Another Busy and Productive Week at the European Vocational Academy!
It has been another dynamic week at the European Vocational Academy (EVA), with learning and skills development taking place across several areas of vocational education and training.
Our Boatman Course continues to prepare learners with the knowledge and practical skills required for the maritime sector, while Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) training is being delivered both at EVA and directly at our clients’ workplaces. These activities reflect our commitment to promoting safer working environments and equipping employees with essential workplace competencies.
Meanwhile, our Maltese Bakery Course has entered an exciting new phase, with learners now undertaking their apprenticeships and putting their knowledge into practice in real working environments.
At EVA, we believe that effective vocational education brings together theory, practical learning and direct engagement with industry. By working closely with employers and learners, we continue to bridge industry and education, supporting the development of skills that matter.
EVA – We Bridge Industry & Education With Your Future.
Together for Mental Health at Work – EU-OSHA Campaign launched in Bilbao
The European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA), organised on 29-30 September 2026 a Campaign Kick-off meeting in Bilbao Together for Mental Health at Work.
More than 50 delegates from EU-Member States attended the meeting. EfVET was represented by its President Professor Joachim James Calleja who was also one of the keynote panellists at the opening session of the seminar.
Professor Calleja spoke about the theme Together for mental health at work from the vocational education perspective stressing the need for young people, particularly apprentices, to be trained on how to stay healthy, resilient and connected in workplaces. He also referred to the importance of training for mental health for trainers and mentors of apprentices making work-based learning a genuine partnership between employers, learners and VET institutions. VET can be the bridge between the workplace and the employers offering opportunities for on-the-job training for workers and learners. Professor Calleja said, “stress, fatigue, excessive workload, poor organisation, harassment or lack of control can interact with physical risks. It is important that places of work create positive environments in which productivity and well-being compliment each other…it is through training that VET can support Companies”.
Professor Calleja is also Head of the European Vocational Academy currently providing back-to-back training programmes in occupational health and safety to many Maltese and foreign workers in Malta particularly those working in the construction industry.
Other keynote speakers at the meeting represented the Enterprise Europe Network as well as the European workers’, employers’, governments and the Commission’s perspectives. William Cockburn Salazar, Director of EU-OSHA opened the meeting recalling the two-year preparation of EU-OSHA of this Europe-wide campaign to raise awareness of the importance of mental health in all workplaces. Workshop sessions focused on how to organise high-impact national campaigns, best practices for using the campaign’s communication tools and on building strong partnerships and stakeholder networks at national and EU-level.
Our Erasmus+ internship in EVA
During our three-week Erasmus+ internship at EVA in Malta, we got the chance to experience what it is like to work in a real company abroad. We come from From the very beginning, everyone was kind, friendly and welcoming and always willing to help us when we needed it, which made us feel comfortable and part of the team.
Most of our work involved administration, working with spreadsheets, organising information and helping with the website. Working at EVA gave us the opportunity to try different things, improve our skills and take on new responsibilities. At the same time, we could experience Maltese culture and spend time together outside of work. The sunny weather, friendly people and unforgettable experiences made us fall in love with Malta and gave us many great memories that we will take home with us.
Overall, our time at EVA was really enjoyable and useful experience, and we are glad we got the chance to be part of the company.
Magdalena Hinke, Aneta Havránková and Julie Červeňáková from the Secondary School of Business, Applied Arts and Design of Pilsen, Nerudova from the Czech Republic
The Head of the Academy participated at a forum organised by the SEV Technical Academy of Athens on Future of Skills and Competences for 2035. As President of EfVET he also took part at the EfVET Board meeting.
This morning two teachers from Spain visited the European Vocational Academy (EVA) to explore mobility programmes between the IES Pérez Comendador in Plasencia, Spain and EVA. During their visits to EVA they discussed the Maltese system of education and the benefits of mobility both for students and the teaching staff. As a matter of fact, the two entities will be exploring the possibility of holding Business English courses for members of staff of the IES Pérez Comendador The picture also features three trainees currently spending three weeks at EVA. They are Magdalena Hinke, Aneta Havrankova and Julie Cervenakova from the Secondary School of Business, Applied Arts and Design of Pilsen, Nerudova from the Czech Republic. Trainees regularly spend time at EVA supporting the work of the Academy especially on administrative and social media matters.
