Local News Archives - The Third Eye https://thirdeyemalta.com/category/current-affairs/ The Students' Voice Tue, 11 Feb 2025 20:42:30 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 https://i0.wp.com/thirdeyemalta.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/cropped-logoWhite-08-1.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Local News Archives - The Third Eye https://thirdeyemalta.com/category/current-affairs/ 32 32 140821566 Natural Edge: Sustainable use of seaweed for transparent, and innovative packaging https://thirdeyemalta.com/natural-edge-sustainable-use-of-seaweed-for-transparent-and-innovative-packaging/ Wed, 12 Feb 2025 10:30:00 +0000 https://thirdeyemalta.com/?p=13234 Natural Edge, a small team founded two years ago, has been named the runner-up for the Technological Initiative Award 2024. Their research focuses on developing [...]

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Natural Edge, a small team founded two years ago, has been named the runner-up for the Technological Initiative Award 2024.

Their research focuses on developing sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics, particularly in product packaging. The team aimed to create a biodegradable, organic, and food-safe material using seaweed. This packaging is designed to replace the plastic wrapping commonly used for fresh fruits, vegetables, and other food products, while reducing single-use plastic waste.

The seaweed-based packaging effectively protects food from spoilage, much like traditional plastic. After successful laboratory research, the team is now transitioning towards mass production to make this sustainable solution accessible and hopefully commonly used.

SUSTAInPack have uploaded an informative video where they include a demonstration of their seaweed-based packaging, showcasing the reduced amount of browning in a sliced apple when being covered with their material. This shows that the organic material is effective against oxygen, which is what makes food brown when it comes in contact with it.

Beyond replacing traditional plastic wraps like cling film, SUSTAInPack has also developed a version which can be used to replace closed plastic packaging. The team reaffirms that the material created is a great replacement to plastic, being the only difference is that it is biodegradable and sustainable, meaning that food can remain protected while minimising negative environmental impact.

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Students Perceive Unfair Treatment From Malta’s University Faculty of Law https://thirdeyemalta.com/students-perceive-unfair-treatment-from-maltas-university-faculty-of-law/ Tue, 22 Oct 2024 09:25:35 +0000 https://thirdeyemalta.com/?p=13187 Sabrina Zammit and Rebecca Darmanin, graduates of the University of Essex, are bringing attention to an issue involving the University of Malta’s Faculty of Laws, [...]

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Sabrina Zammit and Rebecca Darmanin, graduates of the University of Essex, are bringing attention to an issue involving the University of Malta’s Faculty of Laws, for what they perceive as unfair treatment.

The students, along with other graduates who began their legal studies before 2021, are experiencing struggles when trying to further their education in Malta. Despite having earned their degrees from University of Essex, they are now being told that additional requirements are necessary, contrary to what had been agreed on previously.

The Faculty of Laws is insisting on students requiring advanced A-levels in Maltese and English, as well as Intermediate certificates, for enrollment in the Master of Advocacy and Master’s in Notarial Studies. The students had previously been assured by the University’s rector, Alfred J. Vella, that they would have the possibility to sit for any needed additional study units, in order to ensure nothing is missing in their education received and to be pursue their studies seamlessly.

The students argue that now requiring the A-levels and Intermediate certificates doesn’t align with what was previously agreed upon, and doesn’t value the education they have received so far. They emphasize that considering their degrees are recognized in Malta as MQF Level 6, they should be able to be able to continue the Master’s program as initially stated.

The situation has escalated to a point where even the Maltese government is aware of the issue, nevertheless, no solutions have been put forward.

Since the Master’s program is a necessary step towards acquiring a legal warrant, the students are insisting on answers from those involved in the matter. They argue that they should not be penalized for pursuing their education abroad, and shouldn’t be going through obstacles based on outdated requirements.

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Maltese Youths Get Direct EU Experience with MEP Peter Agius’ Study Visits Programme https://thirdeyemalta.com/maltese-youths-get-direct-eu-experience-with-mep-peter-agius-study-visits-programme/ Mon, 07 Oct 2024 08:59:40 +0000 https://thirdeyemalta.com/?p=13176 MEP Peter Agius has started a Study Visits Programme which gives 50 Maltese students a unique opportunity to experience the European Parliament firsthand. This initiative [...]

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MEP Peter Agius has started a Study Visits Programme which gives 50 Maltese students a unique opportunity to experience the European Parliament firsthand. This initiative fulfills MEP Agius’ promise to increase access to EU opportunities for Maltese youth and organizations.

