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7 maltatoday | SUNDAY • 21 DECEMBER 2025 COMMERCIAL MCAST opens its library to the general public to borrow books MCAST has launched a new initiative that allows members of the public to borrow books from its library, effectively combining the functions of an academic library and a public learning resource. The scheme emphasises the College's focus on lifelong learning and com- munity engagement. MCAST had already opened its doors to the public to use its library facilities, but this ex- tended initiative now allows ex- ternal who are not staff or stu- dentsl users to borrow from a collection of over 65,000 phys- ical publications. This includes academic textbooks, technical manuals, professional reference works and research materials. The library also provides access to a wide selection of e- books and online journals. The initiative was launched during an event held on 17 De- cember at the Library at the Paola Campus, presented as MCAST's Christmas gift to the public for 2026. The event was attended by the President of the Board of Governors, Horace Laudi, MCAST management, staff, and students, as well as members of the Friends of the MCAST Library, who already use the facility. Speaking at the launch, the Principal and Chief Executive Officer Stephen Vella said the initiative reflects both innova- tion and purpose. ""This initiative welcomes the community into a dynam- ic learning space. Though it required careful planning and investment, it is guided by our belief that learning should hap- pen at every stage of life. By opening our library, we ensure that knowledge is shared re- sponsibly with all."" He emphsaised that MCAST is not just investing in buildings alone but more importantly in talent and people, in those who come together in these spaces as learners, makers, and inno- vators, driven by the desire to make a difference. Deputy Principal Dr Tatja- na Chircop said the initiative strengthens public engage- ment. ""By opening our library, we show that knowledge is for everyone. Knowledge should not be confined, but shared openly and responsibly. This is an invitation to dialogue be- tween the institution and soci- ety. An institution's true meas- ure is what it contributes to society."" The initiative builds on invest- ments in the MCAST Library such as a new Library Manage- ment System. MCAST Library Director Liza Franco explained how MCAST invested in cat- aloguing, access control, and security to keep resources safe and accessible, supporting the College's educational mission. To use the library, members of the public should apply through the Friends of the MCAST Li- brary scheme by contacting the MCAST Library in person, by phone, or via the library's website: https://mcast.edu.mt/ friends-of-mcast-library/" Staff will guide applicants through eligibility require- ments, registration steps, and borrowing conditions. 50% plus of BOV employees enrol in Voluntary Occupational Scheme BANK of Valletta (BOV) is cele- brating the third anniversary of its Voluntary Occupational Pen- sion Scheme (BOV VOPS). With more than half of the Bank's employees having already sub- scribed to the scheme, this is a strong vote of confidence in the bank and an indication that more people are taking their re- tirement seriously. Introduced in 2022, BOV VOPS was launched as an em- ployee benefit, supplementing the state pension and helping employees retain their desired standard of living once in re- tirement. The scheme, which is manufactured by MAPFRE MSV Life p.l.c., has become a corner- stone of BOV's people strategy and a key element of its employ- er brand. A standout feature of the scheme is the Bank's finan- cial commitment, matching an employee's contribution up to €2,400 per year. This is a long- term commitment that contin- ues to set BOV apart as an em- ployer of choice. Upon joining the Bank, employees may also transfer their existing workplace pension into BOV VOPS, which is managed through a lifestyle investment strategy, based on employees' age, ensuring risk management over time. Speaking on the three-year mark of the pension scheme, Si- mon Azzopardi, Chief Personal and Wealth Officer, said, "This third anniversary is an important milestone for BOV. The fact that more than 50% of our colleagues are subscribed shows how deep- ly our people value long-term fi- nancial wellbeing. The strong fi- nancial contribution being made by the Bank sends a clear mes- sage that BOV stands shoulder to shoulder with its employees as they invest in their future." Ray Debattista, Chief Peo- ple and Culture Officer, added, "The success of the Voluntary Occupational Pension Scheme demonstrates that relevant, for- ward-looking benefits resonate with our people and strengthen the Bank's position as an em- ployer of choice in Malta. Three years on, this scheme continues to strengthen our values of put- ting our people first." A call to employers Bank of Valletta encourag- es other employers in Malta to introduce their own voluntary occupational pension schemes. The Bank is willing to offer prac- tical support, sharing insights from its experience in launch- ing and embedding the scheme, and providing guidance on im- plementation and employee en- gagement. The scheme helps employers in their efforts to prioritise em- ployee financial well-being and become more attractive employ- ers.