Eastern Mediterranean University ‘scouts’ have been in Malta to see exactly how the island is managing to attract so many English language students.

Apart from Britain, Malta was where most students went to learn English, Majid Hashemipour, the North Cyprus University’s vice rector responsible for international and administrative affairs, told international journalists during a briefing session on campus in Famagusta, today.

“We are offering lower tuition rates and better quality to compete. We also have our own private beach,” Prof. Hashemipour said.

He did acknowledge, though, that Malta’s geographical location and air communications were an attraction to potential students both in terms of air fares and travel time.

Because of the political situation – the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is recognised only by Turkey – one will have to fly to Turkey, usually Istanbul, and then onto Ercan Airport, in Lefkosa (or north Nicosia), which often means a long wait for the connection flight.

The Eastern Mediterranean University runs an English Language Programme between June and September.

English as a foreign language has grown as an industry in Malta, which last year attracted up to 85,000 students who spent a total of €145 million. There are about 40 English language schools on the island.