The University of Malta and Public Broadcasting Services Lt. have signed an agreement regarding the development of a collaborative initiative in the field of research. University Rector Prof. Juanito Camilleri signed on behalf of University while Dr Tonio Portughese, Chairman, signed on behalf of PBS. The signing took place in the presence of Minister Evarist Bartolo and Minister Owen Bonnici. The Memorandum of Understanding covers a period of one year.

The two Parties will collaborate in promoting awareness of scientific research projects conducted at University by means of the production and transmission of a number of documentaries, in English, on PBS operated channels.

Using creative approaches, the collaboration will help raise awareness about scientific research. Audiences will be able to understand how University of Malta research is contributing in making life better for society and in finding solutions to various problems.

A pilot documentary, the first in an eventual series of twelve, will be funded by PBS. Through the promotion  of the pilot documentary the Parties will be seeking sponsors for the rest of the production amongst reputable persons,  organizations and companies interested in supporting innovative projects that promote science literacy, while engaging with a large number of people through the media, science museums and other non-classroom settings.

Topics shall include health related ones such as research on the genetics of blood disorders, as well as ICT, marine archaeology and brain/computer interface.

Minister Evarist Bartolo said that investment in research is slowly increasing and will need to gain momentum to reach the Europe 2020 targets. More exposure to the research conducted will help drive this momentum and the country to reach this goal.