EVA and MDA Strengthen Commitment to Safer and Healthier Workplaces Through Occupational Health & Safety Training
Malta – 13 August 2026
The European Vocational Academy (EVA), in collaboration with the Malta Developers Association (MDA), has successfully delivered another Occupational Health & Safety (OHS) training session, further strengthening their shared commitment to promoting a stronger culture of safety across Malta’s workplaces.
The latest training session brought together participants who are developing essential knowledge and practical awareness of workplace health and safety, with particular emphasis on identifying hazards, understanding risks, applying preventive measures and promoting responsible practices in the workplace.
For EVA and MDA, OHS training is about much more than meeting regulatory or professional requirements. It is an investment in people, businesses and the future of Malta’s workforce. Well-trained employees and employers are better equipped to recognise potential dangers before they become incidents, contribute to safer working environments and encourage a culture where health and safety becomes everyone’s responsibility.
The continued success of these training sessions demonstrates the value of the partnership between EVA and MDA in responding to the real needs of industry. By bringing education closer to the workplace and combining vocational learning with practical industry relevance, the initiative provides participants with knowledge that can be applied directly in their professional environments.
“Every training session represents another step towards building safer workplaces and a more safety-conscious workforce,” said the Head of the Academy of EVA. “Our objective is not simply to deliver training, but to create added value for participants, employers and the wider community by developing competence that can make a genuine difference. Our courses build skills, strengthen workplaces and create safer futures.”
The partnership also reflects a forward-looking approach to workforce development, where professional competence, responsibility and workplace safety go hand in hand.
EVA and MDA remain committed to expanding opportunities for quality OHS training and supporting industry in developing a skilled, knowledgeable and safety-conscious workforce.
European Vocational Academy Celebrates Success of First Bakery Course Cohort
The European Vocational Academy (EVA) proudly hosted a visit by its Directors, Mr Reuben Debono, Ms Maria Bugeja, and Mr Andrea Cassar, to the Food Laboratory in Tal-Ħandaq, Qormi, where students are currently undertaking EVA’s inaugural Bakery Course.
During the visit, the Directors engaged directly with students and lecturing staff, gaining first-hand insight into the learning experience and the progress achieved since the course commenced in April 2026. The highlight of the visit was the opportunity for the Directors to taste a selection of pastries specially prepared by the students, showcasing both their technical skills and creativity.
The visit marked a significant milestone for the cohort, who have demonstrated strong commitment and enthusiasm throughout the programme. Students expressed their satisfaction with the course, highlighting not only the professional skills acquired but also the enriching Maltese cultural experience embedded within the training.
This comprehensive programme, accredited at MQF Level 4 and carrying 60 ECTS credits, combines theoretical instruction with hands-on training. A key feature of the course is its strong emphasis on work-based learning, including practical experience at Maypole, one of Malta’s leading bakery and food production companies.
The course will conclude in December 2026 and includes an apprenticeship phase running from mid-September to mid-December, providing students with valuable industry exposure and enhancing their employability prospects.
Speaking during the visit, the Directors commended the students for their dedication and the teaching staff for their professionalism and commitment. They emphasized that this first cohort represents an important achievement for EVA, reinforcing its mission of delivering high-quality, industry-led vocational education.
The success of this programme reflects EVA’s continued efforts to bridge education and industry, offering learners meaningful opportunities to develop skills that are both relevant and in demand within the labour market. The Directors were accompanied by the Head of EVA Professor James Calleja and the Sales and Programme Coordinator Demir Akangol.
During our Erasmus+ internship in Malta, we had the opportunity to work at the European Vocational Academy (EVA). We were able to edit and upload pictures for their Instagram page and website, which gave us valuable hands-on experience with social media content and visual branding. The majority of our internship was spent designing and editing brochures for various projects. This was a creative task, and it aligned perfectly with the requirements of our school, allowing us to apply what we had learned in a real professional context. Every member of the staff was extremely friendly, welcoming, and helpful, which created a supportive and motivating work environment. Overall, this internship gave us the chance to grow both personally and professionally.
