta’s accession to the EU. These sites were not considered compliant with EU legislation in view of their potential impacts on human health and the environment mainly due to combustion of waste, landfill gas production and emissions of liquid substances that are environmental harmful.

The investment was directed to minimise these negative effects and limit health and environmental hazards whilst at the same time improving the visual impact through appropriate landscaping.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Mechanical & Biological Treatment Plant

A

substantial investment of around €30 million was allocated from the EU Structural Funds Programme towards the setting up of a new Mechanical and Biological Treatment Plant (MBT Plant) in the North of Malta with the aim of reducing the amount of waste going to landfills. The first step to reduce landfilling was achieved through the construction of the Sant’Antnin Recycling Plant in Marsascala with the assistance of the 2004-2006 Cohesion Funds allocation to Malta. Sant’Antnin is currently operational and handles a maximum of circa 30% of the annual total municipal solid waste generated.

The new MBT Plant which is situated within the Magħtab Environmental Complex aims to treat and process the remaining 70% of the municipal solid waste. Operations at this plant are expected to start in 2016.

Total municipal solid waste in Malta amounts to circa 240,000 tonnes per year, which is produced by households, industry and commerce including tourism. The Malta-North Plant will support the country’s efforts to reduce the country’s high dependency on landfills by increasing recycling and reducing landfilling. Furthermore, food and other organic waste, once treated, can also be used for landscaping or similar uses. It is interesting to note that the process to treat waste generates clean energy which can be fed into the national grid.

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Other interventions aiming at reducing landfilling

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ther investments in the waste sector include a €3 million project intended to extend waste separation and collection services in the Maltese Islands through the setting up of a new civic amenity site at Ta’ Qali with the aim of achieving higher capture rates. Through this investment, the new site has started to accept around 4,700 tonnes of waste per annum. In addition, the site is serving to treat approximately 1,300 tonnes of glass annually and compact circa 8,500 tonnes of waste collected at the various civic amenities on a yearly basis.

Furthermore, in Gozo, EU funds were invested in an €8 million Treatment and Transfer Facility set up to reduce material directed to landfill and reduce the nuisances of waste being transported from Gozo to Malta for treatment and disposal. Similar to the Malta North plant, this project will also cater for the sorting and bailing of dry recyclables coming from the adjacent Bring-In site and from the Grey Bag Scheme.

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Theme

Risk Prevention and Flood Relief

National Flood Relief Project Over the years, weather patterns in Malta have become characterised by shorter but more intense rainfall. Coupled with increased urbanization, this has resulted in flash flooding taking place in a number of areas across the island which often results in traffic congestion and sometimes loss of property. With an investment of more than €43 million, this phenomenon has been addressed through a storm water project which was implemented in the worst hit areas across Malta.

The project was initiated in 2013 and will be completed by the end of 2015. Throughout this period, works improving the storm water infrastructural shortcomings were carried out primarily in the form of development of underground tunnels, canals and bridges to facilitate water flows.

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The project focused on four catchment areas, covering the nine worst hit localities of Msida, Birkirkara, Balzan, Gżira, Qormi, Marsa, Żebbuġ, Marsascala and Żabbar. These also represent the areas where the majority of damages occurred in the last major storm that hit the Maltese Islands in September 2003.

More recently, these areas have also become exposed to more frequent and intense flash floods leading to greater health hazard, damage to private property and public infrastructure.

More than 17,000 people and more than 1,000 commercial entities will benefit directly from this investment which will mitigate against rising water levels during periods of relatively intense rainfall. The positive effects are also bound to spread across the whole country since the interventions are designed to address flooding problems in a holistic way. This project will therefore bring about a turning point in storm water management.

It is anticipated that as a result of this investment, the storm water management system will alleviate flash-flooding as the developed system will provide better preparedness for storm occurrences and will mitigate against one of the most likely impacts of climate change.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Water collection resulting from storms has also been incorporated within this project with a soakaway reservoir being constructed as an integral component. This was built in Gżira at the end of Wied Għollieqa and will percolate water to the aquifer.

Is estimated that around 300,000 cubic metres per year can be infiltrated through this reservoir. This reservoir will also give the opportunity to test the quality of the water collected from the areas so as to determine any possible treatments required and re-use options.

