CareMalta Group and the University of Malta join forces to enhance inclusion and quality of life for persons with disabilities

CareMalta Group and the University of Malta join forces to enhance inclusion and quality of life for persons with disabilities As technology, education, social needs and approaches to care continue to evolve, ongoing research and knowledge exchange become vital in the identification of new solutions and in the process of ensuring that services and environments respond to the diverse needs and aspirations of persons with disabilities.  Against this backdrop, representatives of the CareMalta Group and the University of Malta’s Department of Disability Studies within the Faculty for Social Wellbeing convened on Thursday, 8 October 2026, to sign an agreement formalising their commitment to enhancing the inclusion, participation and quality of life of persons with disabilities through joint research, knowledge exchange and a closer working relationship. Prof. Frank Bezzina, University of Malta Rector, reflected on the value of building lasting partnerships and connecting knowledge with practice, and lived experience.  “A university’s responsibility goes beyond education and research; it has a duty to equip its students and academics with the knowledge, skills and opportunities to engage meaningfully with society and contribute to its improvement. This collaboration is a testament to that responsibility. The fact that this is not our first agreement with CareMalta Group also reflects the value we place on building lasting partnerships that connect academic knowledge with professional practice and lived experience, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive society for persons with disabilities.”  Through its specialised care arm, HILA (Home to Independence and Limitless Abilities), the CareMalta Group has, since 2016, been providing residential, respite and day services tailored to the individual needs of persons with disabilities. The Department of Disability Studies, established in 2012, has meanwhile been working closely with a range of stakeholders to advance knowledge and understanding of disability, while equipping students and future professionals with the knowledge, skills and perspectives needed to address the barriers faced by disabled people across all areas of life. The agreement will facilitate greater collaboration between the two entities, with a particular focus on promoting knowledge exchange and advancing research into emerging and increasingly important areas such as disability studies, assistive technology, accessibility, independent living, disability rights and universal design. Through collaborative initiatives, joint research activities, professional and academic exchanges, and the organisation of events, seminars and other sector-focused activities, the partnership will provide opportunities to share expertise, foster innovation and strengthen links between academic research and practice. It will also seek to create spaces for dialogue among professionals, academics, students, practitioners, service providers and, most importantly, persons with disabilities themselves. Dr Amy Camilleri Zahra, Head of the Department of Disability Studies, talked about the opportunities that arise out of this strategic partnership. “This partnership brings together academic expertise and practical experience in the provision of disability services, creating an important opportunity to learn from one another and translate knowledge into meaningful action. Our shared aim is to contribute to a more inclusive society where persons with disabilities are empowered to exercise greater choice and independence, participate fully in their communities, and realise their aspirations and full potential.” “This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to placing research, lived experience and innovation at the heart of how we understand and respond to disability. By working closely together, we have an opportunity to challenge established assumptions, strengthen the connection between knowledge and practice, and develop more responsive and person-centred approaches to care and support. At CareMalta Group, we believe that meaningful partnerships such as this can help translate knowledge into practical solutions that improve the lives of persons with disabilities and contribute to building communities that are more accessible, inclusive and empowering for all”, commented Ms Natalie Briffa Farrugia, Chairperson of the Vassallo Group (of which CareMalta Group is a subsidiary).  The MoU remains valid for the duration of two years.