“I want to open the doors wide open for the Youths in Europe,” MEP Peter Agius says at the program’s launch that took place at Europe House in Valletta.

The program provides students with a chance to:

  • Shadow MEP Peter Agius: Gain valuable insights into the daily workings of the European Parliament.
  • Access Parliament Resources: Explore the research facilities and resources available within the Brussels institution.
  • Immerse in European Democracy: Experience and learn about the democratic processes at play within the European Parliament.

Who is this programme perfect for?

Students with a strong European focus in their studies or future careers can join the Study Visits Programme for a practical experience of the EU. Programs can last from one to three weeks, depending on individual needs.

Financial and logistical support

The programme offers a €700 stipend to cover basic travel and accommodation expenses. While students are responsible for booking their travel and accommodation, the programme will provide help with finding suitable options in Brussels.

Selection process

Interested students can find full details and application instructions on MEP Peter Agius’ website.
Students must submit a brief statement, explaining how the program will benefit their academic or professional goals. A selection board will then interview applicants to choose students and schedule their visits.

This program presents an exciting opportunity for youths to gain insights into the European Parliament and broaden their understanding of the EU.

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Maltese Journalist Wins German Competition https://thirdeyemalta.com/maltese-journalist-wins-german-competition/ Fri, 20 Sep 2024 14:32:23 +0000 https://thirdeyemalta.com/?p=13166 A Maltese journalist, Christoph Schwaiger, has made waves in Germany by winning the inaugural Potsdam Reporter Slam. His presentation which focused on the disinformation and hatred campaigns targeting [...]

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A Maltese journalist, Christoph Schwaiger, has made waves in Germany by winning the inaugural Potsdam Reporter Slam. His presentation which focused on the disinformation and hatred campaigns targeting the journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia caught the attention of an international audience, and led him to winning their first ever competition.

Schwaiger competed against journalists from Italy, Bulgaria, Ukraine, and other countries. He chose to highlight important moments where Caruana Galizia was targeted during her career, including when the Labour Party in Malta used her face on billboards during the general elections.

Once he won after the final round, Schwaiger shared his thoughts;

“I’m honoured to have had the opportunity to present parts of Daphne Caruana Galizia’s life that may have not been as extensively covered outside of Malta. When I listened to my own presentation it felt surreal that one woman could be the target of so much government-sanctioned hate in an EU member state. The audience was equally as shocked.”

The win serves both as a testament to Schwaiger’s talent and dedication, as well as a recognition of the importance of Caruana Galizia’s work. The co-founder of Headliner, Jochen Markett says “We’re happy that a journalist from Malta won the first edition of our Reporter Slam in Potsdam, with such a strong story about Daphne as we approach the anniversary of her murder.”

The Reporter Slam aims to increase trust in the media and bring journalists closer to their audience, and so highlighting the case of Caruana Galizia could work towards this.

Schwaiger went on to perform in front of an audience of senior journalists and media constultants from various countries. He will next take part in a competition in Berlin, Germany, hosted at the beginning of 2025. In this competition, Schwaiger will compete against journalists who have won other competitions across Germany.

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Volunteer at Science in the City 2024 https://thirdeyemalta.com/volunteer-at-science-in-the-city-2024/ Wed, 07 Aug 2024 10:01:21 +0000 https://thirdeyemalta.com/?p=13136 The Science in the City festival is back, and this year is said to be even bigger. Spanning across two days (September 27th-28th) and taking place in [...]

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The Science in the City festival is back, and this year is said to be even bigger. Spanning across two days (September 27th-28th) and taking place in Valletta, Science in the City is seeking a team of passionate volunteers to help out through various roles, depending on your interests.

No experience necessary, a positive attitude and a desire to be part of something special is all they are asking for. Roles are open to people 16+, who love science, social media, or interacting with people.

Here’s what you get:

  • Be part of a vibrant team and contribute to Malta’s National Science and Arts Festival.
  • Gain valuable experience in science communication, social media management, or event coordination.
  • Receive training workshops before the festival – will be conducted on University Campus at the beginning of September.
  • Earn a certificate for your volunteer service.
  • Enjoy free festival snacks, drinks, and a commemorative T-shirt.

