Academia
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Opposition Leader reaffirms commitment to advancing research at UM during recent visit
On Wednesday 29 October 2025, Opposition Leader Dr Alex Borg paid a visit to some of the University of Malta's research facilities, where he pledged support and assistance for research and innovation efforts that deliver tangible benefits for our society and beyond.
He was accompanied by shadow ministers Justin Schembri, Ivan J. Bartolo, Graham Bencini and Ryan Callus, and they were all warmly welcomed by University of Malta Rector, Prof. Alfred J. Vella.
They firstly attended a meeting at the University's Council Room, within the Msida Campus, where UM's Pro-Rector, Prof. Ing. Simon G. Fabri gave an overview of the University's research facilities. Prof. Fabri reiterated how, in line with its vision and mission, the University always strives to strengthen the quality of its research output by attracting high-calibre academics, researchers and doctoral students, providing enhanced research infrastructures, securing sustainable funding, promoting interdisciplinary R&I through research clusters, ensuring responsible integrity and ethics, encouraging public and community engagement with research and ensuring that the knowledge created translates to societal and economic benefits.
Dr Borg then proceeded to visit the Faculty of Engineering's ERIL Building as well as the Faculty of ICT labs, whereby he explored the university’s practical facilities and ongoing research initiatives, saying that all this provides the necessary tools for the University of Malta to continue empowering its students as they prepare to enter the professional world.
Prof. Vella expressed his gratitude to Dr Alex Borg, for recognising the importance of focusing attention on the need for research within this educational institution, which proudly ranks among the top 3% of universities worldwide.
