Responsible Gaming Foundation issues postgrad scholarships in responsible gaming

The Responsible Gaming Foundation (RGF) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the University of Malta, agreeing to cooperate to offer postgraduate scholarships in responsible gaming.

According to the ministry for competitiveness, the memorandum of understanding includes provisions for data sharing, access to the University library for all University to RGF staff and scholarship students, and collaboration in research.

Competitiveness minister Emmanuel Mallia said that this initiative will be of great benefit to both entities in understanding and preventing social problems related to gaming abuse and irresponsible gaming.

“The Responsible Gaming Foundation requires the assistance of educational entities such as the University of Malta in researching and better understanding the field of gaming. It requires this so as to increase awareness of gaming addiction and tailor effective policies,” Mallia said.

RGF has said that one of its main objectives is to support and to promote further research into problem-gaming.

On his part, RGF chairperson Silvio Schembri said that research will enhance the treatment given to victims of a gambling addiction and benefit social work practice in general. “The Responsible Gaming Foundation, through its different campaigns, including the Outreach and Educational Campaign, is striving hard to reach gaming victims, and to provide them with the necessary support,” he said.

University rector Alfred J. Vella welcomed the collaboration with RGF, and the scholarships scheme offered, saying that areas of gaming such such as responsible gaming, gambling infrastructure, youth and gambling, gambling trajectories, and the effects on the family are under-researched areas, and students’ research will therefore be contributing to scholarship in this sphere.

It will also serve as a base for the development of policy and practice procedures in the sector, he added.