Malta Digital Skills and Jobs Platform (LISP)

MaltaPi

Over the weekend, tech enthusiasts gathered at De La Salle College, Birgu, to mark the 5th anniversary of #MALTAPI, Malta’s premier community-driven tech hackathon. This edition was particularly notable with the introduction of the highly anticipated Raspberry Pi 5 single-board computer, bringing cutting-edge technology to the forefront. #MALTAPI, in its fifth consecutive year, has established itself as a central hub for individuals of all ages and skill levels to delve into coding, robotics, and digital making. The weekend promised a unique blend of creativity, innovation, and hands-on experiences with microcontrollers, single-board computers, electronics, and more. In a significant announcement, #MALTAPI revealed its exclusive presentation of the Raspberry Pi 5, allowing attendees to be among the first to explore its advanced features. Entrance to the event was free of charge, encouraging participants to showcase their creations, with a recommendation for those bringing larger items to coordinate with organisers beforehand.

On Friday, students from De La Salle attended the activity, and later in the afternoon, students from different church schools joined the event. The event was open to the public on Saturday.

The participants of all ages and backgrounds had the opportunity to engage in hands-on coding and physical computing activities. The free event aimed to ensure accessibility for all attendees. Activities were tailored to different experience levels, with coordinators providing guidance and suggesting tasks. While occasional workshops were available, the primary format was a self-learning experience. All essential equipment, covering robotics, electronics, lights, sounds, and motors, was provided at no cost, emphasising the importance of respecting the tools. The Jam embraced both beginners and experts, fostering a supportive environment for learning and collaboration. #MALTAPI successfully delivered a diverse and inclusive tech celebration, leaving participants with an indelible weekend of exploration and innovation.

The 5th-anniversary celebration witnessed the pinnacle of tech exploration, with innovation, collaboration, and the unveiling of the Raspberry Pi 5 as the focal points. As the event concluded, attendees left with a profound sense of achievement and a wealth of new knowledge, solidifying this celebration as an unforgettable weekend of tech exploration and creativity.