During a news conference, the projects that will receive funds under the scheme for 2024 were officially announced. The National STEM Community Fund it is managed by the National STEM Engagement Working Group, under Science Malta, in collaboration with Esplora. The goal of the fund is to encourage local communities to identify and solve challenges using STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) together with professionals in the same field.
The Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research and Innovation, Keith Azzopardi Tanti, mentioned how the National STEM Community Fund allows local communities to address local issues through STEM, where it also creates innovative opportunities for citizens.
The selected projects are:
- The Dwejra Lines Project – The Maltese Chamber of Scientists. This project will involve the citizens to together with researchers design a system of collecting information on the flora and fauna around the Dwejra Lines.
- Botanical Bridges: Linking Education and Environment – Sacred Heart College . The students will create a garden in the school to learn about biodiversity and environmental responsibility.
- Tech Beyond Borders – Port Regional Council. Children will have an opportunity to learn about innovative technologies such as VR sets, while exploring the history of the Great Port.
- DRIVE STEM – Chamber of Engineers . The initiative aims to attract more women to engineering careers, through videos from STEM professionals.
The National STEM Community Fund is a key component of Esplora’s vision to ensure that STEM plays a role in addressing current challenges. With global challenges such as climate change, digital transformation and sustainability, STEM education is more important than ever.
Silvio Scerri, the CEO of Xzenza Malta, said: “This fund empowers local communities to identify challenges and solve them with the help of STEM professionals, and makes science more accessible”.
Rebecca Buttigieg, Chairperson of the ISTEM Engagement Working Group, said that the fund is having a positive impact on the Maltese and Gozitan communities, and they look forward to the results of the new projects.
Photos (MEYR_PS)
