A Memorandum of Understanding signed on Thursday with Microsoft is expected to lead to further improvement in e-Government services, the government said.
Microsoft will also accelerate Malta's participation in its worldwide Microsoft for Startups programme through the Microsoft Innovation Center.
Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said that similar collaborations and partnerships will support Malta to benefit from international expertise and know-how from global leaders in the industry.
Dr Muscat remarked that Malta is already classified as the best in Europe in digital public services. “This is by no means a coincidence, we have worked tirelessly over the past few years to simplify and cut down on bureaucratic processes, making services more accessible to citizens. However, we want to go further and become ourselves global leaders in this field”, he said.
Increasing efficiency in e-government services would allow citizens to access information faster in an even more transparent and effective manner, Dr Muscat explained. Enhancing digital literacy amongst the population would serve the business sector with people capable of transforming and growing their enterprises.
"It is - without a doubt - that the way forward is digital and there are only benefits of increasing citizens literacy," added Dr Muscat.
Through this agreement Microsoft will introduce technology adoption acceleration programmes focusing on training and workshops for different audiences. It will establish local communities and the provision of networking, means, and facilities in the areas mentioned. Local businesses will be supported through resources, which will help them embrace the potential of disruptive technology, and further strengthen the ecosystem. Microsoft and the Government will collaborate in adopting new technology to drive efficiency and performance in the public sector.
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Parliamentary Secretary for Financial Services, Digital Economy and Innovation Silvio Schembri on behalf of the Government of Malta and Peggy Antonakou on behalf of Microsoft.