University of Malta research and innovation laboratories inaugurated by PM
Malta has the opportunity to lead in research and innovation through investments in educational institutions, stated Prime Minister Robert Abela during the opening of the research and innovation laboratories within the Trake (Transdisciplinary Research and Knowledge Exchange) complex. These specialised labs in engineering are situated in the inaugural building at the University of Malta dedicated solely to research. They will cater to Master's and Doctorate-level students, focusing on research in artificial intelligence, manufacturing engineering, automation and robotic engineering for land, sea and aerospace vehicles.
The Prime Minister said that the synergy between ministries and other entities such as the University of Malta is a clear sign of where the government wants to take the country within the coming years, which he said is to the forefront of the technological advances which are happening around the world. He continued that this investment of €39m in both public and European funds is a testimony of investment in the country’s education. He remarked that the government’s decision to reform the stipend system, which included an increase, particularly for students studying in fields of the future, forms part of this vision.
During his visit to the laboratories, Abela spoke with the students who are also researching electronics testing where smart technologies are being created and applied in various fields so that efficiency can be improved in cases such as energy use in buildings.
He said that it is the students who bring about the success of a project such as the one inaugurated at the university, as the laboratories and state-of-theart equipment are given life through the students.
Abela spoke about a visit he had earlier this week to the Trelleborg factory. He said that there are many companies in the country which are thriving with innovation and offer quality products which end up in widespread use on a daily basis, such as cars, mobile phones, medicine and other products. He emphasised that such an investment is crucial because it prepares students for the realities they will encounter in the industry, enabling them to shape its future direction.
He added that while investments are being made in toplevel laboratories for research and innovation, the government also wants to invest in those students “who use their hands to do what they visualise". He referred to the trade courses, which also involve science and technology.
Prime Minister Abela concluded by saying that the initiative at the University of Malta is not an isolated one. Together with the ongoing initiatives in new industrial sectors, it gives a clear indication that what is being done in the country will continue to foster a strong relationship with science and technology even in the earliest stages of education. This alignment aims to synchronise education with the evolving economy.