T he U niversity of M alta ~ R esearch , I nnovation & D evelopment T rust A nnual R eport 2013
The University of Malta ~ Research, I innovation & DevelopmentTrust Annual Report 2013
RIDTaims to strengthen investment in high-calibre research and development across every faculty and department within the University, and on a national level, and to foster the commercial exploitation of this research. Our Aim and Vision
The Research, Innovation and Development Trust
of the University of Malta provides the strategic set-up to attract corporate and individual funds that facilitate world-class research activities
which improve every citizen’s quality of life.
University of Malta
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Università ta’ Malta
T he U niversity of M alta ~ R esearch , I nnovation & D evelopment T rust A nnual R eport 2013
CONTENTS 2 Chairman’s Message 4 CEO’s Review 6 Board of Directors 8~13 Research in Practice 14 Through the Media 16 Outreach Activities 16~21 Highlights of the Year 22 Financial Statements 24 RIDT Donors
Without change innovation creati for improvemen initiate change w opportunity to change that is in Chairman’s Message
Investment in University is investment for the country’s future Investing in research is a long-term undertaking. When the University of Malta and the Government launched the Research, Innovation and Development Trust (RIDT), we knew that we were in for the long haul. We were asking the community to participate in the financing of our research projects. Achieving this required a culture change, and normally these changes take time to happen. However, we also knew that the University was ready for this new challenge. A number of important steps had already been taken in the previous years, paving the way for this mission, including strong investment in research facilities, such as laboratories, a super computer cluster and our library, investment in our human resources, and a drive to encourage students to continue their studies after finishing their first degrees.
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We now depended on the Maltese community, and even here we were very confident that we were going to garner the support that our University deserves. There is no doubting the fact that our community is very generous, and can recognise a good cause that deserves support. It is therefore my great pleasure to report that 2013 was a very significant year for RIDT and for its objectives. We received donations from a wide range of sectors that form our society – foundations, corporates, individuals and last but not least students and academics. This is indeed a strong indication that the culture change that we required was beginning to materialise. While recognising that the amounts raised need to increase, I feel it my duty to thank all those who have made their contribution, large or small, for believing in our mission and supporting it.
there is no ivity, or incentive nt. Those who will have a better o manage the nevitable.William G. Pollard T he U niversity of M alta ~ ~ R esearch esearch, I nnovation nnovation & D evelopment T rust A nnual R eport 2013
“Without change there is no innovation, creativity, or incentive for improvement. Those who initiate change will have a better opportunity to manage the change that is inevitable.” William G. Pollard – Nuclear Physicist
The University of Malta has been here for over 420 years, and it has served its mission splendidly. It has produced our leaders, entrepreneurs, thinkers and experts who did their country proud. For our University to retain a pivotal role in Malta’s economic and social development, we now need to transform ourselves and expand our research activity ranging from the fundamental, curiosity-driven studies to the result-driven, applied research. For this to happen, we continue to rely on the generosity of the Maltese community, and I thank you in advance for your support. Investment in the University of Malta is an investment in the future of our country.
Professor Juanito Camilleri Chairman – Board of Trustees
CEO’s Review A new trend in research funding The year 2013 was an important year for the Research, Innovation and Development Trust. Not because we managed to raise enormous amounts of money, but because we have seen very clear signals coming from the community. Signals that fill us with encouragement and with hope that one day, and that day might not be far away, University research will find its place as a recognised good cause that deserves the support of society. Our objective for the first years of the Trust was to establish ourselves well within the Maltese society and to create the necessary awareness about the important work that is being carried out within the University of Malta. We always believed that once we show what is already happening, and once we explain its benefits to society, fundraising will be a natural follower. Our collective effort to expose the research activity, the researchers and how their work is affecting our lives seems to have been noticed. While we continued our programme of engagement with various sectors of society, we also experienced the first cases of society reaching out to us with the scope of raising funds for research. Two non-governmental organisations joined forces to raise funds for breast cancer research, and donated €55,000 which will fund a Ph.D. in this area of study. Other organisations followed suit, confirming that this was not a one-off occurrence, but probably the early signs of a trend in the making. Around Christmas, the students and staff of the University decided to raise funds for a number of local charities, including cancer research, via the RIDT.
At the same time, the faculty of engineering initiated a research programme financed by the Malta Freeport Terminals Ltd through the RIDT. The programme comprises a number of research projects conducted by Masters degree students in areas which have been identified by a joint working group made up of officials from Malta Freeport Terminals and the Faculty. Similar initiatives have taken off following donation agreements with a number of corporates coming from various sectors, including banking, IT and electronics. These, and others, are the positive signals that we have been receiving from society during 2013. Signals that have continued to demonstrate themselves in the first quarter of 2014, clearly indicating that a trend is being set. The RIDT is exceptionally grateful to all those who have come forward and donated funds towards our cause. My appreciation also goes towards all those academics and other individuals who, in one way or another, have helped RIDT in reaching out to the public through their sterling work and relentless efforts.
