This is a copy of the communication sent from Rector to all graduands regarding the conferment of degrees and diplomas 2020.

Dear Graduand

I am very much aware that you are eagerly waiting for information about this year’s Graduation Ceremonies.

The current public health situation related to COVID-19 presents several challenges to all of us.  We are required to abide by the directions of the Public Health Authorities which stipulate that not more than 100 persons can congregate in an indoor venue for events such as Graduation Ceremonies. Considering that over 3500 graduands are involved and in order to keep the number of ceremonies manageable (about 39 in number), the only way in which these could have been held was to exclude family and friends from physically attending the events.

We have consulted with KSU who, in turn, discussed the matter with representatives of all the student organisations. The majority of student societies were not at all happy that parents and family members of graduands would not have been able to attend the ceremonies  in person. Clearly, in this matter, the student voice is of paramount importance as the occasion of their graduation would be pointless unless it met their satisfaction.  For this reason, Senate has decided to postpone this year’s ceremonies to a time when they can be held, in the same manner and with the same solemnity as in previous years but in a safe and secure way. 

All graduands will formally be declared as graduating later on this month and their degree or diploma scroll will be dated the 20th  November 2020.  You will shortly be informed when you may pick up your scroll and the Diploma Supplement from the University. When graduation ceremonies are eventually held, we shall celebrate each grand occasion and endeavour to make it as special and memorable as the event deserves.

In the meantime, I wish you well in your chosen career or further studies and I trust that you and your families remain safe and in good health.

Professor Alfred J. Vella

Rector