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Theme

Optimising Transport Links

Optimising the connectivity of the Maltese Islands, both domestically and internationally, was one of the primary specific development objectives of Malta’s EU Structural Funds Programme for 2007-2013. In this light, a number of upgrades through the TEN-T road infrastructure, arterial roads and maritime ports were upgraded to achieve an improved and reliable journey time. This is a critical factor for economic development, as well as for an improved quality of life for Maltese citizens. The projects undertaken have in fact directly contributed to the realisation of transport infrastructure in order to meet both the current, and future, economic and social needs of the country.

The investment undertaken has achieved strategic connectivity between the Islands’ main towns, both laterally and vertically, with the aim to boost productivity and competitiveness. Given Malta’s high dependency on maritime activities, investments in ports were also carried out to be able to keep up with increasing current and future shipping activities as well as to mitigate against Gozo’s double insularity. The upgrading of roads and ports across the Maltese Islands has improved connectivity and road safety, and this has enhanced user experience, therefore contributing also towards the improvement of the overall tourism product that Malta and Gozo offer.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

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Improvement of the TEN-T Road Infrastructure

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early €90 million from the Cohesion Fund have been invested towards the improvement of the Trans-European Network – Transport (TEN-T) road infrastructure. Two major projects, consisting of two phases, were implemented throughout the 2007-2013 EU Funds Programme. These contributed towards the European Union objective to complete the TEN-T road network by 2020, aiming to secure the free movement of passengers and goods in the EU. Phase 1 of this investment focused on the reconstruction and upgrading of five sections of the TEN-T road network in Malta and another one in Gozo. The five sections in Malta consisted of arterial routes through Luqa, Floriana, Marsa, and Mellieħa.

The one in Gozo targeted the Victoria arterial route. Through this investment, the Council of Europe and Garibaldi Avenues in Luqa were reconstructed and upgraded, a new junction was reconstructed at Avenue December 13th, whilst the Sea Passenger Terminal access road from Floriana to Marsa was also upgraded to improve access and connectivity between the Grand Harbour and the road network.

In Mellieħa, the Marfa Road was reconstructed and widened, together with part of the Mellieħa by-pass to facilitate transport movement between Malta and Gozo. Investment in the Mellieha by-pass was also undertaken to facilitate access to Għadira Bay, it being the largest sandy beach on the Maltese islands and highly frequented throughout the summer months. Għajnsielem Road leading to Victoria was also rebuilt and upgraded to facilitate the connection between the Mġarr Harbour and Victoria in Gozo.

Where appropriate, roundabout junctions were reconstructed or introduced, together with dual carriage ways.

Phase 2 resulted in the rebuilding and upgrading of the Coast Road, covering a stretch of 7.3 km of road. The investment aimed to increase the width of the road and to address a number of shortcomings with respect to road alignments which were impinging on road safety. The road was upgraded to two-lane dual carriage way with physical separation between traffic travelling in opposing directions.

Continuous footpaths along the Coast Road were created and priority junctions with secondary roads, primarily the Kennedy Grove junction, were also upgraded. A rainwater system and a new lighting system were installed, whilst pertinent bus stops were developed to ensure that traffic flow is not affected.

This investment in the TEN-T road infrastructure aims to contribute towards the experience of free flowing traffic with significantly less bottlenecks along these routes.

These bottlenecks were translating into loss of productive working time which was negatively impacting on economic development and sustainable development. It is envisaged that the reconstruction of the new arterial roads will result in reduced journey time, an essential step towards competitiveness and improved quality of life.

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The Ċirkewwa Terminal - upgrading inter-island transport facilities

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he upgrading of the inter-island transport facilities were considered critical to enhance accessibility, aiding economic activity and development in Gozo. In this regard, more than €10 million were invested in the Ċirkewwa Terminal to reduce congestion and Gozo’s insularity, thereby directly contributing towards the flourishing of business potential in Gozo. The new terminal has enhanced the travel experience through reduced travel time and enhanced safety and comfort, also when travelling in adverse weather conditions.

The investment comprised of the construction of a passenger-handling building with gangway connections to the ferries for foot passengers which has separated the embarkation and disembarkation of passengers from vehicles. A vehicular marshalling area, additional berthing facilities and full accessibility for persons with disability have also been integrated within this development. The Terminal offers parking facilities and has easy access to public transport, thus providing a link to the TEN-T road network.

As a result of this investment, Ċirkewwa is now endowed with an energy efficient Ferry Terminal that caters for an increase in number of sea passengers during the peak summer periods as well as throughout the winter and shoulder months, thus making the Maltese tourism package more competitive and attractive.

