PN expects stronger commitment to education from Government through more resources, investment and a clear long-term plan

Malta’s economy has continued to grow in recent years, yet investment in education has failed to keep pace. This is not simply a lack of ambition: it is a political choice that is leaving our children, educators and schools behind.

According to Eurostat, in 2023 Malta spent 4.1% of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) on education, below the EU average of 4.7%. This figure measures Government expenditure across the education sector. Although education accounts for a relatively high share of total Government spending, Malta still invests less in education, relative to the size of its economy, than the EU average.

Other Eurostat statistics, covering public expenditure from early childhood education through to tertiary education, place Malta at 3.4% of GDP — the third lowest rate in the EU.

This is not a result we can accept. If the economy has grown, investment in education should grow with it, not fall behind. Every euro not invested in schools, educators, student support and the quality of teaching is a missed opportunity for the next generation.

The real question is therefore this: in light of the growth of the Maltese economy, why is the Government not investing more of the wealth being created in our children, our educators and our schools?

The Opposition is calling for a clear commitment: more resources for education, a long-term plan for schools and educators, and investment that matches the country’s ambitions. Malta cannot continue to boast about economic growth while allowing education to lag behind.

It is time for education to become a genuine national priority — not merely in words, but through the Government’s budgetary choices and concrete action.

Jerome Caruana Cilia
Shadow Minister for Education and Citizenship

Adrian Delia
Shadow Minister for Finance

26.08.2026