University of Malta: Time Is Running Out for Transparency on Roberta Metsola’s Plagiarism Scandal

The University of Malta finds itself in a precarious position as the clock ticks down on a scandal that it has so far failed to address. Roberta Metsola, the European Parliament president and former student of the University of Malta, stands accused of widespread plagiarism in her thesis. Yet, a month after these serious allegations first emerged, the university has failed to issue any formal statement or take any public action to address the issue.

Roberta Metsola

At the heart of this scandal is the question of academic integrity. Roberta Metsola’s thesis, which was initially celebrated and publicly endorsed, is now under intense scrutiny. Multiple reports and investigations have revealed extensive instances of plagiarism, raising doubts about the authenticity of her academic work. It is clear that this is not an isolated incident, but a pattern of misconduct that the university has been slow to confront.

In stark contrast, a recent plagiarism scandal involving Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who studied at Oxford University, provides a compelling comparison. While Carney’s alleged plagiarism was limited to a few instances (10 references), Oxford University acted swiftly, with the professor involved issuing a statement. The public reaction to Oxford’s transparency stands in sharp contrast to the University of Malta’s silence.

Professor Alfred J. Vella

The University of Malta, under the leadership of Rector Prof. Alfred J. Vella, must recognize that the time for delay has passed. The allegations against Metsola are too serious and widespread to be ignored or covered up. The evidence suggests that Metsola’s thesis is riddled with plagiarized material from various sources, and the university cannot continue to sweep this under the rug. A cover-up will not only harm the institution’s reputation but also undermine the integrity of its academic programs.

It is imperative that the University of Malta takes immediate action. The credibility of the institution is on the line, and a failure to act will have long-lasting consequences. An independent, transparent investigation is the only way forward. This investigation must involve respected foreign professors from reputable universities to ensure that the findings are impartial and beyond reproach.

A cover-up at the University of Malta will not be tolerated. Such actions will be exposed by us, and by leading universities around the world, ensuring that the truth will not be silenced. The public deserves transparency, and the academic community demands accountability. Rector Prof. Alfred J. Vella, the time for silence has passed. The world is watching, and the University of Malta must act now to restore its reputation and uphold the values of academic integrity.

The clock is ticking. It’s time for the University of Malta to step up and do the right thing.