Educational Planning and Academic Development

Educational Planning and Academic Development Unit

 Within an ever-evolving scientific landscape, research and education are key to uphold a regulatory environment where excellence and innovation thrive. In line with strategic goals and objectives, the Malta Medicines Authority established the Educational Planning and Academic Development Unit to merge advanced training into the regulatory framework, strengthening the contribution that the Authority delivers towards research and innovative developments. Local, European and international partnerships with recognized institutions, thematic experts and stakeholders are pivotal and serve as an opportunity to sustain a strong science base, for sharing of best practices and embracing continuous improvement.

 The MMA has spearheaded innovative educational initiatives which provided a forum for national and international participants that share a vision for excellence, to exchange views, grasp scientific acumen, enhance competence and overcome challenges through collaborative reasoning.  Programmes include: Essentials of EU regulatory affairs, Introduction to EU regulatory procedures, Regulatory sciences as applicable to cannabis for medicinal and research purposes, and European medical device leadership advanced training course, organised with The Organisation for Professionals in Regulatory Affairs (TOPRA); courses targeting Practical Uncertainty Analysis with respect to calculation measurement and ISO17025 in relation to testing and calibration of laboratories, held in collaboration with the Malta Laboratories Network (MLN) and the National Accreditation Board (NAB); and the Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) Seminar for Healthcare Professionals, held in liaison with the Health Promotion and Disease and Prevention Directorate.

The positive response and outcomes, portending mutual benefits to regulators, policy makers, industry, professionals and society at large, augur well for the newly launched Academy for Patient Centred Excellence and Innovation in Regulatory Sciences, under the auspices of the Malta Medicines Authority.  This focal milestone in the recognized track-record of the MMA serves to share the impetus, vision and commitment towards excellence in advanced sciences.  Looking forward, the Academy shall design, develop and deliver programmes that meet stakeholder needs and expectations, encompassing the pertinent elements of innovation, optimization and accreditation.