Minister for the Economy, European Funds and Lands Silvio Schembri has launched a € 100,000 fund called Pathfinder aimed at supporting ICT students to continue their studies.
The main objectives of this scheme are to assist people in pursuing high levels of academic research in artificial intelligence and information security.
This is in addition to reducing the skills gap, in particular in the economic and technological sectors, which include both elements, increasing support for research in science and innovative technologies, and increasing capacity and level of research, innovation and development in Malta.
“In Malta there is 56% of the population with at least basic digital skills, while only 40% have skills that are considered above basic digital skills. Some 58% have basic software skills and only 4.4% of these employees are ICT specialists “, noted Minister Schembri.
Each applicant can enjoy a maximum of € 10,000 throughout the course.
Last year there were 13 students who benefited from the Pathfinder scheme, a number of whom did their studies abroad, including in the United States.
Minister Silvio Schembri encouraged ICT students to continue to specialize in their studies in subjects that are becoming increasingly important in the world of work.
Kenneth Brincat, the Chief Executive of the Malta Digital Innovation Authority, MDIA, said that such initiatives form part of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy and MDIA is responsible for ensuring that the strategy is implemented.
More information on how to apply for this fund can be found at mdia.gov.mt/pathfinder/.
File photo: Minister Silvio Schembri
