As Malta is commemorating the 450th anniversary of the Great Siege of Malta, the MITA Innovation Hub in collaboration with Heritage Malta has launched a digital history game aimed for form 2 students. The game was developed in line with the recent game-based learning tool, another relatively new project spearheaded by MITA, to create a more interactive and engaging experience of this historical even.
During a press event held at the Grandmaster’s Palace in Valletta, SquareScope, a start-up selected to develop the digital game called “To the Bastions!”, gave an overview of this exciting game including the stages in developing the game itself. Through the MITA Innovation Hub initiative, SquareScope was able to start fulfilling their ambitions and broaden their portfolio of services particularly in this area.
Parliamentary Secretary Jose’ Herrera addressed the event and stated that through innovation and institutions such as the MITA Innovation Hub; start-ups like SquareScope are finding the much sought after guidance and opportunities. Dr Herrera reiterated the Government’s commitment to use the potential of technology in the education sector, most notably by the introduction of new hardware such as new laptops and tablets.
Dr Herrera said: “It is in this context that the MITA Innovation Hub is launching calls for applications directed to small enterprises and students alike who have entrepreneurial spirit and who would like to start a new business to solve problems using technology and innovation. One of these start-ups was a group of students, “SquareScope”, who are here today presenting their new digital game. MITA supported them both financially, by donating them prize of EUR2000, and also by other means, like the use of adequate technology and continuous consultancy during the development of their project. Through this holistic aid, their dream could become a reality.”
Also addressing the press event, Mr. Emanuel Darmanin, Head of Strategy and Planning Department at MITA outlined that following the encouraging feedback received and quality of results achieved, the MITA Innovation Hub has launched a new scheme earlier last month called StartAPP v2.0 in order to give more opportunities to students and start-ups.