https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/121760 Sun, 12 Apr 2026 17:04:17 GMT 2026-04-12T17:04:17Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/137276 Title: The transition of Maltese military retirees to new careers after twenty-five years of service Abstract: This thesis delves into the transition experiences of Maltese veterans moving from military to civilian life, examining the complexities and nuances of this significant life change. Through a qualitative study employing narrative interviewing, the research captures veterans' personal stories and perspectives, shedding light on the multifaceted challenges they face during this transition. Qualitative data was secured via semi-structured interviews with a purposeful, nonrepresentative sample of twelve respondents (ten males; two females) who have seen long service with the Armed Forces of Malta. The study identifies three main themes: 'Transition Challenges,' 'Coping and Adjusting Strategies,' and 'The Role of career advisor in Transition Support.' These themes underscore the difficulties veterans encounter in finding civilian roles comparable to their military experience, the psychological adjustments necessary to cope with the loss of a high-adrenaline work environment, and the critical role of career advisors in supporting this transition. Theoretical frameworks, including the Theory of Human Motivation, Rite of Passage, Work Adaptation, Continuity, and Social Learning, are integrated to understand the transition process comprehensively. Key findings reveal that veterans struggle with validating military certifications in civilian employment, adjusting to different work cultures, and coping with PTSD. The narratives highlight the importance of early and practical career guidance tailored to military personnel's unique experiences and needs. Recommendations include developing collaborative programs with employers and educational institutions, enhancing career advisory services, and incorporating family members into transition support programs. This research contributes to the broader discourse on military-to-civilian transition, offering insights into the Maltese context and underscoring the need for targeted support systems. It emphasises the importance of acknowledging and utilising the skills and experiences of veterans, ultimately aiding their integration into civilian life and honouring their service. Description: M. LCGD(Melit.) Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/137276 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/130588 Title: Green guidance : enhancing the role of career guidance in Maltese state secondary schools Abstract: This research explored the crucial link between climate change and sustainable careers, emphasising how professional decisions can shape a more environmentally responsible future. The study delved into the intersections of climate change, sustainability, and career guidance in state secondary schools in Malta. It investigated how career guidance practitioners perceived and implemented sustainability and aimed to uncover factors supporting or hindering the integration of eco-friendly principles into career guidance work. This dissertation adopted an interpretive approach to investigate an under-researched area of green career guidance in Maltese government secondary schools. The research questions guided the exploration, and in response to the identified needs, a digital manual, Uncovering green guidance – A practical manual for career guidance practitioners, was developed to empower career guidance practitioners and serve as a comprehensive resource for integrating green guidance into their practices. Exploring career guidance practices in Maltese state secondary schools revealed a critical need for enhancing green guidance integration. Pressing issues included a lack of awareness and knowledge about sustainability, student resistance towards career-related matters, insufficient human and time resources, and concerns about impartiality. The study highlighted the importance of empowerment and proposed strategies to equip career guidance practitioners for effective green guidance integration. The need for a paradigm shift towards embedded sustainability mindsets was highlighted, emphasising the transformative role of well-informed practitioners and continuous professional development. This study contributed unique insights to the Maltese context, serving as a starting point for a more environmentally conscious approach to secondary school career guidance. Description: M. LCGD(Melit.) Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/130588 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/122053 Title: Exploring the issues related to confined space training Abstract: This qualitative study explores the intricacies of Confined Space Training, driven by personal experiences and curiosity to better understand the topic. Initially starting as an individual performing Confined Space Entries with limited formal training, the researcher gradually gained expertise through various courses, professional roles, and academic pursuits in Occupational Health and Safety. Witnessing gaps in understanding and tragic outcomes due to inadequate training, the study aims to comprehensively analyse existing systems. This investigation evaluates international perspectives on defining confined spaces, understanding their management, and the associated training requisites. With the absence of a universal standard, various countries possess specific legislation, like in Malta, where training obligations lack clarity, potentially allowing interpretations that impact safety measures. Utilizing a qualitative approach, insights from professionals experienced in Confined Space work for the core data collection. The study seeks to identify areas for enhancement in training protocols, considering both legal compliance and practical application. It aspires to provide recommendations to fortify safety cultures and efficiency in Confined Space work environments. The dissertation, organized into five chapters, introduces the study's purpose and objectives, reviews related literature, outlines the research methodology, discusses primary findings, and concludes with actionable recommendations for the subject under examination. Description: B. OHS(Hons)(Melit.) Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/122053 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z