Strengthening professional capacity in Maltese language teaching for integration

A cohort of 12 teachers of Maltese as a foreign language has recently completed a 25-hour professional development study unit on the teaching of Maltese for integration purposes. The study unit was delivered by Dr Phyllisienne Vassallo Gauci within the Department of Inclusion and Access to Learning, Faculty of Education, and directly aligns with the University of Malta’s Strategic Plan, particularly its commitment to educational excellence, social inclusion, and meaningful societal engagement.

The course was designed to enhance both pedagogical competence and critical professional awareness among educators working in multilingual and culturally diverse learning contexts. It focused on curriculum-informed teaching, materials development, and effective classroom delivery, reinforcing the Faculty of Education’s mission to promote inclusive, research-informed, and practice-oriented teacher education. A central feature of the programme was the systematic integration of curriculum analysis, reflective practice, and peer feedback. Particular attention was given to aligning teaching practices with learner needs and broader national integration objectives.

All participating educators are currently involved, in the delivery of the I Belong Stage 2 Maltese Language for Integration course. This course constitutes a mandatory requirement for third-country nationals seeking long-term residence in Malta, positioning Maltese language education as a high-stakes component of national integration policy. The University’s role in delivering and sustaining this programme underscores its contribution to public service, civic responsibility, and knowledge transfer.

The Maltese language curriculum component of the I Belong course was co-developed by Dr Vassallo Gauci and has been delivered by the University of Malta since 2019. To date, hundreds of learners have successfully completed the course. In recognition of its national relevance, educators involved in its delivery continue to receive structured professional development and academic support coordinated by the Department of Inclusion and Access to Learning.

This training exemplifies the University of Malta’s strategic vision of fostering inclusive education, and contributing to national priorities through high-quality teaching and sustained academic engagement.