News
News
The Malta Digital Innovation Authority (MDIA) plays a crucial role in ensuring that no one misses the opportunity to benefit from the advantages brought by digital innovation.
By focusing on the digital literacy of Maltese and Gozitan children and youth, the MDIA helps them build the necessary knowledge to thrive in an increasingly digital world. This not only helps students develop an interest in technology but also lays the foundation for a workforce proficient in technological advancements. This contributes significantly to Malta’s economic growth and competitiveness in the global tech industry.
Here are some of the educational initiatives led by the MDIA:
Pathfinder Digital Scholarships
The Pathfinder Digital Scholarships are a transformative initiative designed to support postgraduate education in crucial technological fields. These areas include Artificial Intelligence, Digital Trust, Knowledge and Data Representation and Analysis, Technology for Sustainability, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG), and Quantum Computing. By emphasising these fields, the scholarships ensure that Malta’s workforce is equipped with the necessary skills to succeed in a rapidly evolving global landscape. This forward-looking perspective is instrumental in enhancing Malta’s competitiveness on the international stage.
Summer Schools and Courses in Malta and Gozo
The MDIA collaborated with the eSkills Malta Foundation, Tech.mt and MCAST to organise the Future Innovators Summer School for youths aged 13 to 15. The programme was designed to introduce students to a wide range of topics related to digital innovation. Each week focused on a different theme, allowing students to gain a broader understanding of various technologies. Over eight weeks, students explored Cybersecurity, Digital Video, 3D Printing, Artificial Intelligence, eSports, Game Development, Robotics, and Coding. This diverse curriculum provided students with an introduction to technologies shaping the future and laid the groundwork for further study and career opportunities in these fields.
Building on last year’s programme, the Future Innovators Summer School Plus delved deeper into four key subjects over four weeks: Artificial Intelligence, 3D Printing, Game Development and Robotics. In addition to classroom learning, students participated in industry visits, providing practical insights into how these technologies are applied in real-world settings.
For the first time, a summer school was launched in Gozo aimed at younger students aged 6 to 12, called the Gozo Tech Whiz Summer School. The programme introduced children to fundamental concepts in technology, such as Robotics, Coding, Artificial Intelligence and Video Production. By engaging students from an early age, the programme laid the foundation for lifelong interest in technology, equipping participants with essential skills for future education and careers.
In collaboration with the University of Malta, an intensive bootcamp called xPloring Intelligence – A Bootcamp on Us and Tech was organised. Spanning five half-days, each featured both theoretical and practical sessions on topics such as Ethics of Deepfake Media, Machine Learning, Ethics of Machines, Security, Mobile Applications and the Metaverse. Targeting children aged 11 to 12, this bootcamp encouraged students to delve deeper into the ethical and technical aspects of modern technology. This holistic approach ensured that students not only learnt how to use technology, but also considered the broader implications of its use.
Another initiative, Tech Trek – A Teen Tech Adventure, followed a similar format, covering five half-days where participants explored theoretical and practical learning on topics such as Artificial Intelligence, Data Analysis, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Logic and Problem Solving and Game Design. This bootcamp aimed to spark a passion for technology among teenagers, encouraging them to pursue careers in tech-related fields.
The various programmes offered by the Malta Digital Innovation Authority are vital to shaping the future of Malta’s tech industry. By investing in education and skill development, Malta is not only preparing capable individuals for tomorrow’s challenges, but also positioning itself as a leader in the global tech arena. These initiatives ensure that Malta’s future will be bright, innovative and competitive. The positive response to these programmes motivates the MDIA to continue investing in strengthening digital literacy for both adults and children.
Author: Christopher Farrugia – Projects Senior Officer