Juanito Camilleri is the favourite to earn a second term as University rector, The Sunday Times has learnt.

Prof. Camilleri has accepted the Prime Minister’s invitation to be the government-backed candidate for the rector’s election when the University Council meets in March, according to sources.

Other nominations for the post will be accepted, but considering that half the council’s members are appointed by the government as well as the strong support Prof. Camilleri has among the academic community and the student body, it is unlikely that the March election will throw up any surprises.

In recent months, Prof. Camilleri is believed to have been headhunted by the private sector with lucrative offers the University could never compete with, sources said, though he is expected to remain at the University.

Prof. Camilleri’s tenure as rector has been characterised by a major expansion and reform programme, as well as the odd controversy.

Among others, the Faculty of the Built Environment has replaced the Faculty of Architecture and Civil Engineering.

Two new faculties have been set up, and at its sitting last Thursday, the council approved the upgrading and transformation of the Centre for Communications Technology into a Faculty of Media and Knowledge Sciences.

Since taking office, the University budget has increased, with the number of international students and doctorate students on a steady increase.

In a controversial document posted on the University’s website last December, Prof. Camilleri argued that a fees system for the University could be crucial for the institution to be able to grow.

The rector argued the University should adopt a fees system for all courses as well as scholarships for local and overseas students.