On 10 January 2023, the student representatives of the Islands and Small States Institute (ISSI) of the University of Malta hosted a Zoom meeting for students and alumni, providing a platform for two current students to present their research to an engaged audience of 11 participants. This meeting offered a unique opportunity for the students to share their findings, receive feedback, and network with alumni and other students from different countries who have established successful careers in their respective fields.
The first presentation was given by Claire Gauci, a 1st year PhD student. Claire discussed her research on “Building resilience to extreme events in small island states: nudging nutrition”, and the potential presented by food security solutions in increasing resilience to climate change and pandemics as interconnected crises. Participants engaged with the topic and discussed Ms Gauci’s research methodology and the innovative solutions she proposed for her research.
The second presentation was given by Ms Penda Choppy, a third year PhD student based in Seychelles and director of the Creole Language and Culture Research Institute at the University of the Seychelles. Ms Choppy’s research focused on Creativity, Creolization and Identity in Seychellois Creole Folktales. The presentation was particularly useful to prepare for her viva that was eventually held in Malta at the end of January.
The meeting also provided an opportunity for networking, as students and alumni shared their experiences and offered valuable feedback to the presenters and an opportunity to talk with other students based in other countries. The meeting was a great success and a valuable learning experience for all those involved.
The institute is proud of the achievements of its students and is committed to providing opportunities for them to showcase their work and connect with all UM alumni. The institute encourages students to participate in research and other extracurricular activities to enhance their learning experience and prepare them for successful careers. The institute plans to continue to hold similar meetings in the future to provide students with opportunities to present their research and connect with alumni, including opening it up to all UM students and alumni.
For further details please contact the student representatives by sending an email to Luca Nguyen or by phone +356 23402117 and by email to Claire Gauci.