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Refurbishment of the Valletta and Marsaxlokk Breakwaters and Refurbishment and upgrading of Deep Water Quay

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ith an allocation of more than €23 million, the breakwaters in Valletta and Marsaxlokk and the Deep Water Quay were also upgraded in order to better serve the purpose of providing shelter to all vessels and maritime activities at the Grand Harbour and the Marsaxlokk port. This aims to ensure their long-term structural integrity for ongoing economic activity in all sea/weather conditions. Investing in Malta’s accessibility through reliable maritime infrastructure is a fundamental factor in improving the economic performance and general standard of living of the Maltese citizens, as well as enhancing Malta’s overall economic competitiveness.

The Valletta breakwater which is located across the entrance of the Grand Harbour is more than 100 years old. Investment was undertaken to attend to the cracks which were evident on the breakwater’s spine, as well as other areas which needed immediate intervention. Part of the structures were rebuilt and general rehabilitation to the concrete, the reinforcements, the walls/stonework and the pavement was undertaken.

The Marsaxlokk breakwater, which is 1km long, dates back to the 1970s. It required major refurbishment as the structure was no longer stationary as a result of the cracks and openings at deck joints between caissons. In addition, the wave wall and deck areas had also suffered extensive deterioration, caused by corrosion or storm effects.

Investment of €12 million was also targeted towards the refurbishment and upgrading of the Deep Water Quay, located in the inner part of the Grand Harbour, to achieve a strengthened infrastructure which can meet the current and future demand of marine activities, mainly in relation to cargo. A fully functional Deep Water Quay will lead to reduced waiting times, delays and inefficiencies in the Grand Harbour.

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Achieving further accessibility through upgrading of Arterial and Distributor Roads

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econstruction and upgrading of other arterial and distributor roads in other localities in Malta and Gozo was also undertaken to improve the quality and efficiency of the roads that have a strategic linking function to the TEN-T in Malta. An investment of circa €16 million focused on improving accessibility, road safety and a reduced journey time with the aim of enhancing competitiveness within the south of Malta as well as Gozo.

In Malta, the infrastructural investment included the Marsascala Bypass as well as the Valletta Road leading to Żurrieq. This project covered 4.7km of upgraded roads aiming at improving the quality of life of the residential communities, as well as the competitiveness of the commercial, industrial and tourism facilities operating from Marsascala and Żurrieq. In Gozo, investment was directed towards the reconstruction of part of Xlendi Road and ta’ Pinu Road - two arterial roads leading to popular sites and surroundings with both locals and tourists. This has contributed towards the upgrading of the road network in Gozo in terms of easier, safer and more flexible access.

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Capitalising on Vertical Connections

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s part of the Accessibility and Mobility Policy for Valletta, greater access was provided between Valletta Waterfront and the heart of the city through a vertical link connecting the Lascaris Ditch to the Upper Barrakka.

This project invested more than â‚Ź2 million in a state-of-the-art elevator, encouraging a modal shift towards noncar modes when commuting to Valletta and providing a connection within the fortifications, and through the creation of a pedestrian-friendly environment.

The surrounding areas have also been enhanced through the development of pedestrian-friendly environments.

In fact this project has reactivated pedestrian routes, walkways and tunnels and has activated areas with a potential for great Grand Harbour view points.

Ancillary services and facilities, including a ticketing system, were also integrated within this development. Finally, this project has also complemented the investment undertaken to the cruise line terminal as it has provided a direct and convenient access to the city centre.

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Theme

Treating water as a precious resource

The security of water supply and the management of wastewater are two of the major challenges facing Malta. During the period 2007 to 2013, substantial investment was made to address both challenges, with considerable improvement having been registered in both areas. The vulnerability of the Maltese Islands to water scarcity is demonstrated by the fact that the Water Exploitation Index is in an upward trend indicating that Malta is a severely stressed country in terms of water resources. It is therefore critical that the necessary infrastructure is developed so as to provide us with enough water resources without depleting the aquifer, whilst at the same time implementing other structures and systems which allow us to better manage this precious resource.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

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Malta South Sewage Treatment Infrastructure

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aking care of Malta’s coastal waters is a key priority. Up until 2011 some 80% of all wastewater generated was being discharged in its raw form into the open sea less than 800 metres from the shore. This was having a significantly adverse effect on the quality of the sea surrounding the Maltese Islands and also heavily impacted the marine landscape. This was a particularly worrying situation when one considers the importance of the sea in terms of the health of the population, the importance of tourism to the local economy, and the fact that the sea is an important source of drinking water.

