Education's Role in the Socioeconomic Development of Malta

The island of Malta, a nonaligned power, received full independence from Great Britain in 1964. Malta's consequent classification as a developing nation compelled its government to initiate many changes in its political, social, and economic ideologies. Central to its efforts for redevelopment was a stronger emphasis on expansion of its international educational environment, which included vocational, technical, and academic training. The island has continued to prepare and maintain itself to accommodate the emerging multinational business community, recognizing the importance and impact it would have on the country's future. In post-secondary education, emphasis was placed on career-oriented (work-study) programs, and included the mastery of four foreign languages. In its search for economic, social, and political stability, Malta's destiny was strongly influenced by situational factors--societal, cultural, religious, foreign, and political. Viewing Malta as a case study, this volume sheds light on the functioning of an educational system in a developing nation, demonstrates education's role in improving a nation's socioeconomic system, and supports economic theories that maintain that investment in education is a natural tool for economic development. It also provides information on approaches and techniques other countries use to resolve their educational problems and adds to the knowledge of international and business education.