Essential technology is now available to people with disability through the Independent Living Hub that will allow them to lead a more independent life, the government said in a statement.

The secretariat for research and innovation said that the Independent Living Hub will provide persons with disability access to essential technology and support that will allow them to live a more independnent life with the hub being proof of the realization of digital inclusion in Malta and the need for practical and accessible solutions for those facing challenges in the digital world. It added that this initiative continues to confirm the continuous commitment of the government to strengthen the participation of all citizens in the digital age.

The secretariat said that the Foundation for Information Technology Accessibility (FITA)'s Independent Living Hub has been inaugurated marking a important step to strengthen digital inclusion for people with disability.

It said that this inauguration represents another steps in the FITA's mission to promote equal access to digital opportunities for all by ensuring that technology is a bridge to independence, employment and full participation in society for those who need it most.

It added that this project is the fruit of collaborations through the MOU signed by the University of Swansea, the Malta-Wales Initiative, local and international suppliers, the Association for Active Aging and Aġenzija Support.

Parliamentary Secretary for Research and Innovation Keith Azzopardi emphasized the importance of government investment in this sector in saying, "Within two and a half years, we increased the budget allocation to the FITA from €600,000 to €1.5 million. This unprecedented increase allows us to continue expanding the spread and impact of assistive technologies by ensuring that people with disability can live a more independent life."

"The opening of the Independent Living Hub reflects the commitment of the FITA to help people with disability to live a more independent life through technology. Our journey towards digital inclusivity let led by a vision to leave no one out and this hub will be instrumental to see this vision become a reality."