Photo: Prof. Alan Deidun delivering his speech

This morning, a brand new and technology-rich exhibition related to the maritime sector, was inaugurated at Esplora in Kalkara.

During the press conference, the Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research, and Innovation, Hon. Keith Azzopardi Tanti, together with Prof. Alan Deidun from the Department of Geosciences at the University of Malta, inaugurated this exhibition that makes use of various new technologies. These include holograms, to show the thriving life that is found beneath the sea surface in an interactive way, helping children envision a better maritime sector for the years to come.

The main aim of this project is to promote the use of technology in the maritime field especially in areas which are rich in biodiversity, which will contribute to environmental education purposes known as ocean literacy. This will entice more students to further their studies in this research field and also gain more knowledge about species and protected environments in Natura 2000 areas.

Other innovative and interactive technologies incorporated in this exhibition include the use of virtual reality and robots which help educate children and provide a clearer picture of the maritime sector.

Hon. Keith Azzopardi Tanti explained how the use of technology in the maritime sector is one of the pillars of the national Smart Specialisation strategy. He expressed that, "The exhibition we launched today is just the beginning, as this exhibition will continue to grow to complement the interactive experience already present at Esplora which will now also focus on maritime.”

Photo (left to right): Hon. Minister Keith Azzopardi Tanti & Prof. Alfred J. Vella, UM Rector 

Esplora's Senior Director, Olaf McKay, remarked how this exhibition, including holograms of whales and interactive robots, will enhance the visitor experience at Esplora. "This initiative clearly demonstrates that collective efforts are being made locally, to improve the science and technology sector. We are pleased to have this new permanent display that addresses the Maltese maritime research being conducted, whilst we look forward to other similar initiatives in our drive to deliver science in the most interesting and interactive way."

Prof. Alan Deidun, lecturer at the University of Malta and Maltese Ambassador for the Ocean, expressed gratitude for this permanent space provided by Esplora, through which one can enjoy the underwater world both in a virtual as well as in an interactive way.

The Rector of the University of Malta, Prof. Alfred J. Vella commended the inauguration of such an interactive display at Esplora – a centre which welcomes numerous students every year. He stressed on the need to foster such concepts at an early stage to increase the awareness needed within the future generations of local maritime researchers. He concluded by saying, "We are pleased that Esplora acknowledges the importance of collaborating in research efforts with the University, such as this announced today."