The projects that will receive funding under the 2024 scheme by the National STEM Community Fund were officially announced.

The National STEM Community Fund is managed by the National STEM Engagement Working Group, under Science Malta, in collaboration with Esplora.

The fund aims to encourage local communities to identify and solve challenges using STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) alongside professionals in the same field.

Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research, and Innovation Keith Azzopardi Tanti mentioned how the National STEM Community Fund enables local communities to address local issues through STEM, while also creating innovative opportunities for citizens.

The selected projects are:

The Dwejra Lines Project, to be conducted by the Malta Chamber of Scientists. This project will involve citizens working with researchers to design an information-gathering system on the flora and fauna around the Dwejra Lines.

Botanical Bridges: Linking Education and Environment, conducted by Sacred Heart College, where students will create a garden at the school to learn about biodiversity and environmental responsibility.

Tech Beyond Borders, to be conducted by the Grand Harbour Regional Council. Through this project, children will have the opportunity to learn about innovative technologies like VR sets while exploring the history of the Grand Harbour.

DRIVE STEM, by the Chamber of Engineers. The initiative aims to attract more women to careers in engineering through videos from STEM professionals.

"The National STEM Community Fund is a key component of Esplora's vision to ensure that STEM plays a role in addressing current challenges. With global issues like climate change, digital transformation, and sustainability, STEM education is more important than ever," government said.

CEO of Science Malta Silvio Scerri said that this fund empowers local communities to identify challenges and solve them with the help of STEM professionals, making science more accessible.

Chairperson of the ISTEM Engagement Working Group Rebecca Buttigieg said that the fund is having a positive impact on Maltese and Gozitan communities, and they look forward to the results of the new projects.