Active dialogue between the University Maritime Platform (UMP) and the Malta Maritime Forum (MMF) are underway to strengthen collaboration for tangible innovative science and knowledge-based implementation in the local maritime industries wishing to progress quickly in sustainable manner.

To this end, the Chairman and CEO of the MMF recently discussed ideas for collaboration and long-term priorities with the UMP Committee Chair Prof. Adriana Vella and Vice Chair, Dr Ritienne Gauci. The scope of the dialogue is for the MMF to give industry support to the initiatives under the University framework, as the UMP may guide with innovative research and scientific training opportunities through its members’ diverse expertise. To this end, the UMP has invited the MMF to nominate a representative to join UMP committee meetings. Both parties are engaged in discussions over the setting up of a Memorandum of Understanding as well as other ideas for fruitful collaboration. 

Mr Godwin Xerri, Chairman of the MMF commented “Clearly, a cross-fertilisation of ideas is mutually reinforcing in that the addition of an industry perspective is likely to improve the marketability of academic projects or accelerate their time to market. On the other hand, the addition of academic input would enhance the quality of policy proposals generated by industry”.

Prof. Adriana Vella, Chairperson of the UMP highlighted that “This exchange of ideas, visions for Malta’s Maritime industries and tangible actions to improve national and regional marine and maritime measures for sustainable development will pave the way to the necessary advancements in this sector.”

The UMP membership is open to all University of Malta Academic members of staff working directly or indirectly on aspects that are related to the marine and maritime fields.

Further information is available by contacting Prof. Adriana Vella by email.