The IOI-Malta Operational Centre at the University of Malta, in collaboration with the Malta Council for Science and Technology, is set to host a half-day seminar on January 27, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Corinthia San Gorg in St Julian’s. The seminar aims to provide an overview of key issues and trends in marine research and related developments within Malta, framed by international drivers, particularly focusing on Malta’s role in the Mediterranean region.
This event serves as a critical platform for sharing and consolidating ideas, as well as for synergizing initiatives related to marine affairs. It is anticipated that discussions will yield significant insights into the research and innovation pace necessary for steering Malta’s marine sector towards a sustainable future. The seminar is expected to highlight emerging opportunities and strategize effective pathways to achieve established goals.
A key focus of the seminar will be on Malta’s imperative to develop a comprehensive marine environmental monitoring program, including the establishment of a coastal sea operational observing system. This is crucial for the country to meet its environmental obligations as a member of the European Union.
The seminar coincides with the fifth Meeting of the MAMA/MedGOOS project, bringing together prominent marine scientists from the Mediterranean region, along with representatives from essential marine research centers involved in ocean monitoring and forecasting.
Opening the seminar will be Malta’s Prime Minister, followed by keynote speeches and presentations from both national and international experts. Attendees will have the opportunity to review ongoing, planned, and potential developments in marine research within Malta. The forum aims to enhance discussions around marine research, technological development, and innovation, emphasizing both local and regional needs and aspirations.
The first part of the seminar will explore the regional context of Malta’s role in fostering EU-Mediterranean cooperation in the marine sector, as part of a future Euro-Med Research Area. The latter half will focus on recent local initiatives related to marine observations and environmental monitoring. An engaging poster session will also be organized to showcase a variety of related projects.
Invitations to the seminar extend to key stakeholders within the marine sector, including public and private organization leaders, governmental agencies, authorities, and representatives from marine industries and services. Noteworthy invitees include representatives from ministries related to marine affairs, national representatives and focal points to the European Commission, marine research management community members, and leading marine scientists.
For more information regarding the seminar, interested individuals can contact Dr. Aldo Drago or Matthew Scerri via email, or visit the dedicated website for further details.
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