Launch Of New Initiative In Quantum Computing

Jan 16 2025

At a recent press event, Parliamentary Secretary Keith Azzopardi Tanti, alongside the University of Malta, introduced a groundbreaking initiative in the field of Quantum Computing. This forward-thinking project is set to position Malta as a global leader in emerging technologies.

The initiative, spearheaded by Professors Andre Xuereb and John Apollaro from the University of Malta, aims to bridge the gap between quantum computation theory and practical application. The project’s goal is to harness quantum computing’s potential to drive advancements in critical areas such as healthcare, climate change, and artificial intelligence.

Parliamentary Secretary Azzopardi Tanti highlighted the strategic importance of this project, underscoring Malta’s commitment to fostering innovation. “This initiative reflects our belief in the talent of our researchers and our ambition to establish Malta as a hub for cutting-edge technologies. Quantum computing is not just a technological leap; it’s an opportunity to reshape society and open up new possibilities,” he stated.

The project will also facilitate collaborations with global tech giants like IBM, Amazon, and Airbus, providing researchers and students with access to advanced quantum computing infrastructure. Additionally, it offers funding for postdoctoral research, conference participation, and the hosting of international experts in Malta.

Prof. Andre Xuereb emphasized the significance of this step, calling it a vital move towards understanding and utilizing quantum computing to solve global challenges. “This is an exciting opportunity for Malta to contribute meaningfully to the global scientific community,” he said.

In partnership with Esplora, Malta’s National Science Centre, the project will explore the creation of a permanent Quantum Computing exhibition to inspire and educate the next generation. In 2026, Malta will also host an international summer school, attracting researchers and students from around the world.

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1,268 Residents In Malta’s South East Elderly Homes

Jan 16 2025

According to information tabled by Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela, there are currently 1,268 residents in Malta’s elderly homes in the south-east of Malta.

Residenza San Guzepp, Fgura, has the highest occupancy rate at 297, whereas Floriana Home – Dar il-Mistrieh has the lowest at 42.

Meanwhile Casa Paola in Rahal Gdid has 110 residents, Fgura’s Dar l-Annunzjata has 224 and Hal Ghaxaq’s Ghigo Community Care has 145.

St Thomas Community Living in Wied il-Ghajn has 246 residents and Zejtun Home has 204.

The question was tabled by Paula Mifsud Bonnici.

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Experts To Provide Training On Human Trafficking In Malta

Jan 16 2025

American experts in the fight against human trafficking will be coming to Malta to provide training to Maltese officials who are implementing the national strategy and action plan against human trafficking, which were launched last year.

The Parliamentary Secretary for Equality and Reforms, Rebecca Buttigieg, announced this during a conference that marked the conclusion of a cooperation program between the Directorate for Human Rights within the Parliamentary Secretariat and experts from the Council of Europe and the European Commission, who assisted in the research and development of the national strategy and action plan against human trafficking.

Parliamentary Secretary Rebecca Buttigieg noted that the implementation of the strategy has already started to yield results in cases that have been investigated by the police. She mentioned that these results will continue to be strengthened with the implementation of the Labour Migration Policy, which is currently in a public consultation phase.

While thanking the experts who assisted in the development of the national strategy against human trafficking, the Parliamentary Secretary emphasized that the government’s policy in this area is centered on the fight against organized crime networks and the protection and support of victims.

She reiterated the government’s commitment to prioritizing the protection of human rights, as human trafficking represents the greatest disrespect and insult to the dignity of its victims.

The conference offered the opportunity for workshops, during which evaluation and discussions took place between Maltese and European experts to establish mechanisms for the effective implementation of the strategy and action plan.

The conference was addressed, among others, by the Executive Secretary of the European Convention on Action Against Trafficking in Human Beings, Petya Nestorova, and officials from the European Commission.

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This Past Night Was Reportedly The Coldest This Winter

Jan 16 2025

According to local Facebook weather page ‘Maltese Islands Weather’, this past night was the coldest night so far this winter.

The night between Wednesday 15th and Thursday 16th January reportedly registered a minimum of 5.6 degrees Celsius.

According to ‘It-Temp Madwarna’, the lowest temperature of the air was 7 degrees Celsius, dropping to 5 degrees Celsius in rural areas and to 2 degrees Celsius in the soil.

The wintery and rainy weather is set to persist into the weekend, with some strong winds being forecasted.

Do you like this weather?

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