Outgoing rector Juanito Camilleri this morning called on students to open their minds and fight hatred, intolerance and prejudice, through learning and knowledge.

Opening the academic year, Prof Camilleri told students: "Don't accept everything that is said, open your minds and don't continue to live within the constraints of a small island".

In his last speech as rector, he asked: "Will we still be known for our hospitality, tolerance, adaptability, our Christian values? Or will these be replaced by xenophobia and myopia?"

More than 3,700 new students embark on a new life at the university today, an increase of more than 250 over last year. This brings the total number of students at the university for this academic year to 11,737 - 5,029 male and 6,708 female. 840 courses are being offered.

A total 2,721 students will be registering for undergraduate courses, while 979 will be reading for postgraduate degrees.

Another 1,051 will be joining Junior College, bringing the total number of students to 2,323.

A total of 612 international students from 71 countries will be pursuing studies at the university this year.

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