The Research and Innovation EXPO 2025 served as a celebration of Malta’s growing research and innovation ecosystem. The event brought together researchers, students and key stakeholders to explore more than 35 completed research projects funded through Xjenza Malta, covering a wide range of thematic areas including the blue and green economy, sustainability, health and wellbeing, engineering, and ICT.

The exhibition was organised in collaboration with Esplora, the Interactive Science Centre of Xjenza Malta, with the aim of strengthening knowledge-sharing and public engagement in research. The morning session was dedicated to secondary and post-secondary students, who had the opportunity to interact directly with researchers and discover the real-world impact of research on everyday life.

During the press conference that followed, the Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research and Innovation, Keith Azzopardi Tanti, opened the event and emphasised the importance of fostering stronger links between research, society and the economy. “Research and innovation are key drivers of sustainable progress. Today’s EXPO reflects our commitment to empower researchers, engage young people, and translate knowledge into impact. We are proud to showcase the concrete results of national investment in research and to act as a bridge towards further collaboration, ” stated the Parliamentary Secretary.

The programme continued with a panel discussion on how innovative research can be effectively translated into commercialisation and tangible social and economic benefits. The panel included representatives from academia, industry and government.

During the event, a documentary film was premiered for the first time, showcasing the story and impact of more than 35 research projects supported through ten different Xjenza Malta programmes. The film highlights the breadth, diversity and relevance of the work carried out by Maltese researchers.

This edition of the EXPO also introduced the first-ever Excellence Awards for Research and Innovation, recognising four outstanding achievements across different fields. Mr Silvio Scerri, Chief Executive Officer of Xjenza Malta, presented the awards and concluded the event with a speech emphasising the value of innovation and collaboration. “These awards celebrate the vision, dedication and creativity that drive Malta’s research ecosystem forward. By strengthening ties between academia, industry and policymakers, we are ensuring that local talent and ideas continue to make an impact both nationally and internationally,” said Mr Scerri.

The Research and Innovation EXPO 2025 continues to reaffirm Xjenza Malta’s mission to promote a culture of success, innovation and public engagement through science and technology.