Wilfred Kenely Chief Executive Officer
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Just as energy is the basis of life itself, and ideas the source of innovation so is innovation the vital spark of all human change, improvement and progress T he U niversity of M alta ~ R esearch , I nnovation & D evelopment T rust A nnual R eport 2013
Ted Levitt
“Just as energy is the basis of life itself, and ideas the source of innovation so is innovation the vital spark of all human change, improvement and progress.� Ted Levitt – Economist
To be competitive, an ec research. To be sustainab receive funds to be carrie and importance it dese Board of Directors
The RIDT is governed by a Board of Trustees appointed in terms of a Trust Deed signed on the 18th April 2011. As specified in Legal Notice 186 of 2010 Education Act (Cap. 327) the Board of Trustees is composed of not less than three and not more than seven members, one of which is the Rector of the University of Malta ex officio, together with at least two of the following: the President of the Council of the University of Malta ex officio; the Governor of the Central Bank of Malta ex officio; the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance ex officio; two other persons appointed by the Prime Minister from amongst the members of the Council of the University of Malta.
Embracing the culture of giving To be competitive, an economy requires research. To be sustainable, research needs to receive funds to be carried out with the dignity and importance it deserves. Long-term financial sustainability of research is a challenge that universities around Europe are facing. On the other hand, the same universities are pivotal for Europe’s economic recovery, particularly through their research activity. This means that universities have to continue to explore alternative ways to finance their world-class research. The financial crisis that has gripped Europe in the past years has accelerated this trend, putting more pressure on universities to release the potential of philanthropy for research. That Malta still lags behind in its expenditure in research and development is a known fact. Despite the fact that there has been considerable improvement in the past decade, there is still a long road ahead. The situation needs to be treated as urgent, since investment in research and development is not an option for European countries. It is a mission. Only such investment can guarantee a sustainable economic stability for countries, and will give the European Union a fair chance to realise its ambition to become truly competitive. 6
The largest proportion of research in Malta, whether fundamental or applied, is done in our University. This activity has benefitted greatly from the substantial investment in research infrastructures within various departments of the University of Malta. The investment, mainly in the form of laboratory equipment, has been largely financed through the European Regional Development Fund. At the same time, the much necessary research funding, which is required by any university to attract and retain the finest researchers, remains scarce. The main funding streams have remained the meagre government budgetary allocation and the competitive funding programmes, particularly the European Framework Programme, now rebranded as Horizon 2020. On a much smaller scale, Malta also offers the National Research Programme (R&I). Both programmes are undoubtedly essential and provide unique opportunities to our researchers. Still they come with a variety of strings attached, making research decisions less unrestricted.
conomy requires ble, research needs to ed out with the dignity erves.
T he U niversity of M alta ~ R esearch , I nnovation & D evelopment T rust A nnual R eport 2013
“To be competitive, an economy requires research. To be sustainable, research needs to receive funds to be carried out with the dignity and importance it deserves.”
From left to right: Professor Juanito Camilleri, Rector of the University of Malta – ex officio; Dr Michael Sciriha, President of the Council of the University of Malta, from March 2013; Ms Bernie Mizzi, served till March 2013 – ex officio; Professor Josef Bonnici, Governor of The Central Bank of Malta – ex officio; Mr Alfred Camilleri, Permanent Secretary, Ministry for Finance – ex officio; Mr Anthony J. Tabone, appointed by the Prime Minister of Malta; Mr Winston V. Zahra, appointed by the Prime Minister of Malta.
In this scenario, the University of Malta, just like most other European Universities, is creating the necessary environment which will help it generate substantial additional research funding from sources alternative to government – local or European. Established by virtue of a Legal Notice in April 2011, the Research, Innovation and Development Trust has been tasked to be the instrument that will raise the necessary funds for furthering the advancement of research in all areas of study, knowledge and activity in Malta. Over the past three years, RIDT has embarked on a twopronged campaign. The first objective of the campaign was to raise the public’s knowledge of the excellent research that is happening within the University of Malta. Using a variety of platforms and initiatives, ranging from social media campaigns to participation in radio programmes, this awareness-raising exercise is proving to be effective, not least due to the support it receives from the University’s own THINK quarterly research publication. The second objective is more arduous, yet perfectly possible. The RIDT set out to introduce and promote a culture of giving to University research.
