Last Tuesday, KSU felt compelled to address an issue that has arisen within the University of Malta.
The ongoing directives aimed at pressuring negotiating parties to finalise the new collective agreement has instead led to a number of significant issues for university staff. These issues have in turn began to impact the educational quality of students during the critical period before the January assessment period.
KSU rejects the decisions made by UHM, acknowledging that there is a pressing need to highlight the collective statement among the student community. Due to this, KSU is advocating for a conducive working environment for university staff, emphasising its direct connection to the educational experience of students.
An area of particular concern has been the delay in the establishing of a collective agreement for university staff. The agreement had originally been expected to be in place by December 2021. The lack of this agreement has understandably led to frustration among staff members, and this sentiment has now trickled down to impact the overall learning experience of students. With this in mind, KSU has called on all stakeholders to carefully consider the long-term implications of the situation and the impact it will have on the quality of education provided by the institution.
KSU has emphasised their commitment to fostering a cooperative atmosphere. However, the impact on the one stakeholder not involved in the decision making process – the students – cannot be ignored. Students have expressed that the directives have negatively impacted their lectures, practicals, and assignments. This poses a threat to the educational well-being of students, especially as it is happening so close to the assessment period, a time when students’ mental health should be of great importance.
In a plea to all stakeholders involved, KSU urges a swift and amicable resolution to these negotiations, recognising the urgency and paramount importance of safeguarding the quality of education for the students at university.
As of right now, no updates have been released, however, it is hoped that negotiations will close soon without affecting the soon to begin examination period.