EVA Summer in Action – Skills, Innovation & Industry Connection
This summer, the European Vocational Academy (EVA) continues to deliver high-impact, industry-driven training from its premises at Corradino Industrial Park.
Nautical Licence Programme in full swing
One of our flagship summer courses, the Nautical Licence programme, is currently underway. Delivered over 24 contact hours, it combines essential knowledge in navigation, Fire Prevention, and First Aid. Learners also benefit from hands-on practical training at our Rinella hub, ensuring real-world readiness. With over 13 specialised maritime programmes offered throughout the year, EVA is a leading provider in this sector.
Maltese Bakery Level 4 – Learning by doing
Now in its fourth month, our accredited MQF Level 4 Maltese Bakery programme continues to blend theory with strong work-based learning. Practical sessions at the Tal-Ħandaq Food Laboratory and industry exposure at Maypole Bakery one of EVA’s key shareholders, are giving learners authentic, professional experience rooted in Malta’s culinary heritage.
AI for Leaders – From training to transformation
Earlier this week, EVA welcomed back participants from our AI for Leaders and Managers programmes (May & June cohorts) for an exclusive follow-up session. Led by KAIZEN expert Younes Boujoudar, the workshop combined Lean methodologies with applied AI tools helping leaders translate knowledge into real organisational impact.
Looking to upskill or reskill?
EVA offers a growing portfolio of flexible micro-credentials designed for professionals who want targeted, practical, and recognised learning pathways.
From Skills to Success: Bakery Training in Action at EVA
At the European Vocational Academy (EVA), learning goes beyond the classroom. Our bakery students put their knowledge into practice, developing professional skills in a hands-on training environment designed to reflect real industry standards.
During their practical bakery sessions, learners work on the preparation, baking and presentation of a variety of products, combining technical knowledge with creativity, precision and teamwork. From carefully prepared fruit tarts to beautifully finished baked creations, each product reflects the skills, dedication and progress achieved throughout the training.
These practical sessions give learners the opportunity to strengthen essential competencies such as ingredient preparation, accurate measuring and mixing, baking techniques, hygiene practices, time management and professional presentation. Working together in a real bakery environment also helps participants build confidence and become better prepared for the demands of the industry.
My internship at the European Vocational Academy in Malta was a highly enjoyable and enriching experience. During my time there, I gained valuable practical knowledge and improved many of my professional skills. One of the highlights was the trust we received, allowing us to work independently and take responsibility for our tasks. The work was varied and interesting, making every day both productive and motivating. Whenever we needed support, the staff were always kind, patient, and happy to answer our questions in detail. Their welcoming attitude created a positive working environment from the very beginning. I would gladly recommend this internship to anyone looking for meaningful experience and personal growth.
Amelie Brandes
My internship at the European Vocational Academy in Malta has been an extremely rewarding and valuable experience. I especially enjoyed the variety of tasks, as we were given the opportunity to work independently, take responsibility, and develop both professionally and personally. At the same time, we were constantly challenged in a positive way, which made the work interesting and engaging every day. Whenever we had questions, the team was always friendly, patient, and willing to provide clear and detailed explanations. From the very beginning, we felt welcomed and supported. I would highly recommend this internship to anyone looking to gain practical experience while learning in a motivating and enjoyable environment.
Leonie da silva Brill
The European Vocational Academy, in collaboration with the KAIZEN Institute, successfully delivered a two-day intensive training programme titled “AI for Leaders and Managers” at the Verdala Wellness Hotel in Rabat, Malta.
The seminar, led by AI expert Younes Boujoudar, brought together a number of senior leaders and managers from a diverse range of public and private sector organisations. The training adopted a highly practical, hands-on approach, with participants actively engaging in the use of the Claude AI platform to explore real-world applications.
What set this programme apart was its strong focus on contextualisation. Sessions were tailored to address specific challenges faced by participants in their respective workplaces, ensuring immediate relevance and impact.
Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with the training receiving very high evaluation scores for its relevance, delivery, and practical value. Attendees particularly appreciated the interactive format and the opportunity to directly apply AI tools to their professional contexts.
This initiative reflects a shared commitment by the European Vocational Academy and the KAIZEN Institute to empower leaders with cutting-edge skills and to support organisations in navigating the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
The following is an evaluation from one of the trainees at the European Vocational Academy and a picture with the Head of the academy Prof. Joachim James Calleja and the Administrative Executive, Andrea Estefania Salgado Castro:
„During my four-month internship, I had the opportunity to gain valuable professional experience while also getting to know the culture and everyday life in Malta. Beyond developing practical skills, I learned a lot about the local work environment, communication style, and the way teams collaborate here. Working in an international setting allowed me to broaden my perspective, adapt to new approaches, and grow both professionally and personally. What made this experience especially memorable was the warm and welcoming atmosphere within the company. The people here were incredibly friendly and supportive, making my time not only educational but also truly enjoyable. This experience gave me insights not only into the industry itself, but also into the people, values, and work culture that make working in Malta unique.“
Hannah Rottmann, Germany
The following is an evaluation from one of the trainees at the European Vocational Academy:
“During my 4 weeks Erasmus+ internship in Malta, which I am completing as part of my retraining programme, the visit from my tutors Mrs. Rocha and Mr. Lange from Cologne, Germany, was an absolute highlight. The photo captures this special moment in the bright entrance area of my host company EVA (European Vocational Academy) with the Head of the academy: Prof. Joachim James Calleja. It was a great opportunity to show them my workplace as I transition into this new career. We discussed my daily tasks, progress, and experiences on the island. My tutors got a firsthand impression of the company and spoke directly with the Head of the academy. This meeting was highly motivating and highlighted the great value of the Erasmus+ programme in fostering professional growth and intercultural exchange. It truly demonstrated how smoothly the collaboration between my home institution and the local company works. This entire experience continues to help me develop both personally and professionally.”
Katharina Buengel
Last week in Brussels, Professor James Calleja President EfVET and Head European Vocational Academy, had the privilege of chairing an Executive Management Team (EMT) meeting, engaging in meaningful discussions on the future of EfVET and of vocational education and training. During his visit, he also inaugurated with all the members of the Secretariat the new EfVET premises, an important milestone for strengthening EfVET’s presence at European level and among over 477 training providers. A highlight was meeting MEP Brigitte van den Berg, where they exchanged views on the challenges faced by European VET providers. It is clear that the voice of training providers must be heard more strongly in EU policymaking. EfVET remains committed to advocating for a more inclusive, responsive, and forward-looking VET ecosystem across Europe. EfVET’s annual conference 2026 will be held between the 23rd and 26th October in Brussels and will explore the theme: Global Citizenship and vocational education: How can VET prepare learners to be citizens of tomorrow?
The European Vocational Academy (EVA) welcomed Eva Rodriguez and Aitana Rodriguez from IES de Vilalonga, Galicia, on 29th May for a productive meeting aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two institutions. The visiting delegation met with Professor James Calleja, Head of EVA, and Ms Andrea Salgado Castro, Administrative Executive, to explore opportunities for collaboration, particularly in the field of mobility programmes.
Discussions focused on creating meaningful exchange opportunities for both students and teachers. Particular attention was given to student mobility in specialised areas such as mechanical engineering, including exposure to industry practices related to oil spill management and environmental response technologies. These experiences are expected to enhance students’ technical competencies while fostering intercultural understanding.
The Spanish delegation also expressed strong interest in continuous professional development opportunities for educators. Areas highlighted included the impact of emerging technologies on teaching and learning, the integration of artificial intelligence in education, and the adoption of innovative pedagogical approaches suited to modern classrooms. EVA presented its expertise in these areas and outlined potential tailored training programmes.
Both institutions reaffirmed their commitment to building a sustainable partnership that promotes excellence in vocational education and training, supports staff development, and equips learners with skills relevant to evolving labour market needs. The meeting concluded with a shared vision of fostering long-term collaboration through Erasmus+ and other European initiatives.