The Maltese community, and the various sectors that form it, are being asked to consider University research as another good cause that deserves philanthropic support. RIDT entirely believes that this culture can provide the long-term sustainability for our University and will play an important role in enhancing Malta’s economic competitiveness. Such models have long been established in many European countries, with more and more universities depending to some degree, to philanthropic funding for their research activities. This in no way absolves the government’s obligation to keep supporting financially University research. Government financing remains crucial and needs to be boosted if we are to correct the current situation with regard to research expenditure in Malta. Government should also consider other ways of supporting research funding, particularly by introducing schemes such as the ‘matching funds’ scheme, whereby private donations of a certain amount trigger a matching donation from the government. Such schemes have been applied with undisputed success in a number of European countries and have helped boost the flow of private donations.
Research in Practice
Financial support for Resear and Development at the Univ of Malta is fundamental to its growth as a research institu The resulting benefits to th country’s economy and competitiveness cannot b overstated. Dr Ing. Maurice A “Financial support for Research and Development at the University of Malta is fundamental to its growth as a research institution. The resulting benefits to the country’s economy and competitiveness cannot be overstated.” Dr Ing. Maurice Apap
Feasibility of electrical load demand at Freeport terminal Malta Freeport Terminals and the University of Malta entered into a five-year funding agreement to conduct multiple research studies relevant to the organisation. Here is what a team of researchers is looking into to propose a more sustainable operation. When Malta Freeport Terminals (MFT) entered into discussions with the University of Malta on ways of collaboration in research, it was with one specific aim in mind – to carry out an advanced study in areas of interest for the Freeport. The first two research projects identified 8
were a study of the High Voltage (HV) Power Network at MFT and a study of the degradation of internal combustion engines through corrosion of the cooling system. Following in-depth meetings and a thorough selection of applicants, Joseph Azzopardi was selected to carry out this project until the end of next year, under the supervision of Dr Cedric Caruana and Prof. Ing. Cyril Spiteri Staines. During this time, Mr Azzopardi will be performing an extensive study of the electrical load demand at MFT.
T he U niversity of M alta ~ R esearch , I nnovation & D evelopment T rust A nnual R eport 2013
rch versity s ution. he be
Apap
Top photo – From left to right: Dr Ing. Maurice Apap, Head of Industrial Electrical Power Conversion; Dr Cedric Caruana, Project Supervisor Bottom photo – Signing of agreement between Malta Freeport Terminals and the RIDT in 2012.
This will include monitoring of loading of HV cable, studying electrical power demand over time, power factor and current harmonics. Typical loads at MFT such as key cranes and refrigerated containers will be studied with the objective of identifying the extent to which the capacity of the HV power network is being utilised, quantifying further loading that can be supplied by the existing network and studying effects of introducing additional cranes in the network. The potential benefits of installing power factor correction equipment within the network will also be analysed.
The results of this research project are expected to benefit MFT by providing a detailed assessment of their electrical infrastructure and identify measures and potential for increased capacity. The applied nature of this project underscores the relevance of research carried out by University. It is hoped that support from industry and the wider community to University research and development will grow further for the improvement of industry and the economy.
Research in Practice
You can survive breast cancer. Research improves your chances. The year 2013 was a breakthrough for RIDT. For the first time ever, a group of ALIVE cyclists through the Action for Breast Cancer Foundation came up with the innovative idea to cycle through Europe to raise funds to finance a Ph.D. in breast cancer. The first clear historical description of breast cancer can be found in Egyptian hieroglyphic writings of over 5,000 years ago and some forms of treatment were already in use by Greek and Roman physicians. It is not surprising that the initial treatment method was surgery. During the Middle Ages, mostly based on philosophical and non-scientific basis, medical treatment was added to the arsenal of possible treatment. The 20th century saw the real change in the treatment of breast cancer from actual, scientifically-based, surgical treatment, together with the addition of radiotherapy and chemotherapy to, in the last 30 years or so, the addition of targeted chemotherapy. The improvement in therapy has increased the survival rates for breast cancer to over 98%. For the past five years, the departments of Pathology, Physiology and Biochemistry, Anatomy and Clinical Pharmacology at the University of Malta, and the Department of Surgery and the Clinical and Molecular Genetics Clinic of Mater Dei, have collaborated on an ongoing research project on breast cancer. The main aim of the research is to establish a definitive molecular diagnosis and utilise biomarkers to predict the outcome of therapy. Dr Godfrey Grech and Prof. Christian Scerri are the principal investigators. A Ph.D. sponsored by ALIVE cyclists through the Action for Breast Cancer Foundation and the Research, Innovation and Development Trust of the University of Malta continues to contribute to this study. The identification of new pathways and biomolecules related to breast cancer has the potential to open new doors in the early detection of breast cancer, an improvement in the characterisation of the cancer as well as the identification of newer targeted therapy. It is hoped that such breakthroughs would improve the quality of life of all breast cancer survivors, bringing the survival rate nearer to 100%.
