In an effort to introduce the concept of donating funds to the university, Kunsill Studenti Universitarji (KSU) recently presented a donation of €1,000 to the Research Innovation and Development Trust (RIDT) of the University of Malta. This money will go towards the university’s research activities.

University rector Juanito Camilleri received the donation from KSU president Mario Cachia in the presence of a number of KSU members.

Prof. Camilleri said: “KSU’s benevolent gesture goes well beyond the actual sum being donated. It represents the students’ commitment towards their university.

“We thank them for their efforts and would like to encourage everyone to help because without the financial support from public entities, private companies and individuals, we cannot sustain the investment for further research projects at the University of Malta.

“Nearly all commercial organisations in Malta today benefit from the studies and training their employees had at the university. By allocating a small amount of their income to their preferred research areas, these companies will be also investing in their own future,” he explained.

Mr Cachia said: “KSU deems that the University of Malta has to further enhance its role as a centre for research and innovation. We firmly believe that the university, as the highest academic institution in Malta, should continue in its endeavour to become a centre of excellence and knowledge.

“KSU shall venture to promote the objectives of the RIDT among the students it represents and will encourage them to support the trust even by organising activities to raise funds for specific future research.”

The RIDT was established at the university to bolster investment in research and development at a national level. As the university expands its sphere of research projects, it is increasingly becoming more reliant on patronage and sponsorships from businesses and private individuals.

Further information on the RIDT can be obtained from www.ridt.org.mt.