There’s a flexible volunteer schedule and shifts can be choosen across the two days:

  • September 27th: 5 pm – 11 pm (split into shifts of 3 hours each)
  • September 28th: 9 am – 11 pm (split into shifts of 3 hours each)

Here’s how you can contribute:

  • Social Media: Capture the festival through photos and videos and plan engaging content for social media channels. (Must have access to a camera – phone cameras are okay, but DSLRs are preferred)
  • Support: Help with setting up and running interactive STEAM experiments.
  • Help with Welcoming: Chat with visitors and answer their questions, as well as conduct surveys to gather feedback.

Click here to apply by August 18th, 2024.

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NSTF hosts AI and ethics plenary session https://thirdeyemalta.com/nstf-hosts-ai-and-ethics-plenary-session/ Mon, 04 Mar 2024 11:21:05 +0000 https://thirdeyemalta.com/?p=13062 On the 23rd of February, The Third Eye was present at a talk centered around how the European Union can fairly utilise artificial intelligence. The [...]

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On the 23rd of February, The Third Eye was present at a talk centered around how the European Union can fairly utilise artificial intelligence. The National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF) successfully convened a thought-provoking event on Artificial Intelligence and Ethics at Malta Digital Innovation Authority.

Photograph by Isaac Camilleri



The session ran from 18:30 till 20:00 and included a welcome note by Mr Francis Stivala, opening remarks by Mr Gavril Flores, a keynote speech given by Professor Alexei Dingli, and presentations representing different countries.

Gavril Flores photographed by Isaac Camilleri


A presentation of report by the delegation representing Finland started, followed by the resolution presented by the delegator of Italy. Two speeches were then given on intervention, one by the delegation representing Italy, and another representing Germany. It was then time for the delegations to question and reply to the interventions. Intervention by the delegation representing Finland came next, followed by an intervention by the delegation representing Belgium. The delegations then had the chance to question and reply to the interventions. This part of the session was concluded by the Chairperson introducing the resolution and allowing the delegations to present their amendments. This was then met with a vote.

The event by NSTF demonstrates the growing importance of examining the ethical implications of AI and its use while maintaining social unity.

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The Future of Restorative Justice: Detention Houses – Youth seminar takes center stage https://thirdeyemalta.com/the-future-of-restorative-justice-detention-houses-youth-seminar-takes-center-stage/ Wed, 21 Feb 2024 09:49:52 +0000 https://thirdeyemalta.com/?p=13046 In an effort to engage and inspire young minds passionate about social well-being, social policy and related fields, the RISe Foundation and Aġenzija Żgħażagħ are [...]

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In an effort to engage and inspire young minds passionate about social well-being, social policy and related fields, the RISe Foundation and Aġenzija Żgħażagħ are organising a youth centered seminar on restorative justice in Malta and Gozo.

Endorsed by the University of Malta, the event is scheduled for Saturday, 9th March 2024, from 8:30am to 12:40pm, and will be held at Aġenzija Żgħażagħ Youth Village.

Participants will have the opportunity to delve into the world of restorative justice, alongside professionals in the field. The seminar will cover a variety of topics, ranging from restorative practices, supporting victims, and enhancing community safety. Additionally, there will be a discussion about alternative potentials of detention houses, rehabilitation, and community integration.

The goal is to encourage participants to share their thoughts, exchange ideas, and collaborate on innovative solutions that address the unique challenges faced by the Maltese community.

There will be a Youth Panel, where representatives from each workshop will share their findings and ideas to provide insight into the understanding of detention houses. The aim is to encourage the youth to voice their ideas and opinions, as well as encourage an inclusive conversation on justice and community well-being. The organisers of this seminar hold the belief that youth’s perspectives are valuable.

Organisers emphasise this being a great opportunity for positive change. Participation in this seminar can contribute to shaping the future of justice.

Register for the seminar here.

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Apply to become Malta’s Youth Delegate at the United Nations! https://thirdeyemalta.com/apply-to-become-maltas-youth-delegate-at-the-united-nations/ Fri, 16 Feb 2024 13:31:23 +0000 https://thirdeyemalta.com/?p=13030 Aġenzija Żgħażagħ is calling for Maltese citizens aged between 18 and 25 to apply to become Malta’s youth delegate at the headquarters of the United [...]

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Aġenzija Żgħażagħ is calling for Maltese citizens aged between 18 and 25 to apply to become Malta’s youth delegate at the headquarters of the United Nations in New York, organised by the Ministry for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade (MFET), in collaboration with the Permanent Mission of Malta to the United Nations. This opportunity means that the selected will get to address issues relevant to ‘future generations’, alongside others from 40 other countries.

