The Malta College of Arts, Science, and Technology (MCAST) took centre stage at MedTech Malta 2025 alongside the Malta Union of Midwives and Nurses (MUMN), presenting two innovative, technology-driven workshops held on 13 November 2025 at the Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta. 

The first workshop showcased REACH-ETHICS, an MCAST-led project aimed at enhancing research ethics training in both animal and human healthcare. Funded by Xjenza Malta through the Research Excellence Programme, the project is conducted by Dr Lorna Bonnici West, Mr Daren Scerri, Mr Alan Gatt, Mr David Deguara, Mr David Debono, Ms Marisa Galea Vella, Dr Marco Montalto, Dr Francis Delicata, and Ms Lisa Theuma.

During the workshop, Ms Marisa Galea Vella and Mr Scerri demonstrated how the system integrates virtual reality and generative AI to create immersive, scenario-based ethical decision-making environments. Participants explored realistic 3D simulations guided by expert AI avatars, experiencing firsthand how MCAST’s applied research is redefining ethics education within healthcare and scientific disciplines.

The second workshop highlighted ISADD, a cutting-edge simulation and assessment prototype that enhances training on personal protective equipment (PPE) procedures. Developed by Dr Neville Schembri, Mr Gerard Said Pullicino, Mr Daren Scerri, and research teams from the Institute of Applied Science and the Applied Research & Innovation Centre, ISADD leverages augmented reality, image processing, and machine learning to provide real-time feedback on donning and doffing techniques. Also funded by Xjenza Malta’s Research Excellence Programme, the system has already undergone initial testing with healthcare educators and practitioners, reflecting its strong potential for clinical training enhancement.

Together, these workshops reaffirm MCAST’s role in partnering with key stakeholders to drive transformative, technology-enabled innovation in healthcare education.