Valletta, Malta, December 2023 - After six years of inception and three years since its official launch, the pioneering Bachelor of Science in Diving Safety Management proudly presented its inaugural graduates. This academic program, the first of its kind globally, is tailored to diving professionals, aiming to elevate standards in the diving industry. The curriculum focuses on diving safety, medical research, and the sustainable management of both economic and environmental aspects of diving operations.
On December 4th, approximately 300 students from the Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS) gathered at the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta, Malta, to celebrate their academic achievements. The diverse group of graduates, ranging from Foundation to Master’s Degree level, included the cohort of the Bachelor of Science in Diving Safety Management. The ceremony, a culmination of dedication and hard work, was attended by the Minister for Tourism, academic and administrative staff, graduates, and their proud guests. Distinguished guests, including Alessandro Marroni (DAN Europe CEO), Pierre Fenech (ITS CEO), and Clayton Bartolo (Minister for Tourism, Malta), delivered inspiring speeches, emphasizing the graduates' pivotal roles in shaping the future of the diving industry.
This year’s graduation speech was delivered by Mr. Tickle, a graduate of the Bachelor of Science in Diving Safety Management with over thirty years of industry experience. Reflecting on his journey, Mr. Tickle shared the challenges faced during his studies, emphasizing the value of perseverance and adaptation. He encouraged students to approach the uncertainties of their futures with resilience and openness to change.
“Thanks to all those involved – organisers, partners, faculty, stakeholders,” declared Prof. Alessandro Marroni. “I started this journey six years ago with many hopes but also many uncertainties. It is particularly gratifying to witness how the science of diving safety has now gained academic dignity. Congratulations to the students, Audrey, Paul, Ray, and Tiit. Their dedication, passion, and commitment will undoubtedly make a significant impact on the future of diving safety.”
A unique programme
The BSc in Diving Safety Management is an academic program promoted by the International School of Diving Safety and Medicine (ISDSM), a joint effort of DAN Europe and ITS, in collaboration with Divers Alert Network, DAN Southern Africa, PADI and PDSA (Professional Diving Schools Association Malta), and under the supervision of the Malta Ministry for Tourism, Ministry for Education, and Ministry for Gozo. The Faculty includes the European Committee for Hyperbaric Medicine, the European College of Baromedicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, University of Stellenbosch, and Northwest University. The programme was designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of diving safety, management, and scientific diving. Lectures are held at the beautiful ITS campus in Qala, Gozo, providing students with the unique advantage of enjoying fantastic diving opportunities at spectacular dive sites. The Maltese archipelago, with its dozens of highly organized dive centers and a vibrant diving community, offers a stimulating international working environment.
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