As a result of the project, which was completed in 2012, the remaining 80% of all wastewater is being treated. The project also included the construction of a waste treatment plant in Xgħajra, a new wastewater pumping station at Rinella, the upgrading of an existing wastewater pumping station in Xgħajra, the construction of a new 1.7 km wastewater gallery from Rinella to Xgħajra and the construction of a 1 km submarine pipeline for outfall.

This project cost €68 million, and upon completion, brought Malta in line with the EU Urban Wastewater Directive and the Water Framework Directive, particularly in relation to the protection of coastal waters. Most significantly, the completion of this project meant that Malta became the first Mediterranean country to treat all of its sewage before dumping it into the sea and has restored the 5 km coastline between Ricasoli and Marsascala by making it fit for bathing.

This project is considered to be one of the most important projects undertaken during the period 2007 to 2013, due to the quality of bathing water all around the Maltese coast now being considered to be of the highest calibre, with raw discharge being completely eliminated. This has had a tremendous impact on the quality of the sea waters with obvious implications for tourism, and diving tourism in particular.

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Investing in Better Water Management Systems

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n addition to the Malta South Waste Management plant, other investments were made on various infrastructural projects aimed at improving the treatment of wastewater and management of water resources. One such project resulted in the building of three polishing plants that were installed to further treat secondary-treated sewage to very high quality standards, thus making it suitable and safe for various non-potable purposes.

This project, which cost €13.7 million, will treat approximately 7 million m3 per annum of treated water and polish it to a very high quality. Such polished water can be made available to prospective users such as farmers and also be used for the recharging of the aquifers. This project can have a very important impact in that it may reduce the pressure on the natural aquifer by helping to meet the demand for water.

Another important achievement was made in the production and distribution of good quality drinking water. Through an investment of €6.3 million, the Water Services Corporation (WSC) has developed a system whereby it supplies its customers with good quality drinking water at the lowest possible cost and in the most environmentally sustainable manner possible. This project comprised of various elements such as trenching works, installation of more energy-efficient pumps, installation of RO membranes, installation and commissioning of new laboratory equipment for testing for chemical parameters and microbiological analysis, as well as the development of a water supply system management software.

Prior to this project, WSC had depended on an elaborate system of pumps to be able to extract water and move it to the 24 reservoirs where the water is blended and distributed to customers. This was done at a considerable cost due to high energy consumption. The investment in this project has considerably reduced the amount of energy being consumed to move and blend the water.

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Theme

Climate Change and Renewable Energy

Malta’s topology makes it extremely vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Rising sea water levels, flash floods, extreme hot temperatures and changing weather patterns are all said to be the result of climate change. All these factors are expected to continue to be exacerbated over the coming years and therefore Malta must and will continue to be at the forefront of the fight against climate change.

The production of energy through the combustion of fossil fuels contributes to Malta’s GHG emissions and is a main source of Malta’s air pollution. Therefore addressing the environmental impact of electricity generation and consumption is expected to have a significant impact on reducing emissions and improving the air quality of the country. A 10% target of clean energy generation has been set for the year 2020. It is therefore with this firmly in mind that a number of initiatives have been undertaken using EU funds to encourage the generation of clean energy whilst at the same time introducing energy efficiency practices.

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Creating a culture of clean energy generation

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hilst a number of sources for the creation of clean energy have been identified, the one with the most potential is that of solar energy generation. The photovoltaic resource potential in Malta is considered to be substantial when one takes into consideration the rooftops of private households as well as the considerable space potential offered by factories and public buildings such as schools.

The main barrier to encouraging investment in the field of solar energy is the actual cost of the photovoltaic infrastructure itself especially when it comes to the investment being carried out by domestic households. Whilst the ever increasing efficiency of modern day PVs is a major plus point, it is clear that some form of encouragement is still needed to be able to achieve the significant mind shift required.

Some €40 million were thus made available through two domestic schemes to the general public to invest in renewable energy infrastructure such as PVs and solar heaters with an estimated 10,000 households participating during the 7-year period. This effort is expected to provide a positive contribution towards the production of clean energy and the reduction of usage of fossil fuel.

The private sector also had an opportunity to access €10 million in an energy-related grant scheme focusing on supporting enterprises to invest in energy saving measures and alternative energy sources to minimise greenhouse emissions as well as enhance competitiveness. Through this scheme, around 200 enterprises invested in energy-related solutions and lighting as well as alternative energy sources which gave them the opportunity to reduce major costs in their daily business operations.

