Inaugural Meeting Highlights

In a meeting hosted by the Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST), the Alliance has elected its new secretary general, Mr. John L. Harris. Mr. Harris brings to the Role over 30 years of experience in industry, corporate diplomacy and stakeholder engagement across multiple continents.

The meeting approved a work plan for the first year. A top priority for 2023 will be the establishment of governance bodies, which include the Academic and Student Councils, Industry-Relations Council, and Advisory Board. Furthermore, the Alliance will embark on a research program that will investigate the methods and impacts of dual higher education.

Until the end of 2023 the alliance will announce a first of its kind dual studies masters until the end of the year, as well as its first catalogue of micro-credentials focused on the Future of Work. It will also launch a Dual Studies Centre of Excellence – an initiative pooling the institutions' collective expertise in dual studies for the purpose of promoting the modelling globally. This will lead to the organisation of a first conference on dual higher education in Malta in early 2024.

From the start of the 2023-24 academic year, students and staff at the 9 institutions will gain additional opportunities across the EU4Dual network, as well as participate in multiple new research projects launched in areas linked to the green transition and future of work.

We are confident that our collaborative efforts will cultivate innovative solutions to address the complex challenges we face today and tomorrow.