Microsoft Malta Limited hosted a high-level forum for senior executives, academic institutions and government representatives. The forum, which was held at the Hilton Conference Centre, aimed to address opportunities in industry, government and education powered by technology innovation, and the need for collaboration between academics, government personnel, and the business professionals towards the success of economy in Malta.

The keynote speaker at the forum was Jan Muehlfeit, Chairman Europe Microsoft Corporation. His role is to ensure that Microsoft continues to act as a trusted and valuable partner that listens and contributes to enabling long-term growth, economic competitiveness, job creation and innovation both in public and private sectors.

“This event is vital as it provides an ideal platform for academics and the business community to gain insight on Microsoft’s expertise and how business innovation can help to enrich Malta’s growth and economy,” said Mr Muehlfeit.

The forum was also addressed by Prof Richard Muscat, Pro Academic Rector at the University of Malta who spoke about how academic bodies in Malta encourage innovation in tomorrow’s entrepreneurs. He said: “Microsoft Malta has played an active role in driving ICT in Malta. We are ensuring that through their collaboration, we continue to encourage students to think innovatively and provide them with relevant technology skills, so that innovative entrepreneurship will flourish in Malta.”

Microsoft Malta country manager Pierre Mallia said: “Today, we are turning a spotlight on what the company is doing in terms of research and innovation by providing a glimpse of just a handful of technologies which will, and in some cases are, having an impact in education and the way we live. Although a small subsidiary, Microsoft Malta is committed to foster innovation in technology, in particular within the education field, to help develop the business leaders of tomorrow.”

The participants were then invited to visit the different stands to get acquainted with some of Microsoft’s latest innovative technologies, in areas such as software services, virtualisation, unified communications, surface computing and a preview on the upcoming Windows 7 + Office “14”.