Rotary Club La Valette Malta Supports ALS Research at the University of Malta

On Friday, 12 December 2025, Rotary Club La Valette Malta proudly presented a €10,000 donation to the Research, Innovation & Development Trust (RIDT) of the University of Malta. This significant contribution was made possible through the combined efforts of club members and the support of Rotary District 2110 (Sicily & Malta) District Grant Funds. The donation was formally presented to the Rector of the University of Malta, Prof. Alfred Vella, by Rotary Club La Valette President Prof. Clare Vassallo, in the presence of Treasurer David Dingli, Board Member Alex Liberto, and RIDT CEO Wilfred Kenely.

This initiative reflects one of Rotary International’s core missions: fighting disease. Rotary has long been recognised for its global campaign to eradicate Polio, a programme that has saved millions of lives and continues to inspire new health-related projects worldwide. At the local and district level, Rotary clubs are equally committed to supporting initiatives that alleviate suffering and improve the quality of life. Rotary Club La Valette, one of Malta’s most active clubs, has consistently championed projects that combine humanitarian values with tangible impact, ranging from cultural and educational initiatives to health-focused campaigns.

The funds donated will directly support the ALS Research Programme at the University of Malta, led by Prof. Ruben Cauchi. This programme focuses on comprehensive DNA studies involving Maltese patients diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. The research contributes to Project MinE, a global initiative dedicated to uncovering the genetic causes of ALS through large-scale whole-genome sequencing. By expanding Malta’s genetic datasets and integrating them into international research efforts, the programme strengthens Malta’s role in cutting-edge global ALS research while offering hope to patients and families affected by the disease.

RIDT, established by the University of Malta, plays a crucial role in bridging philanthropy and scientific advancement. It channels donations from individuals, organisations, and institutions into research projects that address pressing societal challenges. Through partnerships such as this, RIDT ensures that Malta remains at the forefront of scientific discovery and innovation, while also fostering a culture of giving that benefits the wider community.

In recent years, Prof. Cauchi and his team have achieved notable breakthroughs, advancing knowledge of the genetic mechanisms underlying ALS. Their discoveries have provided new insights into disease pathways and potential therapeutic targets, positioning the University of Malta as a recognised contributor to international ALS research. These achievements underscore the importance of sustained investment in locally driven research with global impact.

Rotary Club La Valette’s support for this project exemplifies the club’s commitment to service above self. By combining Rotary District 2110’s resources with its members’ dedication, the club continues to demonstrate how collective action can make a meaningful difference. This donation not only strengthens Malta’s scientific footprint but also reflects Rotary’s enduring mission: to unite people in the pursuit of a healthier, more compassionate world.