People interested in science but it’s difficult to understand

Two-thirds of people surveyed by Esplora say they are interested in science and technology, but more than half say they find science-related information difficult to understand.

The findings are part of a new strategy the Kalkara-based government science centre has unveiled as it seeks to broaden its appeal beyond children and families. The Esplora 2030 Strategy is currently out for public consultation.

A national survey of 400 people aged 16 and over conducted by Esprimi in April and May 2026 found that 67% expressed an interest in science and technology, but 51% said they found science-related information difficult to understand. Another 20% said they were not interested in science because they found it difficult to understand.

The main motivations for seeking scientific knowledge were general curiosity or personal interest, cited by 71% of respondents, followed by a desire to learn new things and expand their knowledge, cited by 63%.

The strategy identifies the gap between interest and understanding as a challenge for science engagement, arguing for more accessible, interactive and participatory ways of communicating science.

But Esplora’s existing audience remains strongly associated with children and family visits.

62% of Maltese adults had visited Esplora, while 57% of visitors said they had mainly gone to accompany children or attend with their family. Among people who had never visited Esplora, 26% perceived it as a place for children only.

The strategy consequently sets out a deliberate expansion across all age groups. While children will remain a core audience, Esplora wants to increase engagement among teenagers, young adults, adults and older people, including through activities outside normal working hours.

There is evidence of demand for this broader approach. Some 45% of respondents had attended a science-related event during 2024 or 2025. Among those interested in science who did not actively seek out scientific information, 36% expressed interest in activities specifically aimed at adults, while 29% were interested in museum or exhibition-based activities and community activities. This was followed by practical and interactive activities (28.5%) and science festivals (27.5%).

Accessibility is another challenge, with 18% saying Esplora was too far away, while 5% cited difficulties accessing it by public transport.

The draft strategy, commissioned by Xjenza Malta and authored by Culture Venture, seeks to respond by establishing Esplora as Malta’s National STEAM Engagement Platform, in line with Malta Vision 2050.

STEAM expands the traditional science, technology, engineering and mathematics approach by incorporating the Arts, with the strategy identifying four main curatorial pillars: Health and wellbeing, innovative technology, sustainability and space.

Esplora plans to renew 20% of its permanent exhibits, equivalent to around 40 installations, and introduce five new major experiences. It also proposes expanding regional outreach through Esplora Lil Hinn and doubling the proportion of international visitors from around 5% to 10%.

The strategy also proposes a Teen Explorers Club, an Artist–STEM Residency Programme with Arts Council Malta, a Young Researchers Grant Programme, a Community STEAM Engagement Fund and a National STEAM Engagement Taskforce.

Space at Binġemma

The most significant new physical project is Esplora Spazju at Fort Binġemma, linked to the planned Malta Space Park.

It is envisaged as a complementary discovery space for teenagers and lifelong learners, with more specialised engagement in astronomy, space science and environmental science, including night-time experiences and interaction with scientists.

The strategy says Esplora Spazju would provide opportunities for “immersive engagement in astronomy, space science, environmental science and other emerging STEAM disciplines through hands-on exploration, public engagement and collaboration with the wider scientific community.”

At the existing Bighi complex, the strategy proposes a Tinkering Space, Makerspace, Culinary Experience Lab, Botanical Garden, Playscape and Adventure Park, alongside a Sail To Science route, using traditional luzzu boats to connect Valletta, the Three Cities and Bighi.

The draft strategy is open for public consultation until 28 October 2026.