UM part of on National STEAM Engagement Taskforce launched at Esplora

A National STEAM Engagement Taskforce was launched on Monday, 24 November 2025, at the Esplora Interactive Science Centre. The taskforce will be co-chaired by Dr Edward Duca from the Department of Mathematics and Science Education within the Faculty of Education, with support from the Marketing, Communications and Alumni Office, led by Science Engagement Senior Executive Dr Danielle Martine Farrugia .

The event was attended by Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research and Innovation Keith Azzopardi Tanti, Esplora Senior Director Mary Ann Cauchi, and heads of entities and their representatives involved in the Taskforce.

The newly formed Taskforce brought together diverse national stakeholders in education, research, industry, and the arts, marking a significant milestone in Esplora’s evolution from STEM to STEAM. This alliance signalled a national recognition that innovation and problem-solving depend not only on scientific and technical expertise but also on creativity, design thinking, and other transversal skills traditionally associated with the arts.

Other peers from across Malta’s education, research, industry, and arts sectors confirmed their participation, including Arts Council Malta, Institute for Education, JobsPlus, Malta Chamber of Commerce, Malta Chamber of Engineers, Malta Chamber of Scientists, MATSEC, MCAST, MEIA, MEYR, National Skills Council, SME Chamber, and Tech.mt.

During the press launch, heads of entities and their representatives from each member organisation formally signed the Taskforce Charter, committing to collaborative action, evidence-based advice, and the promotion of STEAM initiatives across Malta. The Charter establishes a framework for ongoing cooperation to strengthen Malta’s STEAM ecosystem and future-proof its workforce.

The launch of the National STEAM Engagement Taskforce represented a national milestone in advancing a holistic approach to education, innovation, and workforce development, ensuring that Malta continues to nurture creativity, competitiveness, and forward-thinking talent in the years ahead.

Presiding over the signing, Parliamentary Secretary Keith Azzopardi Tanti, said, “The launch of the National STEAM Engagement Taskforce represents a key step in aligning Malta’s education and workforce development with the demands of a rapidly changing world. By integrating arts with science and technology, we are fostering well-rounded individuals capable of driving innovation and sustaining economic growth.”