Young innovators tackle car-free Malta concept at Startup Festival

More than 200 students from seven public and private schools took part in this year’s student programme at Startup Festival Malta, with a mobility-focused hackathon forming the centrepiece of the initiative.

The event, now in its fifth edition, saw 85 students participate in a challenge led by Transport Malta, supported by Malta Enterprise and Aġenzija Żgħażagħ.

Working on a scenario where private cars were banned on weekdays, students were tasked with proposing sustainable mobility solutions aligned with Malta’s Vision 2050. Ideas ranged from technology-driven transport systems to community-based connectivity models.

Aġenzija Żgħażagħ guided students through a structured creative-thinking process to help them refine ideas and collaborate effectively.

Running alongside the hackathon, the agency also delivered a session on the Right to Disconnect, encouraging students to reflect on digital balance and well-being.

Saint Ignatius College Ħandaq Secondary School won the hackathon, with San Gorg Preca College Secondary School and Knights College placing as runners-up.

Malta Enterprise said the programme forms part of its broader goal to expose young people to innovation and entrepreneurship from an early stage. Transport Malta noted that the initiative supports its strategy to build skills for a modern transport ecosystem, while Aġenzija Żgħażagħ highlighted the importance of equipping young people with human-development and problem-solving skills.

Schools interested in participating in future editions of the student programme may contact students@startinmalta.com.