The University of Malta Senate has approved the establishment of the poverty research cluster PROMISE (Poverty Research Observatory for Malta: Investigate, Synthesise, Engage) within the Faculty for Social Wellbeing.

This pioneering research cluster, the first of its kind at the University of Malta, will spearhead multidisciplinary research initiatives to work towards the eradication of poverty in Malta over the next decade, and to contribute to a world free of poverty and inequality.

Key Details:

Mandate: Initial mandate of three years.

Leadership: Managed by an Executive Committee, chaired by Dr Edgar Galea Curmi, comprising academics, researchers, and potentially PhD candidates from the University of Malta, relevant local stakeholders, and representatives from civil society.

Focus areas (Pillars):

• Children and families
• Young people
• Working age
• Older people

Horizontal perspectives:

• Definition and measurement
• Context and drivers
• Migration and citizenship
• Policy levers and best practices

Support structures: An Advisory Committee will provide guidance to the Executive Committee, and a Stakeholders' Forum will offer input from broader society.

Launch and Next Steps: PROMISE is set to commence operations beginning October, with the first Executive Committee meeting scheduled in the coming weeks.

The University of Malta's launch of PROMISE represents a significant commitment to addressing poverty through comprehensive research and collaboration. This initiative holds great promise for improving the lives of individuals and families in Malta and beyond.

For more information about the research cluster, kindly send an email.