Malta: Closing the gap between VET provision and industry

At its core, the programme introduces micro-placements for vocational educators, offering them firsthand exposure to real-world practices across diverse sectors. These include subjects such as agribusiness, creative media, engineering technology, fashion and textiles, health and social care, hair and beauty, hospitality, information technology, and retail—namely all vocational subjects taught at compulsory education in Malta. By immersing educators in authentic work environments, the initiative equips them with insights into current trends, technologies, and operational challenges that they can integrate into classroom teaching. Furthermore, the intention is to equip educators with the latest industry-related knowledge and the skills of tomorrow.

The benefits of this approach are twofold:

• For educators, it enhances professional development, enriches teaching methodologies, and provides access to authentic learning materials.
• For the industry, it offers an opportunity to influence curriculum development, ensuring better alignment between academic training and workforce requirements.

This collaboration also creates an early talent pipeline, reducing recruitment costs and addressing persistent skills gaps. Such education-industry partnerships are increasingly encouraged in Malta, in line with the Ministry for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation (MEYR) National education strategy 2024–2030. It also aligns with the country's commitment to the new Herning Declaration launched in September 2025.

The Bridge with Industry project will begin with a pilot phase involving several educators in the specific subject areas mentioned. This pilot phase has already seen active engagement from key stakeholders, including the Malta Chamber of Commerce and the Chamber of SMEs, who will support and facilitate placements in sectors such as care homes, fashion, and agribusiness. Despite initial challenges in securing placements, the project is gaining momentum through outreach to wider industries and targeted engagement, reflecting a shared commitment to vocational excellence. It is set to commence very soon, with the selected educators on board and keenly motivated for this learning opportunity.

Looking ahead, the initiative will extend to a broader range of educators while planning to scale up by compiling an industry register, incentivising host enterprises, and embedding best practices into the VET curriculum review frameworks. These steps aim to institutionalise collaboration, ensuring that vocational education remains agile and responsive to evolving economic landscapes.

Ultimately, Bridge with Industry is more than a pilot project or idea—it is a vision for systemic change through transformation. By fostering partnerships between education and enterprise, it empowers educators, enriches student learning, and strengthens Malta’s competitiveness in a global economy driven by skills and innovation.

Read more

• Malta's National education strategy 2014-30
• The Bridge with industry initiative webpage