The Malta Arts Council and the MCAST Institute for the Creative Arts (ICA) have signed a collaboration agreement aimed at strengthening the link between education and Malta’s cultural and creative sectors.

The agreement, signed during the 10th edition of the MCAST ICA Festival, seeks to encourage greater participation in culture, support the professionalisation of the sector and create more opportunities for students.

Through the partnership, the Malta Arts Council will contribute towards the festival’s production costs and fund the appointment of a professional curator, who will oversee the exhibition while providing students with hands-on training in curatorial practice.

Malta Arts Council Executive Chairman Dr Luke Dalli described the agreement as an investment in the future of Malta’s cultural sector, saying it will help students develop both their skills and professional experience.

“The Malta Arts Council believes that investing in arts and creative education is a direct investment in the future of our cultural sector. Through collaborations like this with MCAST, we are helping students and educators gain access to the tools, experiences and opportunities that strengthen their professional development. This is an important step in our ongoing efforts to promote greater professionalisation within the sector and support the next generation of Maltese artists and creatives,” said Dr Dalli.

Meanwhile, MCAST Principal Steven Vella said the agreement will further strengthen the connection between creative education and the professional sector, while giving students greater guidance and direct exposure to the creative industries.

“This agreement helps strengthen the link between creative education and the professional sector our students are preparing to enter. The MCAST ICA Festival already provides students with a public platform to showcase the quality and ambition of their work. This enhanced collaboration adds another dimension to that experience by giving students access to professional curatorial guidance and closer engagement with the creative sector,” said Vella.