Evolution never stops. Our communities are no different. Research providess the innovation needed to support that advance. The latest issue of THINK magazine looks into a range of projects at the University of Malta that are contributing to a better society.
Dr Franco Curmi and his team have designed a baton that enables one runner to rope in a crowd of followers on social media to raise funds for good causes. A community of online supporters can contribute by logging in to the Heartlink platform and donate to cheer the runner on.
In another story, Prof. Carmel Cefai and his team are working on an innovative programme to develop resilience in children. They have created targeted manuals for use in the classroom and at home by children, teachers and parents to learn this all-important skill which will help them through the hard times.
Society needs clean energy for a healthier country. The Maltese government has grappled with this issue for years and it continues to be a point of contention among many groups. Work at University offers a solution. At the Faculty of Engineering, wind and waves are being combined in a system that will work to both cool and power buildings.
On a related green note, Prof. Shirley Ann Micallef’s work focuses on the provision of cleaner food.
Looking inwardly, this edition also re-addresses history and, by extension, Maltese identity. Prof. Nicholas Vella and his team are uncovering lost stories from the neolithic Kordin III site, while Prof. Mallia Milanes puts to bed some myths surrounding the world-famous Great Siege of Malta.
But perhaps the most important part of being human is leaving this world a better place. And this is where the RIDT comes in. They have just launched a new initiative to encourage people to leave legacy gifts for research—a chance to leave a positive mark on Malta’s future.
