The Malta Chamber of Scientists (MCS) convened a round-table discussion entitled “Science on Budget.”

Ahead of the upcoming Budget 2026 announcement, the session provided a space to explore how national budgets can strengthen science in Malta and how science can inform fiscal policy.

Representatives of the MCS called for a clear national strategy for research and innovation (R&I), including a long-term target approaching 3% of GDP (an EU-wide goal) and for greater recognition of STEM education and trades training within the broader skills agenda.

The discussion underscored that Malta’s relatively young research community requires stronger investment and research infrastructure to improve Malta’s ranking and performance.

Economists at the round table argued that money spent on research is an investment which yields returns across many economic sectors and to society. From improving health, to agriculture, to environmental quality, the benefits of science, research and innovation permeate many areas of national development.

Researchers present argued that there is considerable potential to improve the offer of research scholarships (at Masters and Doctoral level), as well as conditions of employment of researchers, including career progression and continuity, in order to stem the brain drain from Malta.

Academics emphasised that scientific evidence itself should inform the process of national budgeting. Science can contribute systematic analyses of both the intended and unintended consequences of policy measures.

They said that such evidence-based policy offers will help ensure that public funds are deployed effectively. Participants also proposed that behavioural science perspectives be integrated into fiscal measures – ensuring that subsidies, incentives, and taxes are grounded in a sound understanding of human behaviour.

Reflecting on the pre-Budget document, participants commended its aspirational tone but emphasised the need for strategic, multi-annual, stable funding for science and research in place of fragmented, short-term projects. “Strengthening the connection between industry and academia was also seen as another important component of the research ecosystem. Incentivising high-quality industries to conduct and/or fund research could result in practical outcomes.”

The MCS reaffirmed that “science is not an isolated set of activities but a cornerstone of a resilient, knowledge-driven economy, deserving consistent and well-structured public investment.”

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