Malta campus impresses Indian exploratory education mission

The chaplain services and the Degree Plus programme, where students get to study subjects outside their chosen curriculum, were considered bonuses for attracting Indian nationals to the University of Malta, which is trying to promote itself in India.

Many of the world's universities had forgotten these services and programmes and should emulate them, members of the first high-profile education delegation from India said.

"When students leave their homes to study in a foreign country, there tends to be a gap in their emotions and a conflict between what they should and should not do. The availability of a chaplain service makes all the difference," said Ashok Pandey, Ahlcon International School principal.

Other universities focused only on the academic aspect, meaning students lost out on certain skills that could take them forward in life, he continued.

Mr Pandey, part of the delegation of heads of private senior secondary schools that visited Malta to familiarise themselves with the island and its University, was convinced of its potential - as yet untapped - to attract students from so far afield.

"We are absolutely convinced about the quality of life in Malta and its campus."

Cultural differences between India and Malta may spring to mind but the similarities were even stronger for the delegation. These stemmed mainly from the British-based tradition of both countries and were present in India's education system.

The University has about 1,000 international students but the reason to recruit more is not financial, said Stefania Fabri, director of the University's International and EU Office.

"We are constantly trying to increase the spread of nationalities but we also have to see which countries are producing good students," she said, adding that the Indians made the grade.

It was a known fact that they are well-prepared and would match the standards.

The University employs a marketing officer, positioned at the Maltese High Commission in India, highlighting its commitment to and investment in promoting itself in that region.

The setting up of the University's overseas base over a year ago was an initiative sparked by the Maltese High Commissioner in India, Wilfred Kennely and was considered to be crucial.

Mr Kennely has been researching and visiting schools and establishing contacts.

Although the University is not looking for big numbers from India, such initiatives opened the way for contacts with research institutes and the exchange of lecturers. "It is early days and a learning situation for both but the plan is to invite professors over too," Ms Fabri said.

"The idea is to reach out in a slow, steady manner. It is not about quantity and there are no goals to have a number of students by a certain time. It is about building relationships and learning."

For Mr Pandey, working through the High Commission meant instant credibility about the country being considered, as opposed to going through other intermediary channels and agencies.

Despite the eligibility of Indian students, the efforts and structure were lacking, he said. Now, raising awareness about this education destination in about 12 schools has already been well received.

"Indian students are seeking education abroad and if the University of Malta offers what is available in others and more it is logical that it should be known across our continent," Mr Panday said.