The National STEAM Engagement Taskforce was officially launched at the Planetarium Hall, Esplora Interactive Science Centre in Kalkara.
The event was attended by Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research and Innovation Keith Azzopardi Tanti, Esplora senior director Mary Ann Cauchi, and heads of entities and their representatives involved in the taskforce.
The newly formed taskforce brought together diverse national stakeholders in education, research, industry and the arts, marking a significant milestone in Esplora’s evolution from STEM to STEAM.
This alliance signalled a national recognition that innovation and problem-solving depend not only on scientific and technical expertise but also on creativity, design thinking and other transversal skills traditionally associated with the arts.
Peers from across Malta’s education, research, industry and arts sectors confirmed their participation, including Arts Council Malta, Institute for Education, JobsPlus, Malta Chamber of Commerce, Malta Chamber of Engineers, Malta Chamber of Scientists, MATSEC, MCAST, MEIA, MEYR, National Skills Council, SME Chamber, Tech.mt and the University of Malta.
Together, these partners identified priority issues in STEAM education and employment, co-created initiatives to address them, shared data and insights, and advocated for evidence-based policy to accelerate meaningful change.
During the press launch, heads of entities and their representatives from each member organisation formally signed the Taskforce Charter, committing to collaborative action, evidence-based advice and the promotion of STEAM initiatives across Malta. The Charter establishes a framework for ongoing cooperation to strengthen Malta’s STEAM ecosystem and future-proof its workforce.
Presiding over the signing, Parliamentary Secretary Keith Azzopardi Tanti, said: “The launch of the National STEAM Engagement Taskforce represents a key step in aligning Malta’s education and workforce development with the demands of a rapidly changing world. By integrating arts with science and technology, we are fostering well-rounded individuals capable of driving innovation and sustaining economic growth.”
From her end, senior director at Esplora Interactive Science Centre Mary Ann Cauchi, said: “Esplora has always been a catalyst for curiosity and collaboration. This taskforce reflects our commitment to uniting diverse sectors under one national vision − a vision where education, research, industry, and the arts come together to equip Malta’s workforce with the skills, imagination, and resilience needed for the future. Through the National STEAM Engagement Taskforce, we are building bridges between science, creativity, and society.”
She added that STEAM education is not just about preparing young people for jobs − it’s about empowering them to think critically, act responsibly and contribute meaningfully to a sustainable and innovative Malta.
The launch of the National STEAM Engagement Taskforce represented a national milestone in advancing a holistic approach to education, innovation and workforce development, ensuring that Malta continues to nurture creativity, competitiveness and forward-thinking talent in the years ahead.
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