The Malta Youth in Agriculture (MaYA) Foundation recently participated in the public consultation meeting on the proposed National Agricultural Policy 2027–2037, organised by the Ministry for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Supply. This policy will serve as the strategic framework guiding Malta’s agricultural sector over the next decade. It will influence future legislation, support measures, advisory services, governance structures and national priorities, while also providi

Applications are now open for the Erasmus+ EcoFem Permaculture Design Course from the 13th to the 21st of September 2026! The EcoFem Permaculture Design Course (PDC) is a fully immersive international learning experience taking place in Koper, Slovenia and hosted by the Slovene Permaculture Association (DPS). Based on the internationally recognised 72-hour Permaculture Design Curriculum, the course combines theory, practical learning, community living, and collaborative desig

MaYA Foundation has been informed that the Agricultural and Rural Payments Agency (ARPA) has contacted beneficiaries of EAFRD funding, including those receiving support under land-based measures and other rural development schemes. Since certain funding commitments may remain subject to checks and inspections for a number of years, farmers and breeders whose ability to honour these commitments was affected by the explosion are urged to submit a Force Majeure request by 30th J

Are you a young rural advisor or wannabe advisor at the beginning of your career looking to strengthen your skills and expand your international network? The Young EUFRAS Training Programme 2026/27 is now accepting applications until 17 July 2026. Over a 16-month journey, 20 selected participants will benefit from CECRA-certified training, mentoring, study visits, and networking opportunities across Slovenia, Serbia, Ireland, and Austria, developing key competencies to suppor

Are you aged between 18 and 26 and passionate about sustainability, innovation, or entrepreneurship? Join the INNO-ANTIDOTE mini-incubator pilot on 23 July 2026 in Valletta and help design the programme to tackle environmental challenges through green business ideas. Participants will gain early access to the incubator, provide feedback on its learning materials, and might have the opportunity to join the full programme launching later this year with the chance to compete i

On 29 January and 15 & 16 April 2026, Neil had the opportunity to represent MaYA at the EU CAP Network Thematic Group (TG) meetings on “The CAP’s Role in Supporting Sustainable and Competitive Livestock Systems”, held in Brussels and Lisbon. The group brought together 40 selected participants from 18 Member States, consisting of farmers, cooperatives, researchers, advisors, civil society organisations and public authorities. The objective of the Thematic Group is to explore h

Following the first discussions held in Brussels, the EU CAP Network Thematic Group on Farm Diversification reconvened in Rome for its second meeting, bringing together stakeholders from across Europe to continue shaping ideas on how farm businesses can become more resilient, sustainable, and future-oriented. Representing Malta Youth in Agriculture (MaYA), Janie Vassallo contributed to the exchange by sharing Malta’s perspective on farm diversification, youth engagement, and

Update (3rd June 2026): This article has been updated with information received from the Ministry for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights regarding guidance for affected farmers and breeders requiring assistance. Following this morning's explosion at the Ta’ Lourdes fireworks factory in Magħtab, MaYA Foundation would like to thank everyone who reached out, offered assistance, and showed genuine concern towards the farmers, breeders, and animals affected by this incident.

The Malta Youth in Agriculture (MaYA) Foundation has highlighted key challenges affecting young people entering or remaining in agriculture in Malta, following discussions linked to the European Parliament’s report on Generational Renewal in Agriculture. Drawing from continuous engagement at both local and EU level, MaYA emphasised concerns related to high agricultural land prices and increasing administrative burdens faced by farmers in Malta.