3rd Edition Of National Stem Community Fund Launched

Apr 16 2024

In a news conference, the Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research, and Innovation, Keith Azzopardi Tanti, launched the third edition of the National STEM Community Fund.

Administered by the Malta Council for Science and Technology (MCST) in collaboration with Esplora and the National STEM Engagement Working Group, this fund provides financial support to local organizations to implement projects related to STEM topics within the community. This financial backing aims to leverage research, education, communication, and citizen engagement in STEM subjects through these projects.

Selected projects, chosen after the application process, will receive a maximum grant of €8,000 per project to benefit the entire community. This year, the Fund has allocated €24,000 to various organizations to collaborate with STEM researchers and professionals in developing their community projects.

Parliamentary Secretary Keith Azzopardi Tanti emphasized, “We are committed to encouraging and enhancing scientific activities, research, and awareness of STEM subjects within our communities, which is why we have relaunched this Fund. This Fund is an investment that will benefit society as a whole. Therefore, we encourage citizens and organizations to develop initiatives within their communities.”

Olaf McKay, Director of the Science Interactive Centre, highlighted that this fund continues to drive STEM subjects towards the communities. “Through this Fund, we are financially supporting scientific projects that have a positive impact on our society. We are committed to leading research and innovation within the community.”

Rebecca Buttigieg, Senior Executive and Chairperson of the National STEM Engagement Working Group, noted, “We have already seen the positive impact of this Fund in areas such as STEM education, sustainability, and environmental conservation. We look forward to innovative projects this year and the benefits they will bring.”

Eligible organizations, including schools and resource centers, can access the application form at: https://esplora.org.mt/the-national-stem-community-fund-2024-introduction-and-applications-call-now-open/. Applications are open until May 31, 2024. For more information, email [email protected].

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1st Place For Kamra Tan-Nar Madonna Taċ-Ċintura For Ground Fireworks

Apr 16 2024

Gudja’s ‘Karma Tan-Nar Madonna Taċ-Ċintura’ took first place during the Malta International Fireworks Festival Mechanical Ground Fireworks section after a spectacular showcase.

The Malta International Fireworks Festival began with a bang on April 13th in Floriana. This year’s festival, themed ‘A celebration of classics’, showcases the best of Malta’s fireworks talent.

After the opening night, the festivities will move to Valletta for two consecutive nights of fireworks on April 20th and 21st. The celebration then proceeds to Marsaxlokk on April 26th, Nadur on April 27th, and Mellieħa on April 28th, before concluding with a final show in Valletta on April 30th.

Spectators can enjoy these spectacular shows in person or through a series of videos and a live stream available on Facebook. This approach not only highlights the local expertise in fireworks but also allows a global audience to partake in the festivities. The Malta International Fireworks Festival promises to be a memorable experience for all, celebrating the artistry and tradition of Maltese pyrotechnics.

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People Who Walk Really Fast Are ‘Smarter’, Study Suggests

Apr 16 2024

In this world, there are two distinct types of walkers: the leisurely slow walkers and the brisk, purposeful fast walkers.

Some people prefer a relaxed stroll regardless of the surroundings, while others navigate through bustling foot traffic with determination.

According to a recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, fast walkers not only demonstrate higher intelligence but also age at a slower rate compared to their slower counterparts.

The study, conducted by scientists from Duke University in North Carolina, tracked over 900 individuals from childhood to 45 years old.

Results showed that fast walkers exhibited numerous advantages. By age 45, there was an average 16-point IQ difference favoring fast walkers, indicating higher cognitive abilities.

Interestingly, slower walkers displayed lower IQ scores, reduced emotional stability, and weaker motor skills even as toddlers.

Furthermore, slow gait correlated with compromised brain structure, including smaller brain volume, cortical thinning, and reduced surface area. This suggests that slow walkers face a heightened risk of dementia and accelerated brain aging compared to fast walkers.

So, the next time you briskly pass by slow walkers, remember—your pace might signify more than just speed; it could reflect a healthier brain and smarter disposition according to science.

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The Star-Studded Eurovision Pre-Party at Gianpula Main Room is HERE!

Apr 16 2024

Get ready for a thrilling night at the Eurovision Pre-Party this year, set for May 10th at the Gianpula Main Room! It’s your chance to see some amazing performers live on stage, including last year’s standout Eurovision star from Belgium, Gustaph, who’s coming to Malta to deliver another show-stopping performance.

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The evening will feature a stellar lineup of artists. You’ll see ERBA’, the fresh faced group from MESC 2024, alongside past MESC winners like Glen Vella (2011) and the recent 2023 victors, The Busker. Also gracing the stage will be Destiny, who took the MESC title in both 2020 and 2021.

Adding some extra flair to the night will be performances by fabulous drag queens Trihanna Wilde, Patricia Tibwii, and Chucky. They’re all set to bring some fierce entertainment to the party so DO NOT MISS IT.

Mark your calendars and don’t miss out on this unforgettable evening packed with fun and incredible live performances. It’s not just a concert; it’s a celebration of music and Eurovision lore that you will definitely not forget.

If you haven’t already get your tickets from ticketmonti.com

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