The annual Science in the City festival is returning to bring science and research closer to the general public through a diverse programme uniting research, art, education, and creativity. Running under the inspiring theme "Research, Resist, Reimagine," this year's edition aims to spark curiosity, critical thinking, and public participation by demonstrating how research helps us understand the world, challenge existing systems, and envision new possibilities for the future.
The official launch of the festival was addressed by Minister for Justice, Research, and Innovation Clifton Grima and Minister for Education and Sport Byron Camilleri. Both ministers emphasized the importance of making science and research accessible to everyone while highlighting education's vital role in nurturing curiosity and critical skills among children and youth.
Minister Clifton Grima stressed that science and research should not remain confined to laboratories, universities, or academic publications. He noted that research directly impacts daily life, from health and climate resilience to digitalization, artificial intelligence, sustainable development, mobility, and environmental protection. Bringing these concepts into the community makes them relevant and understandable to all citizens.
Minister Byron Camilleri focused on the educational dimension of the festival, underlining the value of connecting science education with practical, real-world experiences. He explained that initiatives like Science in the City help students see the direct links between classroom learning and the world around them, inspiring younger generations to explore careers in science, mathematics, and technology.
Since its inception in 2012, Science in the City has grown significantly, expanding from around 12,000 attendees in its first edition to welcoming over 33,000 visitors annually. For the 2026 edition, more than 100 organizations, including research entities, cultural bodies, NGOs, student groups, and public sector partners, have registered to participate, with an estimated turnout of 35,000 visitors.
The festival's educational outreach extends directly into classrooms through the "Researchers at Schools" programme, which utilizes an STEAM approach to connect students with active researchers. For the 2026/2027 academic year, the programme aims to reach over 40 schools, 5,000 students, and 80 educators through interactive activities, problem-solving exercises, and professional development opportunities for teachers.
This year's programme features pre-festival events leading up to September 23, the main street festival on September 25 and 26, and a performance festival on November 6 and 7. Through collaboration between researchers, artists, educators, and the public, Science in the City continues to take science beyond traditional boundaries and directly into the heart of the community.