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Cutting-edge Research Laboratories at University of Malta Inaugurated

Feb 23 2024 Share

Prime Minister Robert Abela unveiled state-of-the-art research and innovation laboratories at the University of Malta, marking a significant stride towards positioning Malta at the forefront of technological advancements.

The inauguration of these laboratories, nestled within the TRAKE (Transdisciplinary Research and Knowledge Exchange) complex, underscores a strategic investment in educational infrastructure aimed at nurturing the next generation of innovators and researchers.

During the inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Abela emphasised the pivotal role of education in preparing students for promising careers in emerging industries. He highlighted the importance of aligning educational resources with the demands of evolving industries, ensuring that Maltese youth are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in a rapidly changing technological landscape.

The TRAKE laboratories are poised to facilitate cutting-edge research in various fields, including manufacturing engineering, artificial intelligence, automation, and robotic engineering. By providing students with access to state-of-the-art equipment and resources, the University of Malta aims to foster a conducive environment for innovative research and knowledge exchange.

Prime Minister Abela underscored the collaborative effort between government entities and academic institutions in realising this ambitious initiative. He emphasised the significance of public and European funds in driving forward educational reforms and investments in the future workforce.

Furthermore, Prime Minister Abela reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting students pursuing studies in fields of the future, citing recent reforms to the stipend system as an example. By incentivising students to pursue careers in high-demand sectors, the government aims to bolster Malta’s competitiveness on the global stage.

In addition to fostering a culture of innovation within academic institutions, Prime Minister Abela emphasized the importance of vocational education in nurturing practical skills among students. He highlighted the government’s efforts to integrate science and technology into vocational courses, ensuring that students are equipped to meet the demands of modern industries.

The inauguration of the TRAKE laboratories represents a significant milestone in Malta’s journey towards becoming a hub for research and innovation.

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New simplification measures introduced for the Empowerment Scheme

Feb 23 2024 Share

A simplified and easier process for people with disabilities applying for subsidies through the Empowerment scheme has been announced by the Support Agency, led by Minister for Inclusion and Volunteering Julia Farrugia Portelli.

The new measures will mean that applicants for subsidies will now need to submit a single estimate instead of three for assistive devices, ranging between €400 and €3,000.  To also make life easier any items or devices in the price range of €100 and €300 can now be grouped together to reach the €400 threshold.

A medical report will no longer be needed as a valid medical certificate from the applicant’s doctor will now be enough. For subsidy applications on hearing aids, a medical certificate is also no longer needed.

Minister Farrugia Portelli emphasized that this simplification process will enable applicants to make use of the necessary devices more quickly due to reduced bureaucracy, making life easier for people with disabilities and avoiding discouragement due to excessive administrative hurdles.

Support Agency CEO Oliver Scicluna emphasized the agency’s commitment to improving the accessibility of services and programs while also strengthening accountability, transparency, and efficiency. He highlighted the significance of initiatives such as Empowerment in delivering essential support to individuals with disabilities and their families, ultimately enhancing their community life by facilitating access to assistive devices and improving their overall quality of life.

Between January and December 2023, over €782,000 in subsidies were granted to people with disabilities who applied for financial assistance through the Empowerment scheme, with a total of 1,385 applications approved.

One can apply for this scheme by submitting an electronic application through the Support Agency’s website.

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Sarah Bajada Brings Back Figolli Decorating Kits: Raise For Puttinu

Sarah Bajada Brings Back Figolli Decorating Kits: Raise For Puttinu
Feb 23 2024 Share

Maltese TV Presenter and author Sarah Bajada has announced that, for the second consecutive year, she is bringing her figolli decorating kits back to raise money for Puttinu Cares. 

 

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‘This kit includes everything your little ones need to decorate delicious vanilla cookies at home, and it’s perfect for busy mums who want to spend quality time with their children during the holidays.’

All proceeds which come from the kits will be going to Puttinu Cares so that one would be helping those in need while having fun with the family. 

 

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Last year, Sarah managed to raise €1,000 for the NGO, presenting the cheque to the organisation. After such a success, Sarah hopes to bring more joy to not only kids decorating figolli but also those battling cancer. 

 

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Ian Borg Pushes for Stronger Collaboration at OSCE Assembly

Feb 23 2024 Share

Minister Ian Borg Addresses OSCE Parliamentary Assembly

Ian Borg, as the President of the OSCE, emphasized Malta’s belief in fostering strong collaboration between member countries’ governments and parliamentary structures to maintain the organization’s effectiveness. Speaking at the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly in Vienna, Austria, Borg highlighted the crucial role of this independent institution in promoting dialogue among parliamentarians from OSCE member states.

Reflecting on the current challenges facing the OSCE, Borg underscored the necessity for the organization to operate effectively, particularly in turbulent times. He emphasized the significance of the assembly’s potential and the critical importance of addressing parliamentary concerns.

Borg also addressed recent events, noting the second anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and affirming Malta’s commitment to prioritizing the cessation of the conflict. He reiterated that conflicts and tensions in the region and beyond will remain high on the OSCE agenda.

Regarding Malta’s presidency, Borg outlined priorities focused on “Strengthening Resilience and Enhancing Security” across all dimensions of the OSCE. Additionally, he engaged in meetings with various stakeholders, including the President and Secretary-General of the General Assembly, as well as with the Maltese Parliamentary delegation and internal OSCE officials.