In the call for applications, it is explained that the role will include involvement in United Nations meetings, speeches, negotiations, and more. It will also be expected to deliver talks on campus centred around discussing the experience.

The position spans 24 months, requiring attendance at various related events. Participation in meetings, both virtual and in-person, may be necessary in EU and/or UN fora in New York, Brussels, Geneva, or Vienna and a rate “covering subsistence and accommodation” will be given.

This position is great for anyone who is interested in international and youth topics and considers themselves to be a team player who is eager to collaborate. Someone curious and ready to learn through personal experience and experience of others.

How to apply

Applications are open until 25th February 2024. Anyone interested should email a curriculum vitae and motivation letter to mtyd.mfet@gov.mt. After the deadline, applicants will be shortlisted and asked for an interview. Once selected, the announcement will be made in the media.

Good luck to all those who apply!

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MMSA releases a statement on the Minister for Health’s plans for Maltese healthcare https://thirdeyemalta.com/mmsa-releases-a-statement-on-the-minister-for-healths-plans-for-maltese-healthcare/ Tue, 13 Feb 2024 11:02:31 +0000 https://thirdeyemalta.com/?p=13026 The Minister for Health, Jo Etienne Abela, has released upcoming plans regarding Maltese healthcare. Among the plans mentioned, is the goal to relocate any non-clinical [...]

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The Minister for Health, Jo Etienne Abela, has released upcoming plans regarding Maltese healthcare. Among the plans mentioned, is the goal to relocate any non-clinical service, which includes the University of Malta’s medical school, currently situated at Mater Dei Hospital to a ‘health village’. There are plans for the ‘health village’ to be developed in Gwardamangia.

This has led to the Malta Medical Students’ Association to release a statement, expressing their concerns. In this statement, it is highlighted that a new medical school was meant to be built by 2022 and that now being in 2024, the finish date of this project is still uncertain. MMSA further states that failing to develop the new medical school impacts the quality of the education given as well as the available space.

It is mentioned that the proximity to Mater Dei Hospital is beneficial for students as given that it is the “most established hospital on the island”, great teaching opportunities are available and allows students, lecturers, and healthcare workers to easily schedule necessary lectures and clinical rotations.

MMSA goes on to mention that turning healthcare into something private is also concerning, particularly in light of recent developments involving Vitals Global Healthcare and Steward Healthcare International. The association emphasizes the need for active involvement in the decision-making process to safeguard the interests of medical students and advocate for the maintenance of high-quality healthcare for patients.

MMSA has taken proactive steps by contacting the Minister, seeking a meeting to discuss these concerns and contribute to the decision-making dialogue, and is waiting for a response.

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Potential January Exam Postponement https://thirdeyemalta.com/potential-january-exam-postponement/ Mon, 15 Jan 2024 10:09:05 +0000 https://thirdeyemalta.com/?p=13014 Kunsill Studenti Universitarji (KSU) unfortunately feels like the students haven’t been listened to regarding the UĦM Directive. Any information has failed to be released besides [...]

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Kunsill Studenti Universitarji (KSU) unfortunately feels like the students haven’t been listened to regarding the UĦM Directive. Any information has failed to be released besides a meeting regarding the final financial package which is scheduled to take place tomorrow. KSU says it seems that the first week of exams will be postponed to after the final week of exams.

Even if the involving parties are able to reach an agreement in tomorrow’s meeting, the Ministry of Finance must still approve the financial package. As KSU states, there are a number of consequences that come from this situation and KSU is working hard to reach solutions by continuously informing the parties about the students’ experience getting worse. KSU reiterates that things should be resolved urgently, given that the education sector is made out to be of utmost importance to all parties involved.

KSU has already released a statement endorsed by a number of organisations and student representatives which has unfortunately been ignored. For this reason, KSU is launching a petition and asking all students to support in order to hopefully reach an agreement that safeguards students, the upcoming exams and the lecturers’ salaries.

Furthermore, if no agreement is reached, KSU will have no choice but to proceed with the ‘radical action’. KSU has announced that there will also be a student rally to raise awareness of the “students’ rights” that have been blatantly ignored. Even if they manage to come to an agreement on January 16, students partaking in practical or clinical sessions have unfortunately already experienced delays since their examination instructions haven’t been published.

The Third Eye stands with KSU and all students of University of Malta.

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