On Friday, 2 May 2025, the University of Malta welcomed the Leader of the Opposition, Dr Bernard Grech, for an official visit that included a campus walkabout and meetings focused on student wellbeing and representation. Dr Grech was accompanied by the Shadow Minister for Education, Hon. Justin Schembri.
During his visit, Dr Grech met with students informally across campus and held discussions with both the outgoing and incoming executives of the (KSU). He also held a private meeting with the Rector at the Rector’s Office, centring on issues related to student wellbeing, mental health, and university life.
A highlight of the meeting was his visit to the UM Library. He visited the Melitensia Department, where his own dissertation titled 'Professional Secrecy in Malta' was on display, and also toured the Archives and Rare Books Department, where he viewed historical documents.
The visit followed the KSU Annual General Meeting, which took place on 30 April at Sir Temi Zammit Hall. Shortly after the AGM concluded, SDM – Studenti Demokristjani Maltin announced the successful election of 11 candidates from its team to the new KSU Executive, marking a vote of confidence from the student body.
The newly elected KSU Executive for 2025–2026 is as follows:
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President: Gerard Zammit Young
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Vice President for Internal Affairs: Jan Proschek
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Vice President for External Affairs: Julian Azzopardi
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Secretary General: Maya Debono
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Finance Officer: Daniele Formosa
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Public Relations Officer: Elena Sissons
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Media and Design Officer: Enrique Mangion
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Student and International Affairs Officer: Martina Debono
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Social Policy Officer: Michael Spiteri
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Culture and Entertainment Coordinator: Gianluca Xuereb
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Culture and Entertainment Officer: Aidan Drakard
In a statement, SDM affirmed its ongoing commitment:
"As SDM, we will continue to work tirelessly to represent and empower you, the student. Our promise remains firm: to represent you with dedication and hard work."
Dr Grech commented:
"Our country must continue to invest in the education of our children. And it will be a priority for us to ensure that academics serve as a driving force for strengthening society — especially for young people, who are both the present and the future of our nation."
View the reel posted on the occasion .
The visit also reinforced the importance of open dialogue between national leaders and student representatives, especially as the new KSU Executive begins its term of service soon.