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Photo: Prof. Christian Scerri and Dr Godfrey Grech (standing).
T he U niversity of M alta ~ R esearch , I nnovation & D evelopment T rust A nnual R eport 2013
€55,000 to conquer breast cancer The ALIVE Charity Foundation is indeed the first organisation in Malta to collect funds from the community towards medical research. Thirty-eight adventurous cyclists forming the Malta Airport – ALIVE2013 Cycling Challenge for Cancer participated in last year’s cycling event which challenged them both physically and mentally. They cycled over 800km taking them from London to Brussels to Paris. Besides long hours of regular training, the participants raised funds through other various events and also from the generous community at large. They also encouraged a number of sponsors to believe in this new cause and offer their complete support. This was not just another donation from an NGO towards a good cause; it was a historical breakthrough. The donation of €55,000 is financing a three-year Ph.D. in the Department of Physiology and Biochemistry within the Faculty of Medicine. The historical breakthrough lies in the fact that this was the first time that a local NGO raised funds from the community to support research.
Over the years, research around the world has managed to eradicate a number of diseases which used to send shivers down people’s spines when mentioned. Smallpox, measles, tuberculosis were massive killers, but today they are either totally eradicated or treatable. This was achieved because research institutions were given the necessary resources to study the diseases and come up with treatments. One day, we will be talking of cancer as a ‘has-been’ terrible disease. And that day can be sooner than we think, so long as there is an aggressive research programme in place.
Helen Muscat’s last good cause to fight breast cancer The Action for Breast Cancer Foundation (ABCF) has always been at the forefront to lobby and contribute tangibly to fight breast cancer. Whether providing equipment to hospital, pushing for prevention measures against the loathed disease, or catering for material to give breast cancer patients a better quality of life, ABCF has a pivotal role in standing by the right side of suffering people. When a group of cyclists from the Alive Foundation approached ABCF to raise funds in their aid, the organisation, under the chair of the late Helen Muscat, came up with the most brilliant idea. What better way to improve chances of fighting the disease than researching into it? That is how RIDT became a beneficiary of the funds and today is proud to support a Ph.D. into breast cancer research. This was Helen’s last mission in her charitable career before she passed silently away, but behind her she left the most pronounced message – breast cancer may kill you, but research is the way to potentially prevent it and stop it in time.
Research in Practice Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing (Hons) 4th year students with visiting professor Dr Ana Canhoto and Dr Tanya Sammut-Bonnici, Head of Department of Marketing within the Faculty of Economics, Management and Accountancy.
Chair in digital marketing The landscape of today’s communications and marketing strategies is changing rapidly and digital marketing is a sector companies, big and small, are investing in to get their message across in the most cost-effective and focused manner. The Alfred Mizzi Foundation donated funds to the Research, Innovation and Development Trust of the University of Malta to establish the Alfred Mizzi Foundation Chair in Digital Marketing. The post was created at the Department of Marketing, led by
Dr Tanya Sammut-Bonnici, within the Faculty of Economics, Management and Accountancy. The corporate sponsorship has strengthened the Department of Marketing’s academic programme through the engagement of visiting lecturer Dr Ana Canhoto, an external academic with international experience in the field of digital marketing. Dr Canhoto has already been in Malta, applying her expertise to promote industry knowledge relevant to digital marketing with students and with managers at the Alf. Mizzi & Sons group of companies.
The Central Bank of Malta Chair in Economics The agreement with the Central Bank of Malta establishing a Chair in Economics is an important arrangement which helps to enhance the academic level at the Department of Economics by providing sponsorships for up to three visiting professors in Economics from top Universities. The agreement, spanning over four years, came into force in May 2012 and provides a donation to the RIDT of €27,000 each year, which is directed to the Faculty of Economics, Management and Accountancy of the University of Malta. In 2013, the Department had three study units in year four of its study programme delivered by visiting professors, namely Intermediate Econometrics – Prof. Stuart Hyde; Global Economic Issues and Policies – Prof. John Thornton; 12
and International Corporate and Wholesale Markets – Prof. Barry Howcroft. The number of students specialising in Economics in 2013 was nine. The foreign professors were are also engaged by the Central Bank of Malta to participate and deliver research papers, carry out specialised research on topics and provide consultancy services as indicated by the Bank. The involvement of foreign professors has been instrumental in raising the profile of the Department and providing a unique opportunity for fourth year students. Indirectly, it has lifted standards across the Department with University of Malta academic staff interacting on a regular basis with foreign professors.
