Salary increases, new allowances for MCAST staff under collective agreement

A new collective agreement signed between MCAST and the Malta Union of Teachers (MUT) will introduce salary improvements, better working conditions and new allowances for managerial staff at the college.

Signed on Thursday morning at the education ministry, the agreement covers the period from January 2025 to December 2027.

In a statement, government said the agreement aims to modernise working conditions at MCAST, with an emphasis on employee well-being, work-life balance, and a more inclusive working environment.

The agreement, which will be implemented in the coming weeks, includes salary improvements and new allowances reflecting the responsibilities and contributions of managerial staff to the college’s daily operations.

These include staff responsible for managing institutes, research, logistics, maintenance, human resources, procurement, and administration.

In May, the General Workers Union (GWU) launched an industrial dispute at MCAST due to a lack of communication regarding the finalisation of the collective agreement despite multiple unfulfilled assurances that the signing was imminent.

During the signing, Education Minister Byron Camilleri stressed that strengthening vocational education must go hand in hand with continued investment in the employees responsible for managing and developing educational institutions.

“By securing better working conditions, we are valuing their contribution and fostering a professional environment that is better aligned with contemporary needs,” Camilleri said.

“We will continue working to ensure that everyone contributing to the education sector receives the conditions and recognition they deserve.”

MCAST Principal Stephen Vella said the agreement recognises the responsibilities of managerial staff and marks another step towards improving working conditions at the college.

“To continue offering the highest quality education to our students, we must, first and foremost, value the people who contribute daily to the work and development of the college,” he said.

MUT President Marco Bonnici welcomed the agreement, saying it would improve employees’ working conditions and financial packages while recognising their contribution to MCAST’s operations.

Also present at the signing were Education Ministry Permanent Secretary Matthew Vella, Office of the Prime Minister Permanent Secretary for People and Standards Joyce Cassar, along with other representatives from MCAST and the MUT.