Over the past four years, the State of the Nation conference has established itself as an important national platform for reflection and dialogue about the evolving identity, aspirations, and challenges of Maltese society. Now in its fifth edition, the conference continues to build on this foundation by providing scientific analysis, expert insight, and informed discussion.
This year, the conference will focus on education in its broadest sense — exploring how developments such as technology and social change are influencing learning, personal development, and the future of our nation.
It will analyse every stage of education: from childcare and kindergarten to primary, secondary, and tertiary education – one that shapes all aspects of life from the earliest stages and continues to influence society across generations.
Is the educational system addressing the mental challenges brought about by this change in how students and educators think and meet their challenges?
With the advent of ChatGPT and several other AI tools, are tertiary students really being encouraged to think without limits?
The conference will take place on 6 June at Verdala Palace, and will be led by Strategic Communications Consultant Lou Bondi and Statistician, Researcher and Associate Professor at the Department of Business & Enterprise Management, Prof. Vincent Marmara, under the patronage of the President of Malta, Myriam Spiteri Debono.
As in previous years, the conference will be based on scientific research carried out among Maltese and Gozitan citizens.
Prof. Marmara explains that this survey provides an important snapshot of public sentiment before discussions begin, allowing for a more scientifically grounded analysis of what defines and influences the Maltese people.
During the launch event, the President emphasised how the ultimate aim of the conference is to analyse how the thoughts and aspirations of the Maltese people are evolving, expressing hope that its outcomes will assist leaders at various levels in planning for the future.
Offering a clearer picture of societal changes, such as technological advances, the course of globalisation, instant communication, the rise of social media, the blending of cultural influences, and the cult of personality among others, the yearly conference results are giving insight into how Malta is defining itself.
The public is encouraged to register their interest to attend the conference by emailing stattannazzjon@gov.mt.
Registration is free.
