Specialised translation and interpretation department at university

In view of the growing demand of Maltese translators and interpreters, particularly since the Maltese language became an official EU language, the University of Malta has decided to open a new specialised department offering tailor-made courses in this area as from the next academic year.

The new department will form part of the Faculty of Arts and will offer full-time courses.

Speaking to The Times, Joseph Eynaud, deputy dean of the faculty, said that following the success obtained through a part-time Master of Arts degree evening course, launched in October 2003, the University administration has decided to redesign the courses offered in order to provide a firm foundation in the translation and interpretation disciplines.

"The course is now being given an enhanced structure, with full-time lecturers in distinct areas of translation and interpreting studies. As from the next academic year, undergraduates coming from any faculty may register for a postgraduate course that is exclusively job oriented," Prof. Eynaud said.

It is estimated that the EU institutions need about 125 translators on a full-time basis in order to provide all the Maltese translation services required. So far, many of the Maltese translators recruited are still on a temporary or contract basis and the EU is planning to organise future competitions for more Maltese recruits.

Translators within the EU civil services are considered to have a very attractive job with salaries starting at €4,000 (Lm1,739) net a month, together with other benefits such as free schooling and family medical expenses.

However, the highest need is by far in the interpretation department. Until now there is only one full-time Maltese interpreter working with the EU and another few engaged as part-timers.

Prof. Eynaud said the University's new initiative is intended to provide more human resources in these new areas.

The new Translation and Interpretation Department is planning to offer full-time postgraduate day courses leading to a diploma and masters level.

The translation component of the course will primarily focus on working with two main languages, Maltese and English. However, there will also be opportunities for studying other languages such as French and Italian.