A Framework Collaboration Agreement together with a Specific Agreement, covering a period of 3 years has been signed between the Gozo Regional Development Authority (GRDA) and The Malta College of Arts, Science & Technology (MCAST).
The first agreement will endeavour to undertake collaborative initiatives in areas that are of common interest for both the GRDA and MCAST.
The GRDA explained that it will be offering sponsorships from time to time for courses held at MCAST as the case may be.
The GRDA added that it will also be offering the possibility of publishing any research or studies related to Gozo that are carried out by MCAST students or its academic staff in one of the GRDA publications including the publication ‘Perspettivi: A Gozo Review.’
MCAST will also be assisting and providing guidance to the GRDA to the best of their ability when formulating policies and undertaking initiatives in line with the Gozo Regional Development Strategy.
The Specific Agreement “specifies the first collaborative initiative to be undertaken between the two sides,” the GRDA said.
The GRDA will be sponsoring a scholarship that is being offered in the MCAST’s Master’s Programme for a maximum total amount of €6,500. The research theme will be chosen and mutually agreed between the GRDA and MCAST.
Mario Borg, CEO of the GRDA, stated MCAST is an important player in the socio-economic development of Gozo, providing an essential link between education, training and their application.
He added that, “this agreement signals the intention of both GRDA and MCAST to collaborate and seek synergies that can be leveraged for the benefit of Gozo.”
Deputy Principal Dr Mario Cardona said that MCAST looks forward to this collaboration with GRDA “as we set out to keep strengthening the role of our Gozo campus.”
“The college encourages research that is diverse, applied, and focused on the needs of industry and the community including the Gozitan community,” he said.
The Framework Collaboration Agreement and the Specific Agreement were signed by Mr Mario Borg, CEO of the GRDA and Dr Mario Cardona , Deputy Principal Arts and Social Sciences.