Gozo’s fully electric bus fleet records 11% rise in passenger numbers
One month after the full electrification of Gozo’s public transport network, the island’s bus service has recorded more than 332,000 passenger journeys across over 16,220 trips, highlighting strong public uptake of the new zero-emission fleet. This represents an 11% increase in passenger numbers compared to the same period last year. Gozo has become the first island in Europe to operate a fully electric public transport fleet, following the largest investment ever made in the island’s public transport system. The figures cover the first month since Malta Public Transport completed the transition from diesel-powered buses to a fully electric fleet, supported by dedicated charging infrastructure across the island. Beyond growing passenger demand, the initiative is also delivering significant environmental benefits. The new fleet is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by around 1,300 tonnes each year, while providing residents and visitors with a cleaner, quieter and more sustainable public transport service. (Newsbook)
Kurt Farrugia appointed CEO of Residency Malta
Former Transport Malta chief executive Kurt Farrugia has been appointed as the new CEO of Residency Malta, taking up the role from 1 July. The appointment follows the death of the agency’s former chief executive, Jonathan Cardona, and comes after Farrugia’s departure from Transport Malta. Announcing the appointment, the Education Ministry described Farrugia as a public sector leader with extensive experience in strategic management and government administration. Before leading Transport Malta, he served as Head of Government Communications and spokesperson to the Prime Minister, as well as Chief Executive Officer of Malta Enterprise. The ministry also paid tribute to the late Jonathan Cardona, recognising his commitment and vision in expanding Residency Malta’s operations and helping establish the agency as a key player in promoting Malta as a destination for residency programmes. (The Times of Malta)
Professor Frank Bezzina officially assumes role as University Rector
Professor Frank Bezzina has officially begun his tenure as Rector of the University of Malta following a formal ceremony marking the handover from Professor Alfred J. Vella, who led the institution for the past decade. Held at the Jesuits’ Church in Valletta, the ceremony was attended by President Myriam Spiteri Debono, university deans, academics and other distinguished guests. The Malta Philharmonic Orchestra provided the musical programme under the direction of Maestro Hermann Farrugia Frantz. In his farewell address, Professor Vella reflected on the university’s progress over the last ten years, highlighting that around 3,600 students now graduate annually, while one in four students comes from overseas. He also referred to improvements in international university rankings and major infrastructure projects, including a new academic building on Dun Karm Psaila Street. (The Malta Independent)
