The Malta Digital Innovation Authority (MDIA) and Active Ageing and Community Care (AACC) are strengthening their collaboration through an agreement to equip more older persons with the knowledge and skills needed to use artificial intelligence safely and responsibly.
The agreement, signed in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Health Ian Borg, Minister for the Economy, Technology and Strategic Projects Silvio Schembri, and Parliamentary Secretary responsible for Active Ageing Deo Debattista, will bring the AI4ALL course to centres for older persons and residential care homes. This initiative aims to strengthen digital inclusion and help older persons remain more connected, independent and active in their communities.
Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg explained that, while new opportunities are being explored through Artificial Intelligence in industry and sectors such as healthcare and care services, we must also recognise the benefits this technology can bring to everyday life. He emphasised that, just as training was provided in the past to help people, including older persons, become familiar with technologies such as computers and the internet, we must now take the next step to ensure that every generation can benefit from these new tools.
“Artificial Intelligence can help us even with simple everyday tasks, such as searching for information, writing a message or learning something new. Through this training, we are providing our older persons with the knowledge and confidence to use these tools safely and strengthen their independence, because we want progress to reach every generation," said the Deputy Prime Minister.
Minister Silvio Schembri explained that AI4ALL is designed to make knowledge about artificial intelligence more accessible across all communities. “Our goal is clear: we want artificial intelligence to reach everyone. Elderly persons should also have the opportunity to understand and use these technologies with confidence. Digital transformation is about using innovation to improve people's quality of life, and this agreement is a concrete step in that direction," said the Minister.
Parliamentary Secretary Deo Debattista stated, “Through this agreement, we are bringing innovation and experience together by delivering practical training in Artificial Intelligence across the 36 Active Ageing Centres. We want our elderly to have the knowledge and confidence to use these tools safely and responsibly, enabling them to remain active participants in an ever-changing society."
As part of the agreement, AACC staff will receive training through a train-the-trainer approach, enabling them to guide and support participants. The collaboration will also include initiatives to raise awareness of the responsible use of artificial intelligence and the publication of a position paper on its safe implementation.
The contribution of MDIA Chief Executive Officer Kenneth Brincat, AACC Chief Executive Officer Steve Agius, and their respective teams was also acknowledged in making this collaboration a source of tangible opportunities for older persons.
