https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/14828 2026-04-15T18:47:41Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/31565 Title: Water usage in the Maltese agricultural sector : a study analysing groundwater irrigation in the island of Gozo Abstract: Water is critical for the agricultural sector and worldwide food provision. It has proved to be the most important factor for both animal husbandry and crop production. Rainfall sustains the majority of crop production but other water sources are used when crop water requirements are not fully met by rainwater. While a number of different water sources are used for irrigation, groundwater is the most used resource worldwide (GWP, 2012). Groundwater use for irrigation developed over the last half a century with technology advancements aiding this development. It led to large scale farming across the globe and consequently improved food security, increased production and served as an economic incentive to farmers. This research posits ‘accessibility and availability of groundwater’ as the most attractive driver for the use of groundwater for irrigation. On the other hand rainfall inconsistency is the most determining factor which forces farmers to seek water. The exploitation of groundwater resources is noted in places with arid characteristics. The over-reliance on groundwater in Malta is reflected in national official statistics. In this research a series of meter readings, reflecting actual groundwater usage showed there is a substantial use of this resource although data varied from national statistics. The reason for the variance between the two sets of data is due primarily to modelled national groundwater usage data. Groundwater usage data based on actual use is still to be compiled from water meters which have only been installed in recent years. Alternative water sources and the implementation of irrigation management strategies are the best methods to reduce damage on groundwater while ensuring that water for irrigation is being used sustainably. Alternative water sources include the ‘new water’ that is still being developed in Malta and stored rainwater. The most ideal irrigation management strategy involves the use of irrigation methods which are water saving. Description: M.SC.SUS.DEVELOPMENT 2017-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/21793 Title: Investigating the relationship between tertiary education and employment in Malta’s labour market Abstract: Education can be considered as one of the main features of a social formation contributing to the development of our economies and societies. The need for those in the labour force to develop their skills and knowledge has been rapidly increasing as job tasks are becoming more complex and job mobility increases. Such advances can raise doubts about the relationship that exists between education and economic development in terms of labour market needs. The diversity in educational provision in the small island of Malta is very promising however the problem of skills shortages in the labour market is still persisting and has become one of the government’s highest priorities. By studying the changing landscape of education expansion and the transition of graduates from university to the world of work, one can draw out the implications for the policies of governments and national identity. By identifying the aspects behind students’ choice of study, this study aims to explore the relationship between tertiary education and labour market trends of Maltese graduates and tries to recognize whether such a population has a skill mis-match or otherwise. Consequently, the effects of this mis-match on graduates’ earnings are measured. This was done using the University of Malta alumni students as a case study. The various research methods, including the manipulation of the primary and secondary data collected from different sources and a detailed description of the methodological approach adopted in this study will be presented. All the data gathered will be recorded, interpreted and discussed in depth. These findings will eventually help future researchers to determine what instigates skills gap among graduate workers and how this is affecting the development of Malta’s labour market. Moreover, this research will act as a surrogate measure to link the sectors of education and employment for the benefit of a healthier economy, which attracts foreign direct investment leading to employment, job satisfaction and a more sustainable economy. Description: M.SC.SUS.DEVELOPMENT 2016-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/14829 Title: Institute for Climate Change & Sustainable Development 2012 - 2017 Abstract: A list of the dissertations submitted to the Institute for Climate Change & Sustainable Development between 2012 - 2017 2017-01-01T00:00:00Z