T he U niversity of M alta ~ R esearch , I nnovation & D evelopment T rust A nnual R eport 2013
Taking international trade to the next level The Banking and Finance Department of the University of Malta and FIMBank have joined forces to offer for the first time ever a Certificate of Finance in International Trade (COFIT). The certification allows students increased competence when playing on the competitive international trade scene. This programme is in six modules covering a wide area of aspects in this complex sector. Lecturing sessions are offered by University of Malta academics, FIMBank staff, and other trade finance specialists affiliated with the International Factors Group (IFG). The logistics of the course are being co-ordinated by the Banking and Finance Department of the University of Malta and FIMBank p.l.c. FIMBank p.l.c. is an international trade finance specialist with an established reputation as a dynamic and customerdriven provider of trade finance solutions to corporates, banks and individuals worldwide. International Factors Group is the worldwide trade association for the commercial finance industry, active since 1963. IFG supports the development of the industry in new countries and facilitates international business between members. IFG fosters networking and alliances across the industry, represents and informs the industry and is globally recognised as a competence centre for the sector.
The principal objective of the COFIT programme is to deliver a competitive, industry-focused educational programme that will provide the tools needed to achieve professional development goals in international trade. The course is accredited with 30 ECTS credits and features a particular emphasis on the practical aspects of real life international trade scenarios. This innovative programme provides a sound framework for those seeking a career in this field or supplementing their practical experience by pursuing further academic studies. The academic and practical aspects of the course are thus intended to complement each other. The presentation of real life international trade scenarios will equip participants with the skills needed to cope with the increasingly complex global trade finance world. The six respective modules which comprise the certificate focus on various aspects such as the financial instruments and practices which are frequently encountered in international trade, law and international policies, marketing, the challenges which are present when interacting across different cultures, interpreting accounting and economic data, risks involved in international trade and how such risks may be mitigated. By the end of the intensive six-week programme, students will be able to understand and evaluate the factors shaping today’s international trading environment. It was encouraging to note a significant interest in this course even from overseas-based participants.
Through the Media
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T he U niversity of M alta ~ R esearch , I nnovation & D evelopment T rust A nnual R eport 2013
How the media boosts support for research Since its inception, the Research, Innovation and Development Trust of the University of Malta has striven to provide strategic leadership among organisations and donors to explain that investment in research is not just another CSR programme, but an investment in their business and in Malta’s innovation as a country within competitive Europe.
With the help of the media, which is understanding the rationale behind the RIDT, we are driving the point home that investing in research improves education, creates jobs and steers youth toward careers in disciplines that improve our quality of life, all while increasing our society’s knowledge and provide better educational and economic opportunities for our country and its citizens.
There are competitive research opportunities to tap in all disciplines at the University of Malta and the media, a powerful tool in the art of persuasion and education, has taken note of that.
Our aim, and the media is helping us in this, is that in time, research and innovation will be the number one drivers of Malta’s new, diverse and prosperous society in line with the government’s vision to move towards a more high-tech, knowledge-based economy.
Leading newspapers like ‘The Times’ have given research and the need to fund it the same editorial space and importance as it gives to other issues on the country’s agenda. This is a wake-up call for investors to understand that part of their success lies in acknowledging the strategic validity of research. These media outreach activities are crucial as they are unearthing what was once considered as the realm of mysterious academics and researchers which only their circle knew about and bringing this information to the forth to broaden the public’s understanding of research and innovation.
The year 2013 was crucial in this direction. We received extensive print and online coverage, our social media is used as part of its education outreach to get its message to a growing number of followers engaged in this new form of media. As part of its education and outreach activities, RIDT co-ordinates a feature in a weekly radio programme to provide informative highlights of research being conducted at the University. This is further supplemented by THINK, the University’s research magazine that highlights the development undertaken by researchers and academics of the University of Malta together with their students.
Outreach Activites
On a regular basis, RIDT conducts outreach initiatives to broaden the public understanding of research and its relevance to everyday life.
In October, coinciding with the beginning of the academic year, RIDT participated in the annual Freshers’ Week and joined the rest of the University in welcoming students into their new world. The Trust was present through an interactive stand on the main KSU stage, and all throughout the week thousands of students passed through the spot and were encouraged to learn more about the RIDT’s work, while also receiving some giveaways that were produced for this week.