Alongside the investment in the necessary infrastructure, an educational campaign was undertaken to provide information to the general public on energy efficient consumption. More specifically, the campaign created awareness on issues such as excessive energy consumption, methods to save energy and how to make the best use of renewable energy sources.

Participation by educational and vocational institutions

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articipation in the generation of renewable energy was subsequently extended beyond the general public and private enterprise. Educational and vocational institutions were also given the possibility to participate through the receipt of grants for investment in renewable energy infrastructure.

An investment of almost €400,000 of ERDF funding was made by MCAST whereby an electrical power generating system complete with all the necessary associated hardware and monitoring systems was installed on the MCAST rooftops in Paola. A wind turbine was also installed to complement the energy generation capacity of the project which is expected to have a peak of 134kW in total.

Other similar projects were also undertaken by educational entities such as schools and band clubs in Gozo with some €1 million investment taking place.

Apart from contributing towards the effort of generating clean energy, these projects have also contributed towards the concept of turning Gozo into a hub of eco-initiatives (ECO Gozo).

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Energy Smart Authority

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hilst it is Government that must push the strategy for the generation of renewable energy, it is also clear that it must be Government that must lead by example.

One such example was given by the Housing Authority. The Housing Authority is the key player in public housing sector in Malta where the function of the Authority is to develop, promote and finance the development of housing estates and other residential accommodation and related facilities and amenities in Malta and Gozo.

Conscious of the role it has to play in the housing sector, the Authority undertook a project to convert its offices in Floriana into an eco-friendly building by investing in energy efficient lighting and a 3.48kwp photovoltaic system. The immediate results of the project are expected to translate into total savings on electricity of 15,444 kWh annually, estimated to be some 16% of the annual total energy consumption of the authority and translating into 5.08 tonnes of CO2 emissions saved.

Apart from the obvious benefits gained from increased energy efficiency, this project, which cost more than â‚Ź41,000, was also carried out with the scope of acting as a pilot project for similar investments that can be carried out in social housing with obvious greater benefits to be gained.

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Theme

Creating a Stronger Private Sector

As Malta continues to modernize its economy and face open competition, it has become increasingly clear that the private sector must continue to be the main source of growth. For this to take place, the private sector must be able to sustain the pressures of open competition by providing goods and services that are competitive, both in terms of price and quality. Therefore a considerable restructuring and re-modernizing effort is required to continue to put local enterprise on a firm footing.

With this firmly in mind, about â‚Ź42 million of ERDF financing, through grants and a Financial Instrument, were invested in assisting Malta-based SMEs to undertake important investments in key areas such as information technology, innovation, investments in renewable energy, and production methods. Concurrently, around â‚Ź8 million in ESF funding was targeted towards the training of human resources.

This was done right across the value chain, with manufacturing and tourism being two key areas of focus.

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Direct grants for Private Enterprise

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o help private enterprise to modernise the way it operates, circa €30 million were dedicated to assist Malta- based SMEs to invest in key areas such as production facilities, ICT infrastructure, marketing and research and development. The entity responsible for managing these funds was Malta Enterprise which managed a number of grant schemes and thus provided financial assistance under the following themes: • Innovation in business processes; • Development of e-business; • Adoption of more environmentally sound practices; • Investment in clean energy; • Internationalisation.

An estimated 540 firms benefitted directly from the grant schemes with enterprises in the waste sector, packaging sector, IT sector, food manufacturing, construction sector, printing sector as well as the tourism sector (covering hotels, restaurants, tourism attractions) using EU funds to carry out important investments assisting these companies to continue to create jobs and commerce.

It is also established that the cost of energy is one of the major expenses incurred by private enterprise in its daily carrying out of business. Furthermore, private enterprise is also one of the major contributors to greenhouse emissions and therefore the use of clean energy is considered to be a top priority both from a competitiveness point of view as well as from an environmental one.

Hence, through the investment of just over €10 million, some 200 firms have now improved their energy efficiency and increased their use of renewable energy whilst reducing emissions by using less fossil fuel generated energy.

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Training our workforce for a modern economy (TAF)

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he training of human resources remains a top priority for the country and indeed was one of the top priorities identified by the Government for the use of EU funds during the 2007-2013 programming period. The Training Aid Framework was launched in 2009 with a second round of funding being made available in 2014. More than â‚Ź8 million of EU funding were used by employers in all fields of business to receive training aimed at giving people additional skills that are relevant to the needs of the Maltese economy.

