As part of the EU Agenda for Adult Learning in Malta project which has been administered by the Directorate for Lifelong Learning and Employability (DLE) within the Ministry for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation (MEYR) since 2012 a number of Upskilling Pathways Meetings, usually between three and four every year, were organised by the Directorate to oversee and discuss the implementation of the Upskilling Pathways Recommendations. Throughout 2024 the Upskilling Pathway working group has been overseeing the implementation of Upskilling Pathways related measures within the Malta National Lifelong Learning Strategy 2023 – 2030. 

The third and final 2024 working group meeting was held on the 26^th of November and it again brought together a range of strategic stakeholders, from relevant government bodies, education providers, and social partners. Together, they discussed key updates and strategies for improving lifelong learning opportunities for adults in Malta.

The meeting began with an update on the Pact for Skills, a European initiative designed to address the urgent need for upskilling and reskilling, particularly in response to the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. EU Agenda for Adult Learning in Malta Project Officer Francesco Tabone highlighted the Pact's main objectives, which focus on empowering citizens with essential skills, ensuring lifelong learning for all, and encouraging collaboration across the public and private sectors.

Ensuring Malta’s involvement in the Pact is of particular importance due to the country's evolving job market, demographic shifts, and increasing demand for skills in green and digital sectors. During the meeting, participants discussed how the Pact offers numerous benefits, including access to a large EU network, funding opportunities, and resources for networking and knowledge-sharing. 

The discussions focused on how stakeholders, from government agencies to employers and education providers, can collaborate to meet this target. Participants from various sectors expressed interest and inquired about how they could apply this to their respective entities.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to updates on the Lifelong Learning Strategy in Malta. The strategy focuses on providing continuous learning opportunities for all adults, ensuring that they are equipped with the skills necessary to navigate an ever-changing economic and technological landscape.

Grazio Grixti, Director at DLE, shared progress on the strategy's implementation, placing emphasis on the importance of creating inclusive learning environments that cater to different types of learners. The goal is to make lifelong learning accessible to everyone, supporting individuals in both their personal and professional growth. The discussion also covered how Malta can better align its national strategy with broader EU-wide frameworks to ensure consistency and maximum impact.

Another key topic of discussion was the National Basic Skills Guidelines for Adults Preliminary Market Consultation that was issued in December 2024 on the ePPS procurement portal. This initiative had been discussed during the previous working group meetings and through the working group members’ feedback a PMC document was finally created so that Guidelines for the education of Basic Skills in Malta are designed. Project Manager Tom Borg provided updates on the development of these guidelines, which will shall improve the quality of training available to adult learners, particularly those who may not have had access to traditional education, working towards creating a more inclusive and equitable learning environment that meets the diverse needs of its adult population.

A good part of the meeting was dedicated to a group workshop focused on informal, non-formal, and community-based learning opportunities for adults in Malta. These types of learning are vital for individuals who may not be able or wish to engage in traditional educational pathways but still want to improve their skills and knowledge. Also as part of the National Strategy DLE has issued a 2^nd PMC in December about a Study about Innovative Learning Environments and Programmes for Adults in Malta. 

Participants discussed how to enhance these learning opportunities and make them more accessible to all adults. The various representatives shared the learning opportunities available through their respective organisations and discussed how they could collaborate to expand access to such learning opportunities. This exchange which shall also help with the study allowed attendees to learn from one another about the different programmes offered across different sectors and communities. The collaboration helped identify gaps in existing offerings and areas for improvement. 

Participants also discussed the need for a central repository of non-formal and informal learning opportunities to make it easier for individuals to find the training they need. Another important takeaway from the workshop was the recognition that lifelong learning can take many forms beyond formal education. It can include workplace training, community initiatives, and self-directed learning. By expanding these opportunities, Malta can create a culture of continuous learning that supports adults in their personal and professional development.

One of the meeting’s main takeaways was the importance of collaboration in driving the upskilling agenda forward. The discussions highlighted the need for continued efforts from all stakeholders: government, employers, education providers, and citizens, to ensure that Malta’s workforce is prepared for the challenges of the future. The meeting also served as a reminder of how Malta's ongoing efforts align with the broader goals set by the Pact for Skills and other EU initiatives. In 2025 more Upskilling Pathways working group meetings are planned to be held and more updates about these shall be posted on EPALE.