During an event marking strong collaboration between the Government and academia, the Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research, and Innovation, Keith Azzopardi Tanti, launched project ANCHOR. This initiative represents Malta’s commitment to responsible innovation and the well-being of professionals carrying out some of the most demanding roles in society, including healthcare, emergency services, and education, amongst others.
The parliamentary secretary highlighted that, “Education and research are the best investment so that those working at the highest levels remain resilient in difficult situations. ANCHOR demonstrates what can be achieved when the Government and academia work hand in hand with a common goal: to improve the lives of citizens and ensure that Malta remains at the forefront of ethical innovation.”
The ANCHOR project addresses the emotional and mental demands in high-pressure workplaces. Through this framework, a strong foundation is being built for a future digital tool in the form of a mobile app that places scientific evidence and human experience at its center.
Dr Bernice Sant, as the lead researcher of the project, shaped the psychological foundation of ANCHOR based on internationally recognized methods such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and mindfulness. Dr. Sant explained that her vision was to create support tailored to the realities of high-responsibility professions, stating that, “What has been created is a carefully crafted framework that prioritizes user safety and ethical integrity. Through this psychological expertise, we are offering a tool that respects the dignity of our professionals while helping them navigate the intense pressures of their work.”
Professor Matthew Montebello and the team from the University of Malta played a crucial role in ensuring the project is built with ethical integrity and aligned with the evolving regulatory framework of artificial intelligence. This investment in detailed attention at the early stages ensures that the innovation is sustainable and has a long-term positive impact.
Through this initiative, the Parliamentary Secretariat for Youth, Research, and Innovation continues to show its support for projects that strengthen the national workforce and promote the responsible use of technology for the benefit of Maltese society.