EVA Head addresses Tenerife international conference.
The Head of the European Vocational Academy, Professor Joachim James Calleja was a keynote speaker at an international conference in: La Orotava, Tenerife on 21-22 May 2026 about Fewer Borders, More Talent organised by the Servicio para la Internacionalizacion de la Formacion Profesional y Regimen Especial (SIFPRE), the Government of the Canary Islands and co-financed by the European Union.
Professor Calleja spoke about Prospects of a new EU VET Strategy: Rhetoric versus Reality.
He reviewed the trajectory of the Copenhagen Process as an initiative that achieved 50% of its visionary recommendations. This is due to its soft governance structure, voluntary cooperation, agreements mistaken for implementation and measured intent rather than impact.
With low skilled people in Europe still standing between 60 and 70 million; youth unemployment at 15%, adult learning at 37% when the target for 2025 was 60% and VET mobility at 5.1% compared to an 8% target, Europe should be looking into implementing recommendations and not visions for VET.
Implementation is still an illusion for European VET. Notwithstanding the progress achieved in EU VET since 2002 and the application of European tools such as the EQF and the EUROPASS , several member states require direct support for VET implementation reforms by increasing EU funding, simplifying bureaucracy and sifting energies towards implementation-driven policies.
Professor Calleja stated: “it is time to move from rhetoric to implementation. Europe does not lack vision, tools, declarations and VET research but it lacks the courage and mechanisms to implement and support many member states. We should not be asking what we should do; but rather, why are we not doing it?”
Over 200 educators from the Canary Islands participated. The conference was supported by the students and teachers of the IES La Orotava and the Spanish Ministry of Education. The conference was co-chaired by the Head of SIFPRE Ruth Alvarez Rodrigues and Jorge Damas Chinea a student of the IES VET School in Orotava.
Recap of our 2-day AI Course for Leaders & Managers, organised by the European Vocational Academy and KAIZEN Institute.
CEOs, managers, and business leaders from across Malta came together for a hands-on learning experience focused on understanding and applying AI in the workplace.
Led by Younes Boujoudar, participants explored what AI tools like Claude can and cannot do, how to build custom AI assistants for their business needs, and how to use AI more effectively in their daily work.
Day 2 focused on building real automations using n8n + Claude, where every participant created practical workflows designed to eliminate repetitive tasks and improve efficiency.
Hosted at the Verdala Wellness Hotel, this course marks the start of more exciting AI training programmes coming in June and July.
EVA’S TRAINEESHIP PROGRAMME
The European Vocational Academy (EVA) is currently hosting a number of international trainees during the first semester of the academic year 2025-2026. The participants hail from Ireland, India and Poland. They have been assigned a period of traineeship at EVA from the ZS Drawsko Technician School in Drawsko Pomorskie Poland, the American Business College of Paris and Galway Community College of Further Education, Ireland. At EVA trainees are supporting the Academy in building its own digital marketing strategy, its programmes and the art work of its several brochures giving details of training courses to industry and other individuals interested in upskilling and reskilling. EVA is a industry-driven training provider particularly but not exclusively in the areas of bakery and culinary, marine and health and social care studies. It has more than 100 micro credentials available on demand. It works closely with industry in the design of qualifications that meet the specific skills-set needs in various places of work.
Teachers from Spain visited the European Vocational Academy on the 6th of May to discuss cooperation on ERASMUS mobility programmes.
The delegation of four teachers from Colegio Salesiano Manuel Lora Tamayo in Cádiz, Spain, were awarded an Erasmus+ mobility grant to explore the educational landscape in Malta 🇲🇹.
In their meeting with EVA’s Head of the Academy they said that they have been following EVA’s work and noticed that we offer specialized training in areas very similar to their own, particularly in areas related to upskilling and reskilling of the workforce and in attracting young people for mobility experiences.
During the meeting the teachers explored how EVA works with industry, the work-based learning approaches that the Academy offers as well as a general understanding of the Maltese educational system.
Other similar visit were made by teachers from the Sint-Ursula Instituut in Brussels. EVA hosted their students Rune Gillemot and Dries Basraoui.