KEEPING A SMALL TOWN RUNNING SMOOTHLY to build a residential complex on campus (the
The University of Malta (UoM) is a
University Residence and Community Complex,
small town with people of all ages
see pg 84). ‘One of the biggest challenges,’ says
from over 90 different countries
Stefania Agius Fabri (Director, International and
living alongside each other in a
EU Office) ‘is to maintain a support system that
few hundred square metres. It must create
never fails a student.’ For 18–20 year olds, this
the best possible environment to encourage
is already a difficult time. Add culture shock to
people to work, learn, and research together.
the mix and the situation can become very tricky.
An important group is international students
‘Support requires staff training and constant re-
attracted to Malta to study and research.
evaluation, focus group work and questionnaires
International students are key. They are an
help keep up the momentum. Having a 24/7
opportunity for the majority of local students
helpline, a dedicated office supported by pro-
to learn from different cultures and discuss
rectors and a Counselling Service really helps.’
with people who do not share common life experiences. This helps open minds. To counteract stiff competition from other
In 2007, revisions made to the Foundation Programme allowed the UoM to engage more effectively with Gulf countries. This enabled
countries, all trying to attract international
an increase in student numbers from countries
students, the UoM has focused its attention
like Kuwait. It attracted the attention of the
on what international students really look for:
Ministries of Higher Education in Oman and
a one stop shop to attend to all their concerns.
Saudi Arabia who started to send students
To this end, improvements were made to the
to Malta. These were funded through their
campus environment, academic coordinators
respective scholarship programmes.
were appointed in every faculty, specific people now cater for their needs, and there are plans
Relations with China were strengthened following the establishment of the Confucius
People & Personalities
T
he university experience is complex.
Photo by www.iCreatemtotionStudio.com
The University of Malta has over 12,000 students and almost 2,700 staff. Patricia Camilleri talks about international appeal, student celebrations, and key staff that keep the engine running.
21