As part of the Freshers’ Week campaign, RIDT launched its presence on social media, and the brand new Facebook page had a very positive impact with the public, especially the 18-35 category. To further solidify the launch of the Trust’s social media presence, an interactive research quiz was developed, to put more students in touch with University research. Over 100 students participated in this quiz and the winner was awarded a brand new iPad Mini, courtesy of GO.
Highlights of the Year When science is spelt fun Today’s science students are tomorrow’s researchers. One skill that will help them achieve better results is science communication. For the first time, in 2013 Malta joined FameLab, in the search for the next top science communicator. FameLab was set up in 2005 by Cheltenham Festivals in partnership with NESTA (an innovation charity in the UK) to find and nurture scientists and engineers with a flair for communicating with public audiences. Since 2007, thanks to a partnership with British Council, FameLab has gone global, with competitions now held in 20 countries across the globe.
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T he U niversity of M alta ~ R esearch , I nnovation & D evelopment T rust A nnual R eport 2013
The RIDT Facebook page continued to grow further along the months, and aims to keep an important segment of our audience updated and engaged with the Trust’s work.
RIDT has also collaborated and worked closely with the University Students’ Council (KSU) and various other student organisations, to continue reaching out to wider audiences.
During November, RIDT also participated in Discover University, an open-week aimed to attract children, youths and families to the University grounds. For this event, RIDT collaborated with the University Library and set up an exhibition on the first floor. The exhibition, showcased 12 important research projects that are currently being undertaken within various Faculties around the University.
The Trust aims to continue strengthening these relationships in a bid to successfully engage the University community, and ultimately aid in creating long-lasting bonds between the students and the institution to foster active alumni who will continue sustaining and investing in our University for years to come.
FameLab aims to discover and launch enthusiastic, promising scientists and engineers who can inspire people to see the scientific world from a new, fresh and friendly perspective.
Local scientist Owen Falzon was the national winner of the FameLab competition held at the Manoel Theatre in May 2013, and represented Malta at the International Final at the Cheltenham Science Festival in the UK.
The first FameLab Malta competition was organised in partnership with the British Council, the University of Malta, the RIDT and with the support of Actavis, Microsoft Innovation Centre, Vodafone, Manoel Theatre, Malta Chamber of Scientists and St James Cavalier Centre for Creativity.
Owen is currently working at the Centre for Biomedical Cybernetics at the University of Malta where he lectures and carries out research on the analysis and processing of biomedical signals and images. He has recently completed his Ph.D. studies, where he explored and developed novel ways for analysing brain signals in order to enhance the performance of brain-computer interfaces.
Highlights of the Year
Batera Duo - sax and piano • Batera Duo celebrated a decade in the history of the saxophone repertoire while drawing attention to research projects by raising funds for the University of Malta’s Research, Innovation and Development Trust. The saxophone is a relatively modern instrument, having been invented by the Belgian instrument maker Adophe Sax in 1846. Needing some time to evolve and immerse itself in the musical society, the first valid pieces for the saxophone were composed in the 1930s. Batera Duo highlighted four of the most important pieces written in that decade, which are essentially core works of the saxophone repertoire. The programme included works by Alexander Glazunov, Jacques Ibert, Eugéne Bozza and Paul Creston. Proceeds went towards the RIDT. Batera Duo brings together Gozitan saxophonist Philip Attard and Maltese pianist Christine Zerafa. Since their debut as a duo in April 2012, they have been invited to perform in festivals and concert series, including the Emerging Artists Series of the Malta Arts Festival.
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Individually, Philip and Christine have been regular performers in Malta and overseas. They have performed as soloists and chamber musicians in Spain, France, Austria, Italy, England and Poland. Both Philip and Christine have been recipients of various awards, including the national Young Musician’s Contest (Malta), the 11th Bice Mizzi Competition (Malta) and the RNCM Clifton Helliwel Memorial Award (UK). As a duo, Batera Duo participated in master classes with various international chamber musicians, including Tiziano Mealli, Fabrizio Mancuso, Antonino Mollica, Federico Mondelci, Godfrey Mifsud and Roberto Frati. Evenings on Campus • Every summer, the University of Malta organises a series of artistic events on Campus. In 2013, a number of these events had their entrance proceeds going towards the RIDT. The nights included live music, recitals, dances and drama, with a few of the events also being held outside University premises to promote the University within local communities.
T he U niversity of M alta ~ R esearch , I nnovation & D evelopment T rust A nnual R eport 2013
Christmas on Campus • 2013’s Christmas on Campus, a public fundraising event, was held in aid of three beneficiaries: L-Istrina, Id-Dar tal-Providenza and the University’s Research, Innovation and Development Trust, to benefit cancer research at the University.
