President calls for accessibility of scientific research

President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca has called on the scientific community to make its work accessible to all social spheres and for scientists to create synergy not only with counterparts from other research facilities, but also other social stakeholders, for the benefit of society.

Addressing the 6th Mediterranean Neuroscience Society Conference, organised by the Mediterranean Neuroscience Society, the President said that scientific advancements can only achieve the best results when scientists and researchers share their breakthroughs with one another.

“I believe that progress can only occur when the scientific community extends itself, beyond the confines of individual institutions, by transcending the borders of our nations,” she said.

“Progress only occurs when we work together, in truly collaborative ways, at national, regional, and global levels.”

Coleiro Preca added that by ensuring the benefits of their work are made accessible to all their members of society, authorities would be contributing to a culture of inclusive and participatory knowledge-building.

“Respect for the dignity of one another must be the cornerstone of a global culture of peaceful collaboration, and the ethical foundation of all scientific and social development,” she said.

“I urge you to discuss and evaluate our commitment to ensure full dignity to all, by emphasising the need for effective social strategies, which promote the dignity of all people, and in this case, particularly people living with mental and neurological conditions.”

The President added that it was vital for different stakeholders continue to come together, urging scientists to continue to strengthen their connections with civil society organisations. This, she said, would promote a holistic approach to mental and neurological health, which would lead to the reviewing of legislation and policy, for the benefit of the 450 million people currently living with mental and neurological conditions.

“I am convinced that your cooperation and collaboration can be a driving force, to move science to new pastures, for the benefit of our global society,” Coleiro Preca said.