MTA re-launches ‘Merħba’ Training Programme

The Industry Human Resources Development Unit within the MTA is responsible for the development of national human resource development initiatives for the tourism industry. This is done through promoting a service culture within the industry thereby raising service standards; through building a strong liaison with employment, education and training institutions on actions required for the industry; and through the implementation of EU funded projects relating to human resources development.

Press release

Following last year’s success, where over 954 key tourism front-liners were trained in customer care and service culture, the MTA’s Industry HR Development Unit will this week be opening applications for the ‘Merħba’ Tourism Awareness and Customer Care Training Programme. Interested applicants can apply by calling directly on 2205 4000.

The ‘Merħba’ training programme is aimed at improving customer service knowledge, ability and skills of front-line operational staff in tourism establishments and transport operators. Different to the previous year the MTA will also be hosting specific programmes for Gozo as well as individuals employed or seeking employment as Group Leaders in the EFL sector.

The training part of the programme will be conducted by MISCO who was recently awarded the service contract by public tender. Training will start end-March, whilst a publicity campaign is being scheduled for mid-March. It is anticipated that over 650 front-liners will be trained through this Programme.

Merħba Training Programme modules were designed in line with the MTA’s objective to encourage, develop and implement training programmes for the provision of a better service by tourism front liners and support services. The modules also follow an important objective of the Tourism Policy for the Maltese Islands 2007-2011, whereby a hospitable attitude can contribute towards the Maltese Islands competitive advantage. The programme also ensures each module is in line with the MTA’s three core values, namely Hospitality, Diversity and Heritage. A three hour professional guided tour will be held at the end of the programme. The tour will include a visit to heritage sites on the respective island. The aim is to provide an opportunity for participants to know more about the tourist offer in Malta and Gozo, knowledge which they can pass on to tourists during their work.

The ‘Merħba’ Training Programme is co-funded by the European Social Fund and all training programmes provided are free of charge. This is part of ESF 7 - Tourism and Support Services Training Programme which aimed to provide for a holistic approach towards training and human resource development in tourism and tourism-support services. By the end of the project the MTA would have targeted over 1,500 front-liners in the tourism sector.

Further information can be obtained from MTA's Industry HR Development Unit on 22915125 or e-mail training@visitmalta.com

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