University of Malta elects Frank Bezzina as Rector

Professor Frank Bezzina has been elected the 82nd Rector of the University of Malta by the university’s council on Thursday.

Bezzina, a professor Business and Enterprise Management and previous acting president, will start his five-year term on 1 July 2026 and will be succeeding Alfred J. Vella, who has held the position since 2016.

He ran uncontested for the position and was nominated by 15 council members, including members of the senate and students, members elected by academics, staff, and members appointed to represent the general interest of the country.

During a presentation to the council, Bezzina outlined his vision of the university as a strategic national institution that actively shapes Malta’s future.

He added that his vision is for the university to offer a holistic experience for students and staff, grounded in equality, diversity, and inclusion.

In his presentation, Bezzina expressed the need for long-term strategic planning, diversified funding, and sustainable investment, while building on what already works well and having the courage to reform what does not.

Bezzina pledged that as Rector, he will listen carefully, act thoughtfully, and keep the long-term interests of the university and of the country at heart.