Malta’s commitment to SDG4 : inclusive education

Abstract

The UNESCO Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030 include SDG4 quality of education and equality of access to education, and lifelong learning opportunities for all. This sustainable development goal is important considering the universal right to education as laid out in conventions and treaties. In this paper Malta’s commitment to inclusive education is explored through a look at its education policy as well as through a comparison with that of other European countries. Common themes across policy are analyzed for their contribution and effectiveness to quality and equality of access, and to attaining the sustainable development education goal of inclusivity. These are co-teaching and collaboration, programs for at-risk students, high teaching quality and self-evaluation and accountability. Findings revealed the strengths and weaknesses in Maltese inclusive education policy and how the common themes among countries can be effective toward creating a comprehensive inclusive education system.