News
Landmark Industry-Academia Link Established
Following the recent announcement by the Competitive Malta Foundation relating to the agreement it had reached with the Public Policy Department at the University of Malta, a Memorandum of Understanding detailing the agreement reached was signed on Thursday, 3 July 2008. The Memorandum related to research to be undertaken by University students reading for public policy degrees in conjunction with Competitive Malta Foundation on topics relating to domestic competitiveness.
Prof. Pirotta signing the Memorandum of Understanding.
From Left to Right: Bernard Mallia (Competitive Malta Research Co-ordinator), Hugh Arrigo (Industrialist), Godfrey Pirotta (Head, Public Policy Department), Juanito Camilleri (Rector), Andy Gatesy (Competitive Malta Vice President), Adrian Said (Competitive Malta Chief Co-ordinator), Caroline Sciortino (Competitive Malta Research Co-ordinator).
During the meeting that preceded the signature of the Memorandum, several issues relating to competitiveness and the role of Malta’s human resource base in achieving a competitive edge were discussed by representatives from the University and the Competitive Malta think tank. The chief challenges and concerns addressed related to the disparities in pay and in opportunities for postdoctoral placements existing between the Maltese labour market and foreign counterparts; the transport system in the face of rising oil prices and the related issue of logistics; water supply; and academic financing.
It was also noted that great strides had been made in the recent past in endowing the Maltese people with skills that are relevant to the private industry. Nevertheless, a strategic decision has to be taken now to determine the competitive position and the core competencies of this island in 10 years’ time.
The meeting included an exploration of further opportunities for co-operation between the University of Malta and the Competitive Malta Foundation. A number of ideas were elicited and will be explored in the months to come.
The Memorandum which sets out the procedural aspects and the parameters within which this scheme is intended to work was signed by Prof. Juanito Camilleri and Prof. Godfrey Pirotta on behalf of the University of Malta and by Mr Andy Gatesy, CEO of Toly Products and Vice-President of the Competitive Malta Foundation on behalf of the Competitive Malta think tank.
Prof. Camilleri signing the Memorandum of Understanding.
Mr. Gatesy signing the Memorandum of Understanding.
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