A kick-off meeting, organised by Xjenza Malta on 28 July 2026, marked the start of five new research and innovation (R&I) projects.The projects awarded funding under the 5th Xjenza Malta–TÜBİTAK Joint Call for Research and Innovation (R&I) Proposals (2025) cover a range of research areas, including aviation, health, water management, and farming systems.The kick-off meeting marked the formal start of a new cohort of collaborative projects connecting Malta-based researchers with partners based in Türkiye. The projects address areas of strategic importance to both countries, including aviation, health, water management and farming systems.During the meeting, project representatives presented the objectives of their respective projects, outlined their plans for implementation, and introduced the Turkish partners they are collaborating with. Three of the projects represented at the meeting are led on the Maltese side by researchers from the University of Malta, while the other two are led by private-sectorentities , namely WES TRADE Ltd, and the Mediterranean Institute of Innovation, Communication and Technology (MIICT).Xjenza Malta also briefed participants on the monitoring process that will support the projects throughout their duration. This process will help ensure that progress, deliverables and the use of public funding are closely followed as the research moves from its initial stages towards the planned outcomes.The successful projects reflect a strong balance between public-sector academic participation and private-sector engagement, showcasing the programme’s versatility in supporting a diverse range of research, innovation and collaboration.For more information, write to prima.xjenzamalta@gov.mtSend this to a friend •