Malta Will Have Its First Chatbot

Nov 27 2023

A groundbreaking €3 million AI project, titled “The New Era of Chatbot,” is underway through a strategic partnership between Cartesio Ltd, the University of Malta, and Noovle International, with offices at the Gozo Innovation Hub.

The initiative focuses on developing an innovative conversational platform utilizing cutting-edge AI and machine learning technologies.

The primary goal is to create an advanced chatbot capable of providing customer care support in the Maltese language for the banking, finance, insurance, and investment services sectors. The project aims to leverage highly advanced cloud computing capabilities.

The first prototypes of the conversational chatbot will operate within the financial services field, with the Maltese language being the initial focus.

The developers showcased the project during a visit by Enterprise Minister Miriam Dalli, Gozo Minister Clint Camilleri, and Malta Enterprise CEO Kurt Farrugia. The developers envision broader applications for the advanced chatbot, extending beyond financial services to sectors such as public service, tourism, and e-commerce.

Supported by Malta Enterprise under the Research and Development Scheme, the project aligns with Malta’s push for a knowledge-based economy. Minister Camilleri highlighted the project’s alignment with the government’s vision for Gozo, attracting companies engaged in research and innovation.

Noovle International Director Valentino Benicchio expressed interest in exploring further research and development opportunities in Malta, emphasizing sustainability and innovation. Francesca Caruso, Director of Cartesio Ltd, emphasized the fruitful collaboration between the public and private sectors in Malta, underlining the symbiotic relationship between academia and industry in driving innovation. Senior lecturer Dr. Claudia Borg highlighted the significance of such collaborations in advancing research knowledge and capacity in the AI field.

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EMPTY SCHOOLS: 97% of educators participate in today’s strike

Nov 27 2023

The Malta Union of Teachers (MUT) has reported an unprecedented level of participation in today’s strike organised by educators in both State Schools and Church Schools.

The overwhelming response from educators, with participation reaching up to 97%, underscores the collective frustration and determination of the teaching community. This one-day strike has been called by MUT in response to the breakdown of negotiations with the government regarding the financial package for educators.

MUT STRIKE
The decision to strike comes after unsuccessful attempts to reach a satisfactory agreement with the government on matters related to the financial well-being of educators. The absence of a resolution has prompted the MUT to take this bold step in order to assert the rights and demands of its members, which saw school entrances devoid of both educators and students.

The tangible impact of the strike was evident during morning school opening times when entrances stood empty, devoid of the usual bustling activity of educators and students. This powerful display of solidarity sends a clear message to stakeholders about the depth of concern and dissatisfaction within the teaching community.

In response to the overwhelming support from educators, MUT President, officials, and the Council expressed gratitude for the resounding manifestation of unity. The union acknowledged the educators’ dedication to the common good and emphasised that this strike is a necessary step to draw attention to the challenges faced by educators in their quest for fair compensation and recognition.

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Twilight Could Be Getting A Reboot With Jenna Ortega

Nov 27 2023

The director of the original “Twilight” film, Catherine Hardwicke, recently discussed her hypothetical casting choices for Edward and Bella if the franchise were produced in the 2020s.

Reflecting on the iconic roles played by Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart, Hardwicke suggested that Jacob Elordi would be a perfect fit for the role of Edward Cullen in today’s context. Speaking on the “Happy, Sad, Confused” podcast with Josh Horowitz, she praised Elordi’s talent, stating that he could embody the character of Edward exceptionally well.

Hardwicke also considered Jenna Ortega as a suitable candidate for the role of Bella Swan, citing Ortega’s successful performances in projects like “Wednesday” and “Scream.” However, the director acknowledged uncertainties regarding whether Elordi would be willing to engage in a franchise of the magnitude of “Twilight.”

Elordi, known for his breakthrough in “The Kissing Booth,” expressed dissatisfaction with the experience, labeling the films as ‘ridiculous’ and emphasizing his commitment to avoiding the Hollywood pattern of doing films solely for commercial appeal.

Reflecting on his time as Edward, Robert Pattinson, in a 2019 interview with USA Today, noted the intense fan fervor during the franchise’s peak and how it has since subsided.

He appreciated the current, more relaxed interactions with fans who fondly recall the series, describing it as a shift from the earlier, overwhelming intensity. Pattinson highlighted the warmth of memories associated with the “Twilight” era, portraying a contrast to the initial overwhelming mania.

#MaltaDaily

Feminist Activists Hold Protest March In Valletta

Nov 27 2023

Activists, allies, and members of the general public walked through Valletta in a protest march organised by Moviment Graffitti, Young Progressive Beings (YPB), and MGRM. At the end, a powerful performance showcasing the poignant examples of violence was held in front of Parliament.

The protest march aimed to raise awareness of the pervasive culture of violence against women and girls, trans and non-binary people in our society.

The 25th of November marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. This year’s focus revolved around the theme of “Resisting the Culture of Violence”. Coined in the 1970s, the concept of a ‘culture of violence’ was forged to explain the normalisation of violence against women in all its forms: from physical and sexual to economic and psychological.

The grim reality persists nowadays—violence against women, trans, and non-binary individuals thrives within our society, disguised beneath the veneer of ‘jokes’ or ‘compliments’. From unwanted sexual attention to cyber harassment, from objectifying comments to stalking and more, these forms of violence infiltrate daily life, perpetuated by societal attitudes that excuse, dismiss, or worse, encourage such behaviours.

Never was this clearer than on Wednesday, when we remembered and honoured Bernice Cilia, who last year was murdered in cold blood, a victim of femicide. Our anger and disappointment at the culture and system which allowed her death to happen is still as present as ever. Even today, there are still well over 2,200 other domestic violence cases which are pending. What are we waiting for?

Resisting the culture of violence demands collective action, rejecting the notion that anyone should endure mistreatment or objectification based on gender. We need to unveil and continue to challenge the societal fabric that allows these injustices to persist.

#MaltaDaily