The Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST), the main public VET provider in Malta, is developing AI models to enhance student support in VET.
These models are developed and coordinated by the Applied Research and Innovation Centre (ARIC), the institutional unit responsible for applied research and technology transfer. ARIC oversees the development of locally hosted AI systems designed to support learning and research activities. Among these initiatives, the STAR model helps students organise research materials and prepare dissertation proposals through structured digital research repositories, while the REACH-ETHICS model uses AI-driven avatars and immersive scenarios to help learners analyse ethical dilemmas and develop responsible research practices. Together, these tools show how institutionally controlled AI models can provide targeted academic support for VET students while ensuring data governance and academic integrity.
MCAST is implementing several internal AI models developed through research projects funded by partners engaged by the Applied Research and Innovation Centre (ARIC), MCAST’s unit responsible for coordinating and promoting applied research, technology transfer and innovation activities linked to vocational education. These models are based on locally hosted open-source systems that rely exclusively on lecturer-developed notes as authoritative sources, ensuring institutional control, data protection and academic integrity. The research teams deconstruct validated knowledge sources, such as lecture notes, text and images, into structured, AI-readable datasets that power tailored digital tools which support student learning and research
AI projects that support VET students
STAR is an AI-supported project that helps MCAST students develop dissertation proposals in line with different learning styles. It supports the collection, organisation and structuring of research materials, automatically compiling relevant sources into a digital repository and helping students connect findings to their dissertation topics. The tool also recommends alternative learning resources and gives supervisors better insight into the materials students use, enabling more targeted guidance.
REACH-ETHICS is an initiative that modernises ethics training in vocational education by integrating artificial intelligence and virtual reality. Through immersive scenarios with AI-driven avatars, students explore ethical dilemmas related to research and professional practice, particularly in fields such as healthcare and animal studies. The approach enables learners to practise decision-making and develop critical judgement while giving educators innovative digital tools for teaching applied ethics.
All the projects that MCAST is endeavouring to undertake in the AI field aim to provide practical assistance in specific contexts. This work is a fundamental part of MCAST’s mission and an important way for the college to contribute to the community.
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| Please cite this news item as: ReferNet Malta and, & Cedefop (2026, March 16th). Malta: AI supports VET students in Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST). National news on VET |