The Malta College of Arts, Science, and Technology (MCAST) together with The Ministry for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation (MEYR), and in consultation with the Malta Chamber of SMEs launched the Research Fellowship Scheme on campus in Paola.

The aim of the scheme is to provide financial support for Research Fellowships fostering joint Research & Innovation Projects between economic stakeholders and MCAST in the following areas: Smart Manufacturing, Sustainable use of Resources for Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation, and Future Digital Technologies.

The scheme shall be providing a maximum €150,000 financial aid for research projects and each researcher will benefit from up to a maximum of 30,000 Euros.

Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research and Innovation Keith Azzopardi Tanti explained how, “This scheme created through consultation with the Malta Chamber of SMEs not only proves our dedication to academic excellence but also highlights the innovative collaboration between academia and the industry. We are providing financial aid for Research Fellowships to create a dynamic ecosystem where knowledge and resources guide the growth of our educational and financial sectors aimed at fostering economic growth. Together, we can embark on a transformative journey where schemes like this one guide collaboration, and advancements which will help Malta move forward toward excellence in research and innovation.”

At MCAST, research and innovation significantly advance knowledge and address real-world challenges. The College is actively involved in various research areas and initiatives, showcasing a commitment to academic excellence and practical solutions.

Speaking during the event launch MCAST Principal and CEO Professor Joachim James Calleja said, “At MCAST collaboration with the industry has a central role, as it helps advance innovation, solves practical problems and unearths knowledge in diverse areas. Fostering a culture of excellence in research together with the industry helps the College contributing toward quality education and the betterment of society. This new fund will help us move forward. MCAST is not only an educational institution but also a centre of creativity, and progress”.

The Applied Research & Innovation Centre (ARIC) oversees research projects, planning, monitoring and evaluation. The Centre’s annual Research Expo has become a prestigious yearly event highlighting and showcasing applied research that generates new knowledge, solves real-world problems, facilitates learning processes, and fosters collaboration for disseminating findings and solutions.

Deputy Principal at the College’s Applied Research and Innovation Centre (ARIC) Dr Tatjana Chircop said, “As a centre of applied research and innovation MCAST is enforcing its main principles within the realm of research in order to focus on themes that address everyday life situations and real-life problems. We are contributing as Members of the European Union within the research and innovation sectors and helping in strengthening our research acumen together with the industry”.

By encouraging the exchange of expertise and resources, the programme seeks to contribute to the long-term growth and competitiveness of Malta’s educational and financial sectors. This will advance the frontiers of research and cultivate a dynamic ecosystem where academia and industry mutually benefit from shared insights and advancements.

More information on this Research Fellowship Scheme, funding opportunities, the guidelines and regulations, and the application form, can be found via this link.