“One of our priorities is the recognition that research is another good cause that deserves our support. As a country, we are renowned for our generous spirit when we come across a good cause. Now we want to ensure that research is on the ‘good causes’ list because it is beneficial to the community,” said RIDT’s CEO Wilfred Kenely.
Christmas on Campus 2013 featured a series of daily events throughout December. Among the numerous activities, there were food stalls, sale of Christmas goods and bakes from the Chaplaincy foyer, €1 Smart Card donation, competitions, a movie marathon night, mini concerts, and a trekking event at Golden Bay. Other highlights included ‘Pumpiera’ whereby participants were allowed to wear full gear and ride the fire engine for a nominal donation, and a Car Free Day when all cars entered campus against a €1 donation.
Fund-raising dinner RIDT, in collaboration with the ALIVE cyclists and Action for Breast Cancer Foundation, thought that the proper send-off to the ALIVE cyclists would be a fundraising dinner at Xara Lodge, to encourage the brave athletes in their endeavour and continue to round up the donations raised.
A third of the fundraising proceeds went towards the Research Trust of the University of Malta, in favour of cancer research projects at the University. This was another opportunity for the community to actively participate in the future of our University by supporting its research.
The successful dinner, attended by over 240 guests, was compèred by TV personality Clare Agius. Entertainment was provided by Alegria Dance Company. A number of VIPs attended the event, including the Minister of Education, Leader of the Opposition, MPs, MEPs, researchers, academics and members and supporters of the organising bodies. Apart from great fun, there was something for everyone, including a raffle with some amazing prizes, like holidays and weekend breaks. A true toast to a good cause.
Highlights of the Year When science meets art in the city For the second year running, RIDT was actively involved in Science in the City, an annual entry in the capital’s calendar of events which is synonymous with the celebration of research and innovation in science and technology. During this festival of ideas, researchers and artists come together to present renderings of what the combination of the two worlds brings about. Science in the City is an entertaining festival where science is manifested through all art forms – music, dance, theatre, art exhibitions, carnival parades and larger than life street art installations, all inspired by the knowledge scientists work so hard to attain. The event gives exposure to scientists and their research and with the help of some of Malta’s leading and emerging artists makes it interesting and fun, with over 30 activities running across Valletta. Science in the City is a European Researchers’ Night project, coordinated in Malta by the University of Malta and involving over 30 partners and contributors. The project is part of a pan-European event to promote research. Other successful projects with the same scope are held in different countries in over 300 European cities on the same date. Because of its aim – to bolster research at University – RIDT takes an active role in this event. Last year, this national event attracted some 15,000 people to Valletta. It also generated a lot of interest in the social media with almost 4,000 Likes and over 100,000 unique visits on Facebook in September only, while during the same month, the festival’s website received circa 5,000 hits. The organisers’ evaluation report showed that some 92% of visitors were enthusiastic about the festival and would like to see it organised on an annual basis.
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The aim of Science in the City is to offer the public the opportunity to engage in an interactive, artistic, scientific and cultural event with the aim of highlighting the importance of creativity in today’s society; promote the work of Maltese researchers and create innovative collaborations between the scientific and artistic professions that will open up new opportunities for both disciplines; highlight the work of both artists and scientists, focusing on how their creativity and innovation can continue to improve our lives; and encourage career uptake of all scientific disciplines by overcoming public misconceptions. Apart from the University of Malta, Science in the City brings together the RIDT, the Malta Chamber of Scientists, the Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology, the Valletta Local Council, Heritage Malta, MCST, St James Cavalier and the Malta-EU Steering and Action Committee. It gets its financial support from the European Union, from the Malta Arts Fund and from a number of private companies. To make it happen, there is pool of academics, researchers and artists who put their ideas together to present to the public an innovative night where science comes closer to people’s lives and reality. Science in the City is characterised by street art installations, graffiti art, music concerts, art exhibitions, children’s shows, live experiments, talks, technology areas and much more. During Science in the City of 2013, visitors could learn about insects surrounded by a 10-foot tall butterfly, while inside a house they could make a cup of coffee using pedal power, or see the latest technology in making things work around a house without lifting a finger.