The Scheme promoted access to training of persons actively participating in the Maltese labour market. This has enabled over 800 beneficiaries to become more productive and competitive through the development of skills, knowledge and competence of their workforce.

Eligible beneficiaries received a partreimbursement of the training costs on the successful completion of a training programme. All private sector employers with one or more employees, or selfemployed, could apply for any training that is relevant to an enterprise or a self-employed person. Training could be organised in-house or out-sourced, be it in Malta or overseas. It is estimated that some 30,000 employees, 11,162 females and 18,223 males, received training through this programme spanning all sectors of the economy.

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Childcare Centres

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nother priority identified for the programming period 2007-2013 was that of increasing the female participation rate in the labour market.

This is considered to be a vital issue that will continue to sustain economic growth over the coming years. One key instrument aimed at facilitating the entry of women or indeed the retention of women in the workforce is the provision of childcare.

During the 2007-2013 programming period about â‚Ź400,000 was made available for investment in upgrading current childcare facilities whilst also improving the quality of service. These funds were also aimed at encouraging private enterprise to invest in their own facilities. An estimated 17 facilities benefitted from this funding which is expected to contribute significantly towards the target of having 33% of children between the ages of 0-3 covered by childcare facilities.

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Investing in our SMEs (JEREMIE)

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ne of the major challenges faced by SMEs is that of having access to the finance necessary for them to be able to invest so as to become more competitive or to be able to offer new products or services. The challenge of getting bank financing is further compounded by the fact that very often the SMEs are requested to provide the bank with guarantees of personal assets with a value often superior to the amount of the financing required.

With SMEs being the very backbone of the Maltese economy, it was clear that this was a situation that needed to be addressed. Therefore a financial instrument by the name of JEREMIE was set up whereby €10 million of EU funds were used as a guarantee for an equivalent of €58 million in the form of loans to Malta-based SMEs. This amount was further increased in 2013 by another €2 million of EU funding, resulting in the granting of over €62 million in loans and a total private investment of circa €106 million.

This programme was considered to be an outstanding success and provided a vital lifeline of financing to local SMEs which were thus assisted in creating a total investment of over €100 million during the 2007-2013 period. It is estimated that more than 650 firms benefitted from this financing, resulting in the creation of new jobs right across the economy.

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Theme

Public Administration

A number of projects were undertaken in the public administration with the aim of bolstering resources and capabilities within the administration to be able to provide an efficient and effective service.

Substantial investment was undertaken to facilitate the accessibility of secure government services for all citizens electronically. This was further complemented through investment in human capital so as to support the administration in pursuing and accelerating reform which in turn raises productivity and growth in the wider economy.

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Enhancing eGovernment Services

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he public administration embarked on a project consisting of providing electronic access to various government services.

Nearly â‚Ź9.5 million were invested towards the development of an eID Solution and e-government platform so as to make Government services more accessible and more user-centred.

The development of an eID Solution enabled the creation of a secure system enabling access to eGovernment services through identification, authentication and sign-in functions available for all citizens.

The eID Solution set the framework for the development of a new generation of more secure and focused eGovernment services through the conversion of the current identity handling databases into a single National Identity Management System.

The eID solution, which now serves all public and private sector requirements, will allow for the provision of eID cards and other sensitive services, such as contract signing, as well as the reorganisation of other identity databases.

Investment has also been directed towards the rapid development and deployment of eGovernment services through eForms. Through the eForms solution, all public sector forms are made readily available to the public electronically, thereby improving customer service through consistent and accurate communication. eForms also abolished the need for manual data entry and related verifications, thus enabling the public administration to be more efficient and effective. As a result of the project, 70 new eServices have been deployed and around 3,000 more people started using eGovernment services. eForms also facilitate storage, retrieval and categorisation of documents whilst also achieving cost and operational efficiencies.

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Theme

Developing human capital within the public administration round â‚Ź3.5 million were invested in the training of public officers to improve on their skills and competencies as well as to improve overall performance for an effective and efficient public administration. Around 9,500 public officers, of which over 5,500 were females, received training in 10 key areas, including Public Administration Management, Data Analysis and Information Management and Equality. The training delivered contributed towards the achievement of a proficient public administration which requires a workforce that is highly productive and that delivers high quality work.

