Public Debate on Ethics and Artificial Intelligence at the Faculty of ICT

On Monday 12 January 2026, the Department of Artificial Intelligence within the Faculty of Information & Communication Technology at the University of Malta organised a well-attended Public Debate on Ethics & Artificial Intelligence, held at the Faculty of ICT. The event brought together students, academics, policymakers, and members of the public to explore the ethical, social, and governance challenges arising from the rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence.

The debate formed part of an assessed learning activity within a study-unit offered in the Artificial Intelligence undergraduate degree programme, and was led by final-year AI undergraduate students. Through this public forum, students were given the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world ethical dilemmas, develop critical argumentation skills, and engage directly with diverse audiences beyond the classroom.

The event was formally opened by Prof. Ing. Carl Debono, Dean of the Faculty of ICT, who welcomed attendees and underlined the Faculty’s commitment to responsible innovation, public engagement, and the development of ethically-aware computing professionals. He stressed the importance of embedding ethical reflection within technical curricula, particularly in fast-evolving fields such as AI.

The debate was hosted by Prof. Matthew Montebello, Head of the Department of Artificial Intelligence, who contextualised the discussion within current global developments in AI research, deployment, and regulation. Prof. Montebello highlighted how initiatives such as this debate play a crucial role in preparing AI graduates to navigate the societal responsibilities that accompany technical expertise.

A distinguished guest for the evening was Hon. Ray Abela, Member of Parliament and Chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Information Technology and Artificial Intelligence Affairs. Hon. Abela addressed the audience on the policy and legislative implications of AI, emphasising the need for evidence-based regulation, ethical governance frameworks, and sustained dialogue between academia, industry, and policymakers.

The student-led debate explored a range of contemporary themes, including Generative AI, Explainable AI, Algorithmic Design, Human-Centred AI, and the Future of Work. Students critically examined issues such as algorithmic bias, transparency and accountability, automation and employment, and the societal impact of increasingly autonomous systems. The format encouraged rigorous discussion, rebuttal, and audience participation, transforming the assessment into an authentic public engagement exercise.

Audience members actively contributed to the discussion, posing questions and challenging viewpoints, while students demonstrated both technical understanding and ethical sensitivity in responding to complex and sometimes contested issues. The exercise highlighted the value of experiential and inquiry-based assessment approaches within the AI curriculum.

In the post-event remarks, Prof. Montebello commended the students for their professionalism, depth of analysis, and confidence in addressing ethical challenges in a public setting. Hon. Abela likewise praised the initiative, noting the importance of nurturing future AI professionals who are not only technically proficient but also ethically grounded and socially responsible.

The event concluded with light refreshments in the faculty's foyer, where informal discussions among attendees were held, and reaffirmed the Department of Artificial Intelligence’s commitment to integrating ethics, public discourse, and real-world engagement into AI education.