T he U niversity of M alta ~ R esearch , I nnovation & D evelopment T rust A nnual R eport 2013
A central feature of Science in the City, coordinated by the RIDT was ‘Science in the House’, where scientists and researchers met Members of Parliament to strengthen cooperation and networking with policy-makers. Unmistakably, Parliament is the best place to showcase development in research at University and to raise the profile of research up on the national agenda in the country’s highest institution, convincing politicians that they need to support research and innovation through policies and constructive debate. ‘Science in the House’ consisted of a 12-poster exhibition which was inaugurated under the auspices of the Office of the Speaker at the House of Representatives. The exhibition was co-ordinated by the University’s Dr David Magri on behalf of the consortium ‘Researchers’ Night – Science in the City’. During the inauguration, RIDT CEO Wilfred Kenely stressed on the value of research and innovation in Malta. He said that at the University there is sterling research going on, but in order for this research work to continue, the University needs continuous funding. The posters were consistent with the policy goals of the Malta Chamber of Scientists, ‘Today’s Science, Tomorrow’s jobs’, and the slogan of the Research Trust “Brighter thinking, broader future”, and focused on different research themes. Each poster explained a particular research study, how this research makes our lives better and the team of researchers behind each study. The exhibition provided a unique opportunity for Members of Parliament and the public to meet and learn how the research is contributing to a better quality of life.
Management Accounts December 2013 Income and Expenditure Notes 2013 2012 € € Income 1 Donations 5,153 4,141 Government – – Investment Interest 4,250 3,176 Bank Interest – 810 9,403 8,127 Expenditure Salaries Marketing Communications Hospitality Stationery Transport Other Conference Depreciation
57,419 50,856 45,469 70,509 859 987 513 264 628 107 – 308 348 528 3,275 – 451 – 108,962 123,559
Net Income/(Deficit)
(99,559)
(115,432)
Balance Sheet
As at As at Notes 31/12/2013 31/12/2012 Assets Non-current assets Investments 2 Fixed assets 3 Donated equipment (in use by beneficiaries) 4
103,750 103,750 4,058 4,509 70,000 70,000 177,808 178,259
Current assets Accrued income 14,500 – Bank balance 892,281 737,828 906,781 737,828 Total assets
1,084,589
916,087
Reserves and liabilities Specific endowments 238,406 97,000 Reserves 573,895 673,265 812,301 770,265 Current liabilities Accruals 28,784 4,991 Creditors – – Owed to University 243,693 140,831 272,477 145,822 Total reserves and liabilities
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1,084,778
916,087
T he U niversity of M alta ~ R esearch , I nnovation & D evelopment T rust A nnual R eport 2013
Notes to the Management Accounts 1. Donations Donations received are categorised as follows: 2013 2012 € € Personal – general
5,153
4,141
Institutional – specific 169,582 27,000 Personal – specific – – Equipment in kind – 70,000 169,582 97,000 As at year end the RIDT had pledges in terms of equipment and consultancy services for the building of a Mobile Dental Truck estimated at €75,131. 2. Investments As at As at 31/12/2013 31/12/2012 € € Government Bonds 4.25% 2017
103,750
103,750
Market value as at 31 December 2013 was of €109,440 (2012: €107,710) 3. Fixed assets Furniture and fittings € 2012 Additions 4,509 As at 31 December 2012 4,509 2013 Depreciation 451 As at 31 December 2013 4,058 4. Donated equipment (in use by beneficiaries) Donations by Attard & Co Group
70,000
5. Disbursement of Specific Donations to Beneficiaries UOM Racing Team 3,000 Faculty of Laws 1,486 IMLI Scholarship 7,596 Department of Chemistry 1,553 Department of Banking and Finance 14,541 28,176
Professor Juanito Camilleri Chairman – Board of Trustees
Wilfred Kenely Chief Executive Officer
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RIDT Donors 2013 Organisations:
Individuals:
River Dream Ltd Bit 8 Ltd ADPRO Instruments Ltd BIG 555 Ltd Seifert mtd Systems Malta Ltd FIMBank p.l.c. Malta Freeport Terminals Ltd Maltafilm Ltd Central Bank of Malta Action for Breast Cancer Foundation ALIVE Charity Foundation The Alfred Mizzi Foundation Rahuma International Ltd Koperattiva Kulturali Università Kunsill Studenti Universitarji
Mr José L. Ribera Ms Christine Zerafa Mr Philip Attard Prof. David Attard Prof. Paul Sant Cassia
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Keep on going and the chances are you will stumble on something, perhaps when you are least expecting it. I have never heard of anyone stumbling on something sitting down. Charles F. Kettering Keep on going and the chances are you will stumble on something, perhaps when you are least expecting it. I have never heard of anyone stumbling on something sitting down.Charles F. Kettering – Engineer and Inventor
University of Malta Valletta Campus St Paul’s Street, Valletta, Malta. Tel: 2340 8201
info@ridt.org.mt
ridt.eu University of Malta Università ta’ Malta
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