Students’ CongreSS of Science and Sport in Split (ST-CongreSS) took place from 8 to 10 May 2024 in the beautiful city of Split, Croatia. ST-CongreSS is an interdisciplinary event that combines students' scientific congress with sports activities on the topic of healthy lifestyle. It provides a unique platform for students to showcase their academic achievements through oral or poster presentations while fostering collaboration among SEA-EU alliance universities and beyond.
The University of Malta was represented by 2 people who presented their research - Ms Vania Tabone (“The Motherhood Penalty and Fatherhood Bonus? A Case Study.”) and Ms Kimberly Fenech (“Investigation of the effect of pesticides commonly used and abused in Malta on the proteomic landscape of the colon lining and their role in the development and progression of colorectal cancer.”). The representatives themselves describe their experience very positively.
“I was selected to attend ST Congress to present a paper related to my PhD studies - said Ms Tabone. The paper includes an introduction background on my topic which is the motherhood penalty and fatherhood bonus but it specifically goes on to describe the mixed methodology which I will be adopting in my research study and the way Data Diffraction will be used to analyse all the findings.
The congress was interesting – on the first day it was about the blue economy. The talk consisted of a panel and we could ask questions. I suggested using the red economy in order to control the sustainability of marine activities. Tourism in Croatia makes 20% of the economy. The goal is to concentrate on the blue economy in order to keep the sea clean. One-third of the household’s waste finishes up in the sea. This costs 21 million euros and could end up in a crisis as in what happened during Covid 19. Blue economy means that citizens are able to make a living from maritime resources while safeguarding the marine environment.
My presentation was on the second day. Besides an oral presentation, I also had a poster presentation. The third day was dedicated to sports activities.
The feedback we received was very valuable and will be taken forward for analysis and potential inclusion in EU regulations.
“I had the opportunity to attend the SEA-EU ST-Congress in Split, Croatia where I presented my PhD research on the impact of pesticides on the molecular biology of colorectal cancer - reports Ms Fenech. This conference was a major gathering of students in a variety of fields including environmental science, biology, sports science, lifestyle medicine, psychology and education.
Throughout the conference, I actively participated in panel discussions and poster presentations and had the opportunity to receive feedback from peers and experts in the field. The conference allowed me to explore new perspectives in the prevention of chronic diseases and the importance of environmental sustainability not only in agriculture but also in marine environments.
I particularly appreciated that the conference centered on students' accomplishments, aspirations, and mental well-being throughout our academic paths, covering various subjects including the significance of restful sleep and a balanced diet. During networking breaks, I also had the opportunity to engage in friendly conversations with other students from different fields. Overall, I found my experience as a valuable opportunity for both personal and professional growth."