Through an investment of more than €700,000 from MITA, a memorandum of understanding was signed with FITA which will bolster the quality of life of people with disabilities and the vulnerable through communication and information technology. This agreement is based on a three-year period and was signed by Minister for Equality, Research and Innovation Owen Bonnici and Minister for the Economy and Industry Silvio Schembri.
During his address, Minister Schembri emphasised MITA’s commitment to impart ICT learning to various sectors of the community. He explained how this agreement will in fact lead to education and awareness campaigns, research on the use of accessible technology, and a wider range of ICT-related courses, which include online training for people with disabilities or vulnerabilities, so that these are accorded more attention. Therefore, these individuals learn more effectively about the use of ICT in different scenarios, including at work, school or at home. A study will also be carried out that should lead to more software applications in Maltese, specifically for those who use technology to communicate.
In his speech, Minister Owen Bonnici praised the efforts of FITA, which is working hard to further improve the quality of life of vulnerable people through technology, which is becoming increasingly sophisticated and accessible, and which addresses a range of different needs. He thanked MITA for its ongoing support. “Throughout the pandemic,” said the Minister, “we have seen and experienced the benefits of technology. For many people, technology has been the only means of communication and the only way to keep in touch with the rest of society whilst avoiding isolation.” He referred to the conclusions of the Post-COVID-19 Strategy, and said that this agreement went hand-in-hand with the recommendations of the same strategy.
MITA Executive Chairman Tony Sultana stressed that, in terms of direct financial contribution, the amount of around €350,000 will be utilised to enable FITA to recruit people with expertise in this area as well as for the Assistive Technology Fund, which will be required for each person working within FITA. Funds will also be used to help FITA carry out research, training and to take part in various projects related to technology.
FITA Executive Head Carlo Stivala thanked MITA for their ongoing support. He said that, “This agreement will help us enhance our efforts in making ICT more accessible to all, including vulnerable persons and persons with disability. We are committed to keep improving our services so that more people can enjoy a better quality of life.”
MITA’s aim is to deliver a better quality of life to all Maltese citizens through ICT. FITA’s goal is to make ICT more accessible to people with disabilities and the vulnerable.
