CONNECT Project Charts A New Course For Malta’s Marine Data System
Malta is taking a significant step towards a national marine data system with the CONNECT project, which aims to streamline marine observations and unlock the full potential of the country’s seas.
Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research and Innovation, Keith Azzopardi Tanti, addressed the CONNECT Conference, bringing together national stakeholders, researchers, operators, and private enterprises to discuss the future of Malta’s marine data ecosystem. The event focused on establishing a coordinated national system to support monitoring, ecosystem management, research, industry, and maritime security.
Organised by MCAST under the coordination of Professor Aldo Drago, Malta’s national focal point for the UN/IOC and the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS), the conference featured expert presentations and interactive consultation sessions. Discussions centred on designing, planning, and funding sustained marine observations to support sustainable development, safeguard marine resources, and advance innovation.
The CONNECT project, funded directly by the Parliamentary Secretariat for Research and Innovation, rests on three pillars: building national competence in the marine sector, establishing a coordinated approach to marine data, and providing essential core data as a service.
In his opening remarks, Parliamentary Secretary Azzopardi Tanti stated, “Malta is working towards a coordinated national plan for marine data production one that meets the needs of stakeholders, adds value, strengthens the blue economy, and serves a knowledge-based society. Marine data is not just for research; it is the foundation of the information age, fuelling innovation, industry applications, and new economic opportunities.”
CONNECT Project Charts A New Course For Malta’s Marine Data System
Tonio Portughese, Chairman of Xjenza Malta, added, “The CONNECT project clearly demonstrates how Malta can realise a vision where science and policy work hand in hand for the benefit of the country. Marine knowledge is not only an investment in science, but also in the future of our society. Open data and international collaboration are essential pillars to strengthen the blue economy and ensure the wellbeing of future generations.”
Professor Aldo Drago highlighted the project’s broader significance, “A national marine data system will provide us with the tools to understand ecosystem health, manage our resources sustainably, and open new avenues for innovation and enterprise. CONNECT is more than a project: it is a commitment to put our seas at the heart of national policy, strengthen the link between science and decision-making, and empower research, innovation, and open data in the service of society.”
MCAST Principal and CEO, Stephen Vella, emphasised the educational aspect of the initiative, “The marine sector requires a highly skilled workforce in research, technology, digital systems, and services. At MCAST, we are preparing young talent with the scientific, technical, and engineering skills needed to meet rapidly evolving markets and seize new opportunities in marine and space research. With continued investment in our educational infrastructure, we are laying the foundation for the next generation of professionals who will drive innovation and industry growth.”
The conference welcomed more than 70 participants in person and attracted a strong international online audience. It also received support from international partners including Mercator Ocean International, the Copernicus Marine Service, and JPI Oceans, underscoring Malta’s growing role in regional and European marine science and data initiatives.
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