SUNx Malta Announces the Climate Friendly Travel (CFT) Diploma Scholarships
Valletta, Malta, June 6, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / SUNx Malta, in partnership with Malta’s Institute for Tourism Studies (ITS), is proud to announce the return of its Climate Friendly Travel (CFT) Diploma Scholarships for 2025. A total of 50 fully-funded places are available for the next intake of this pioneering online postgraduate program, which begins on September 29, 2025.
The scholarships are primarily designated for candidates from Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) — vulnerable regions where climate change poses the greatest threat and sustainable tourism offers vital socio-economic opportunity. A limited number of places will also be open to applicants from other countries.
SUNx Malta’s mission is to advance Climate Friendly Travel in every UN nation, starting in those most vulnerable to climate disruptions. The CFT Diploma — the first of its kind — is designed to empower tourism professionals with the skills and knowledge to lead sustainability and climate resilience initiatives across the global travel and tourism sector. The program is aligned with the Paris Agreement 1.5°C target, the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and supports a nature-positive future. It also reflects the ethical principles of the Earth Charter
The two-year diploma includes:
• Year One: 300 hours of expert-led instruction covering the climate crisis, sustainability, and their intersection with travel and tourism. Students will engage with curated academic materials and attend interactive lectures delivered by globally renowned tourism scholars.
• Year Two: A hands-on internship with SUNx Malta as a CFT Chapter Leader, applying their training to real-world initiatives. Interns will work to strengthen climate-resilient tourism communities, recruit Strong Climate Champions, onboard companies to the Climate Friendly Travel Registry, and promote the Climate Friendly Travel Club to travellers seeking sustainable experiences.
“We believe passionately that Climate Friendly Travel is a better future of tourism,” said Prof. Geoffrey Lipman, President of SUNx Malta. “This scholarship initiative helps cultivate the next generation of leaders who will build a resilient and sustainable sector from the ground up.”
Ideal candidates will hold a first degree, have a background in travel and tourism, and demonstrate a deep commitment to climate action and sustainability. Applicants must be able to dedicate at least four hours per week during the eight-month lecture series and be eager to help grow CFT networks in their own countries.
About SUNx Malta
SUNx Malta is a legacy program of the late Maurice Strong, built to support Climate Friendly Travel – low carbon, SDG-linked, and Paris 1.5-aligned. It is supported by the Malta Tourism Authority. Working with partners like the Institute of Tourism Studies Malta, SUNx develops climate resilience through education, innovation, and global engagement.
