ERDF 66: Computer systems and computer laboratories at MCAST ICT Institute, Malta/Gozo

This project involved the setting up of new computer systems/labs for MCAST Institutes both in Malta and in Gozo. This involved the setting up of 5 new labs in Malta and 1 in Gozo and the upgrading of another 10 labs in Malta and 2 in Gozo.

The overall objectives of the project are:1. to make Malta a centre of excellence in ICT and a pillar in the local economy. In fact as one of the main section of the Government National Strategy for Malta 2008-2010 entitled "Developing potential into a smart and global workforce" aims at more than double the number of students graduating in ICT based qualifications2. to increase MCAST's overall capacity and quality of facilities available to students thus offering a better educational experience, host an ever increasing student body due to higher participation rates in higher levels of education and specialisation, contributing also towards the Lisbon Agenda.3. to support Malta's efforts in investing in human capital, thus improving Malta's attractiveness for foreign and indigenous investment (particularly in ICT sector) and the quality of life.4. to addresses Gozo's regional distinctiveness by investing in education resources, thus offering equal opportunities to Gozitans. This will improve accessibility to education, human capital and skills5. to help MCAST attain a number of the target laid in its strategic plan namely those related to quality of teaching, student numbers, staff development, lifelong learning, equal opportunity and local workforce.6. to address Government's focus in ICT foreign direct investment and provide a workforce with the skills and competencies needed. In this regard Government's plan is to attracting a number of foreign ICT firms to set up shop in Malta as well as the large Smart City project which is guaranteeing a total 5700 full time jobs within the next five years out of which 3700 will be in the ICT field.

At the end of the project eighteen laboratories will be upgraded or set up and equipped with IT equipment to cater for courses within the Institute of Information and Communication TechnologyTen existing laboratories will be upgraded and five new laboratories will be set up in Malta. Two existing laboratories will be upgraded and one new laboratory will be set up in Gozo.

1. To improve the quality of teaching in ICT and thus offer a better educational experience in higher levels of education and specialisation.2. To match the skills and competencies of students of the emerging needs of industry so as to make students more employable.3. To re-skill and up skill personnel from ICT sector and thus help them to maintain jobs, progress with their organisation and increase earnings.4. To offer specifically designed stand-alone modules to persons with skills in these fields obtained through formal and informal learning routes.5. To enable the college to extend the portfolio of courses offered by the Institute of Information and Communication Technology ranging foundation, levels 1-4 shortly to undergraduate degree level.