In the ever-evolving realm of global knowledge and innovation, the pivotal role of research and development (R&D) cannot be overstated. It forms the bedrock of progress, pushing the frontiers of human understanding and propelling advancements in diverse fields such as technology, medicine, environmental studies, climate change, and social impact.

The University of Malta, steeped in a rich academic tradition, stands as a bastion of intellectual pursuit. However, nurturing a culture of research excellence necessitates robust support, a need addressed by the Research, Innovation, and Development Trust (RIDT) since its inception.

Established by the Government of Malta in 2011, the University of Malta Research Innovation and Development Trust (RIDT) embodies Malta's commitment to bolstering investment in R&D on a national scale. Its primary objective is to attract funding from private and corporate entities to optimize and leverage the research ecosystem at the University of Malta, while also facilitating the commercialization of research outcomes.

Since its inception, RIDT has actively engaged with various segments of Maltese society to raise awareness about the benefits of university research and the imperative to support it. This concerted effort has yielded numerous community-financed initiatives and projects, including PhD scholarships in cancer research, climate change and in family care, a kidney research programme, heritage conservation projects, engineering research projects and a fully-operational mobile dental clinic, amongst others. It has also supported Malta’s first scientific research project on the International Space Station.

RIDT's steadfast commitment to securing support for ambitious projects has borne fruit over the years, with promising collaborations on the horizon for 2024. In the ensuing weeks, RIDT is poised to unveil new and ongoing partnerships with leading Maltese corporations, businesses, and NGOs.

 

Engagement with Society and the Community

Acknowledging that support for research transcends financial backing, RIDT is actively engaging with the community to cultivate awareness of the significance of research, development, and their societal impacts.

Through regular appearances in the media, including a weekly radio programme on Campus 103.7 (Riċerkaturi), frequent television appearances, and consistent updates across major social media platforms, RIDT maintains a dialogue with citizens.

A recent notable initiative involved an extraordinary event held at the University of Malta, where the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development (MCESD) convened with eminent researchers and academics to delve into ongoing and forthcoming research endeavours, particularly focusing on environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) themes.

The MCESD meeting was held on Friday 26 January 2024 and proved to be a very fruitful event. Representatives of Malta’s leading social partners attended and commented positively on the level of research and innovation which the University of Malta is undertaking through a robust team of researchers in all fields.

Particular interest was shown in the areas of research in renewable energy and transportation logistics, both areas being related to topical issues which stimulates interest from the industry. On-site visits were held at the Center for Entrepreneurship and Business Incubation (CEBI) and at the Department of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering (DMME) laboratories, showcasing cutting-edge research and interdisciplinary collaboration.

In the forthcoming months, RIDT will unveil additional support for cancer research, projects addressing mobility and traffic concerns, and advancements in various research domains.

Supporting RIDT transcends mere investment in individual research ventures; it represents an investment in Malta's educational and innovative future. The trust's unwavering dedication to nurturing a culture of research excellence underscores its comprehension of research's integral role in shaping the nation's trajectory.

Despite the strides made, sustaining and augmenting these endeavours necessitates collective commitment. Continued financial backing for RIDT is imperative to ensure the University of Malta's pre-eminence in research and innovation. It facilitates the recruitment of top-tier researchers, provisions state-of-the-art infrastructure, and fosters collaborations with international counterparts – all indispensable elements of a vibrant research ecosystem.

Furthermore, supporting RIDT epitomizes an investment in Malta's global competitiveness. In an era where nations are gauged by their intellectual capital and innovative prowess, a robust research foundation assumes strategic significance. Projects supported by RIDT not only contribute to Maltese societal well-being but also bolster the nation's stature in the global knowledge economy.

 

The Broader Impact                  

As we advocate for RIDT's importance, it is imperative to recognize the broader ramifications of research and development on a nation's socio-economic fabric. Knowledge generated at the University of Malta holds the potential to catalyse entrepreneurship, spur economic growth, and tackle societal challenges, yielding dividends in terms of enhanced quality of life, heightened global competitiveness, and a sustainable future.

In summation, supporting research at the University of Malta rises above mere financial exigency; it represents a strategic necessity for the nation. The endeavours undertaken since RIDT's inception underscore the tangible dividends of sustained investment in research and development. By rallying behind RIDT, we are investing in a future where the University of Malta continues to serve as a beacon of intellectual excellence and a catalyst for positive change.

 

To learn more, visit www.ridt.org.mt.

 

Claudette Buttigieg is Senior Executive Officer, Research, Innovation and Development Trust (RIDT)