Before training was embarked upon, a training-needs analysis amongst public officers was conducted to determine the current and emerging training needs for a public administration to support wider economic growth and sustainable development. Training programmes were created and tailored to bring them in line with these requirements so as to better respond to the changing requirements of a modern public administration.

Circa â‚Ź500,000 was also allocated for the strengthening of the human resource function of the public administration through the enhancement and formalisation of an Employee

Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

Support Programme (ESP). In collaboration with six partner organisations (FSWS, Hospice Movement, OASI Foundation, Richmond Foundation, KNPD and Kana Movement), each offering complementary services in respective areas, this programme, being work-place focused, assisted in the identification and resolution of problems preventing employees from performing effectively. This project offered information, consultation, assessment and short term counselling to public officers and employees experiencing psychosocial/disability difficulties with the aim of achieving a more productive, efficient and healthier workforce throughout the whole public administration. A total of 469 public officers made use of this service, with the majority seeking assistance from the Richmond Foundation in cases related to mental health, depression and work-related stress. Complementarily to this initiative, 80% of public administration management has also participated in other training initiatives focusing on recognising different types of psycho-social difficulties (such as personal, emotional and/or behavioural problems) which employees may be facing and the type of assistance available through the ESP project mentioned above.

Equal Opportunities and Social Inclusion

Dedicating a substantial amount of EU funding towards the provision of equal opportunities and social inclusion measures to those that need it most was considered vital within the 2007-2013 programme.

Vulnerable individuals have a higher risk of low educational attainment levels which compounds further the challenge of labour market integration and retention. In this context, the ESF Operational Programme financed a number of measures which aim to help vulnerable groups to identify, relate and seize educational opportunities to improve their quality of life.

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MCAST embarked on a project focusing on Inclusion for employment aimed at improving the employability of vulnerable groups. With a budget of more than €7 million, MCAST reviewed the curricula of all programmes falling within MQF levels 1 to 3, which programmes are primarily followed by disadvantaged students, specifically students with special needs and students with literacy difficulties. The learning difficulties faced by these students place them in a disadvantaged situation when compared to the rest of the student population and if they do not receive additional support are at a high risk of leaving the educational system. Courses at this level had been experiencing high drop-out rates and therefore a thorough review was conducted and an action plan was implemented. As a result of the review carried out, courses were audited, new syllabi were drawn up and training was delivered to 300 lecturers and staff to ensure that they are able to support students with increasingly diverse learning difficulties. Training was provided by KNPD by having interactive workshops on the theoretical aspects of inclusion issues, physical and intellectual disabilities. Training covered various themes related to the inclusion of vulnerable groups in education ex- student profiling, employment skills for marginalised groups and addressing challenging behaviour.

In addition, through this project, MCAST also conducted a thorough review of its Pathway to Independent Living Programme with the aim of improving the employment prospects of persons with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities/learning difficulties.

This Pathway Programme was a two-year programme providing vulnerable students with an opportunity to follow a specifically tailored and structured programme of study in subjects that have been developed closer to their needs.

To support the inclusion of persons with disability into employment, the KNPD also implemented a project worth nearly €400,000. The project focused on equipping around 60 professional staff with the necessary skills in dealing with the causes of challenging behaviour as well as the carrying out of a research study to grasp a thorough understanding of the needs of people with challenging behaviour. The research involved a detailed study of the quality of life of disabled persons with challenging behaviour in Malta and was based on

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two population samples: 100 disabled persons with challenging behaviour or their primary care givers and 100 persons working with disabled perons with challenging behaviour. Eventually, together with family members, the project contributed towards the development of long-term strategies and individual planning for around 70 persons with challenging behaviour to facilitate their access to educational and vocational services. It must be noted that this cohort is considered very vulnerable. All of 50 males and 20 females, the majority of whom are young people1, have only reached primary or early secondary education and therefore any specialised assistance given has contributed to their development with the aim of including them as much as possible in society and perhaps in the labour market. €2 million were allocated for the implementation of the LEAP project – a project which aimed to combat social exclusion and poverty through the creation of occupational opportunities for persons considered vulnerable or disadvantaged. This project facilitated social integration of vulnerable target groups, including single parents, people with disabilities, ex-offenders, migrants and ex-drug abusers through traineeship placements.

Over 270 traineeship placements with over 90 NGOs and public entities took place which provided an opportunity for the trainees to participate in employment in a semi-protective environment.

As a result of this project, over 40 persons have been to date integrated into mainstream employment.

