The University of Malta (UM) has clarified its approach to financial sustainability and course provision following concerns about its €23.2 million debt, saying it is actively diversifying revenue streams while maintaining its commitment to free undergraduate education for Maltese citizens.

In comments to WhosWho.mt, UM explained that all financial strategies are thoroughly discussed at Council level and said the institution “continuously explores avenues to diversify its revenue streams.” Among these initiatives are “the recruitment of fee-paying students, primarily from third countries (non-EU nationals), the introduction of micro-credentials (stand-alone academic units), and collaborative partnerships with industry stakeholders.”

UM also pointed to the work of the Research, Innovation and Development Trust (RIDT), which secures supplementary funding for research from private organisations and individuals.

On the issue of raising fees for international students, the University noted that it “does not independently set tuition fees,” which are established by national legislation and can only be amended by the Government.

Asked whether it would consider making Maltese citizens pay for tertiary education, UM stressed that it “fully supports the principle of free undergraduate education for Maltese citizens. This policy ensures equitable access to higher education and enables students from all backgrounds to pursue their academic and professional goals.”

Aligning with industry and addressing skills gaps

Responding to concerns over Malta’s skills gap in sectors such as iGaming, maritime, and digital industries, the University highlighted ongoing efforts to adapt courses to meet labour market needs. UM said it “actively collaborates with various sectors through Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs), strategic agreements, and partnerships” and that new courses have been introduced to equip graduates with skills in emerging and high-demand industries.

Industry partners are also being included on various boards of studies “to ensure stakeholder participation,” the University confirmed.

No reduction in academic options

UM addressed reports that it had scaled back elective courses as part of cost-cutting measures, describing this as a “misunderstanding.” In some cases, elective units have been reclassified as compulsory study units “to ensure that all graduates meet essential learning outcomes without diminishing academic quality,” the University said.

It emphasised that students continue to have an “extensive list of elective study-units” and that it offers around 5,700 individual study units across its programmes. “There has been no reduction in the academic options available at UM,” it added, pointing out that hundreds of programmes are offered across 14 faculties, 12 centres, 16 institutes, and three schools, many of which are also available on a part-time basis.