Postgraduate Certificate in Climate Financial Risk launched after MoU is signed between UM & Climate Action Authority

A partnership between the University of Malta (UM) and the Climate Action Authority (CAA) has led to the launch of a new Postgraduate Award in Climate Financial Risk, available from the next academic year.

The initiative reflects the CAA’s commitment to strengthening knowledge, education, and resilience across Malta through collaboration with key institutions.

University of Malta’s Rector, Prof. Alfred J. Vella welcomed this partnership and stressed on the importance of the university serving the industry and delivering specialised modules that provide professionals working in the field the opportunity to further strengthen their competences.

Commenting on the programme, CAA CEO Abigail Cutajar said, “Today, we are proud to announce this new postgraduate programme in Climate Financial Risk in partnership with the University of Malta. Climate action must be informed, strategic, and forward-looking, and this course is another important step towards that goal. This collaboration also reflects the strong trust and cooperation being built between the Authority and the University.”

Dean of the Faculty of Economics, Management and Accountancy, Prof. Simon Grima, added, “This Postgraduate Award reflects the University of Malta’s commitment to addressing emerging global challenges through applied, interdisciplinary education. Climate financial risk is now a core strategic concern for organisations across all sectors. Through this programme, we aim to equip professionals with the analytical tools and risk management frameworks needed to integrate climate considerations into decision-making and governance, while supporting Malta’s transition towards a more resilient and sustainable economy."

Dr Jonathan Spiteri, Senior Lecturer in Insurance & Risk Management within the same Faculty, stated, “We developed this award to translate complex climate financial risk concepts into practical insights that professionals can apply in their day-to-day roles. The programme is designed to help participants anticipate risks, identify opportunities, and contribute to Malta’s sustainable future.”

The hands-on programme will equip participants with the skills and tools needed to understand how climate change impacts Malta’s business and social landscape, while offering practical approaches to managing climate-related risks and opportunities. Delivered by leading academics and practitioners over one week, the course is scheduled to commence in October 2026.

Topics covered include the economic, social, and business impacts of climate change, climate risk typologies, strategic climate risk management, mitigation and adaptation, climate regulation, climate finance tools, and climate transition planning.

[Photo, from left: CAA Chief Finance & Administration Officer, Mr Mark Agius, CAA Chief Executive Officer, Ing. Abigail Cutajar, UM Rector, Prof. Alfred J. Vella, Dean of the Faculty of Economics, Management and Accountancy, Prof. Simon Grima, Senior Lecturer within the Faculty of Economics, Management and Accountancy, Dr Jonathan Spiteri].