Other EU funded projects in this area focused on enhancing equal opportunities from a gender perspective. More than €1 million was invested into two projects, led by the National Commission for the Promotion of Equality (NCPE) one focusing on unlocking the female potential and the other focusing on gender balance in decision-making.

1 41 persons younger than 24, 28 persons aged between 25 and 54 and one aged between 55 and 64.

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One challenging aspect in this area of work, is lack of local research, and to this end, both projects carried out intensive research – one focusing on learning and understanding what hinders women from getting involved in training and employment and the other focusing on the possible implementation of gender quotas and gender balanced representation in decision-making.

The research areas carried out by NCPE under one of these projects included: a) Gender-balanced representation in the boardrooms in Malta and Gozo;

This research aims to look at gender quotas in the boardrooms and gender electoral quotas aiming at achieving gender balance in decision-making. Awareness-raising campaigns, the provision of the ‘Equality Mark’ for equal opportunities employers, together with mentoring initiatives for women to occupy high-level jobs were also supported through these projects. The Equality Mark is a certification promoting gender equality as one of the main values together with the promotion of the full recognition of each and every employee irrespective of their gender. The main objectives of the ‘Equality Mark’ includes the following:

b) Gender-balanced representation in political decision-making positions in Malta and Gozo.

1) Policies 2) Recruitment 3) Employee Equality Representatives 4) Equality in Career opportunities 5) Family friendly measures 6) Gender Equality in relation to the accession of services and goods.

Whilst gender equality should be implemented in all spheres, the Equality Mark certification is being specifically targeted to employment. The aim is to incentivize and support employers as well as employees. The Equality Mark also extends to the goods and services offered by the specific organization so as to ensure that equal opportunities are promoted within other areas namely business development, marketing, and customer relations.

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Theme

Urban Regeneration

With the aim to increase economic activity and create an embellished environment in the Grand Harbour, €8.6 million were invested in the Cottonera region to facilitate accessibility and mobility in the Dock 1 area within the Bormla waterfront. The project focused on the achievement of an integrated urban regenerated area through the creation of a better environment and improved quality of life for citizens, by attracting more inhabitants to an area which was experiencing a high dwelling vacancy rate.

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The project adopted an integrated approach to achieve stronger Cottonera communities by involving the Local Council, the Department for Housing and AÄĄenzija Support. It brought the Bormla waterfront back to life by converting the unused industrial site into a high quality recreational and leisure space for all the family.

Investment focused on the redesigning of common public spaces through apposite landscaping works as well as the upgrading of transport networks. Transport transit options were created to sustain the development of stronger communities. Common spaces in housing quarters were also embellished together with the installation of renewable energy and energy efficient equipment for improved sustainable development. Community recreational spaces included the transformation of dead space into a play area and green gardens.

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As a result of this project, Dock 1 is accessible from all sides and residents now have total access to the promenade through the removal of the wall along Bormla. Enhanced accessibility from the Birgu Waterfront to Isla was also achieved through the development of a pedestrian connection through Bormla from St. Angelo to Boiler Wharf. In the process, the upgrading of the site at the St. John’s Bastion in front of residential area was also carried out. Works included a new lighting system, fixing of benches and soft / hard landscaping.

In partnership with AÄĄenzija Sapport, the surrounding area of Dar Bormla (Residential Home) was embellished by upgrading the street, parking spaces and public spaces to provide accessibility and mobility for persons with special needs.

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Programme Expenditure ERDF

ESF

CF

TOTAL

1,000m

1,000m Total Expenditure

Total Expenditure

Total Expenditure

Total Expenditure

Total Expenditure

0% 0% 2% 10% 20%

Total Expenditure

Total Expenditure

Total Expenditure

30% 49% 69%

Total Expenditure

100%

800m

800m

600m

600m

400m

400m

200m

200m

0

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

TOTAL

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Structural Funds in Malta: Success Stories

ISBN 978-99957-0-974-7 Published in Malta, 2016 by the Ministry for European Affairs and Implementation of the Electoral Manifesto www.eufunds.gov.mt Not for sale

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Operational Programme I and II – Cohesion Policy 2007 – 2013 Investing in Competitiveness for Better Quality of Life Empowering People for More Jobs and a Better Quality of Life Project part-financed by the European Union European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) European Social Fund (ESF) and Cohesion Fund (CF) Co-financing rate: 85% EU Funds (70% ERDF; 30% ESF); 15% National Funds Investing in your future