Ombudsman meets MCAST journalism students for interactive session on the role of the Ombudsman

Ombudsman meets MCAST journalism students for interactive session on the role of the Ombudsman

Published January 19, 2026

The Parliamentary Ombudsman, Judge Joseph Zammit McKeon, held an informative session with final year Bachelor of Arts Honours in Journalism students from the Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology. The visit formed part of the students’ practical learning as part of their module on institutional set up.

Welcoming the students, the Ombudsman stressed the importance of future journalists understanding the role and function of oversight and integrity institutions. He highlighted the strong working relationship between the Office of the Ombudsman and the media and underlined how journalists play a key role in informing the public about the Ombudsman’s work, mission, and contribution to transparency and accountability. He referred to several own initiative investigations that originated from media reporting and led to concrete outcomes and recommendations for redress.

During the session, the Ombudsman explained the mission and legal framework of the Office, guiding students through the Ombudsman Act and its provisions using practical examples. He described how complaints are handled, how investigations are conducted, and how the Office engages with public authorities. The discussion also covered the Ombudsman’s broader role in promoting good governance and upholding the rule of law.

Students participated actively throughout the session and raised questions on a wide range of issues. These included the types of complaints that fall within the Ombudsman’s remit, the protection and promotion of human rights, the Ombudsman’s proposed legislative framework to incorporate human rights within the mandate of the Office, and the reports submitted to Parliament.

The students were accompanied by their lecturer, Dr Natalino Fenech. The visit provided an opportunity for direct engagement and practical insight into the work of the Ombudsman and the role of independent oversight institutions in a democratic society.