Driving Cancer Research Forward: Malta Hosts 2nd Inception Dialogue Of The National Cancer Mission Hub
The 2nd Inception Dialogue, facilitated by the ECHoS project and the Observatory of Health Systems and Policies (OBS), brought together leaders from government, academia, industry and civil society to ensure that Malta’s cancer mission remains inclusive and collaborative.
The event reaffirmed the Hub’s mission to incorporate a broad range of stakeholders, integrating diverse voices and perspectives to advance cancer care and research across Malta.
The Cancer Research and Innovation Foundation, the organisation leading the initiative in Malta, has been established as a transparent and accountable legal entity dedicated to fostering cross-sector collaboration. The Foundation aims to unite various sectors—government, industry and civil society—to tackle the complexities of cancer and spearhead innovative solutions.
The vision for the National Cancer Mission Hub is to coordinate and lead cancer research in Malta, align national priorities with European opportunities and drive forward breakthroughs in cancer care. At its heart, the Hub prioritises patients’ needs and aspirations, ensuring that all Maltese citizens benefit from the most innovative and effective solutions.
Honourable Parliamentary Secretary Keith Azzopardi Tanti, delivering the keynote speech at the Dialogue, emphasised the importance of the Penta Helix collaboration model, which underscores the collective contribution of multiple sectors to cancer research and care.
“Cancer affects all of society—it is a challenge that transcends industries and borders. Today, we reaffirm Malta’s commitment to a more strategic, coordinated approach to cancer research, care, and innovation. The National Cancer Mission Hub is not merely a hub; it is a symbol of Malta’s determination to combat cancer with creativity, resilience and compassion,” he stated.
“Involving a diverse range of stakeholders is a critical step in implementing and strengthening a National Cancer Mission Hub,” noted Yasmin Fonseca, ECHoS project manager. “The unique perspectives, needs and challenges contributed by citizens, the healthcare sector, researchers, industry leaders and public administrators foster the creation of a collaborative ecosystem necessary for advancing cancer research and care.”
This approach, adopted across Europe, is being tailored to meet the specific needs of Malta, ensuring that stakeholders remain at the core of the Hub’s activities.
“The National Cancer Mission Hub is making remarkable strides. We have established a board comprising members of the quadruple helix and an advisory board. Work continues on building the administrative team and strengthening global partnerships through visits to other well-established hubs,” Prof. Christian Scerri, Executive Chair of the National Cancer Research and Innovation Hub Malta, highlighted.
The National Cancer Mission Hub is not merely an organisation but represents a long-term commitment to collaboration, innovation and progress. Malta’s journey in cancer research and care is only just beginning, and the 2nd Inception Dialogue marks a pivotal moment in driving these efforts forward.