On 16 May 2025, the University of Malta participated in the Primary Science Fair, concluding a week-long national initiative organised by the Primary Science Team within the Directorate for STEM and VET Programmes. The event brought together 667 Year 5 students from across Malta and Gozo, engaging them in 47 interactive workshops under the theme “Great Inventions: Bridging Science and Society.”

As part of the fair, the University of Malta presented the NOVISHPAK project through an interactive, hands-on activity designed to introduce young learners to sustainable food packaging. Students were guided through the process of gelation using sodium alginate, a key material relevant to the development of biodegradable packaging films. Through live demonstrations and direct participation, students observed how liquid solutions transform into gel-like structures, helping them understand the science behind innovative materials.

The activity highlighted how NOVISHPAK aims to develop environmentally friendly packaging derived from natural sources such as kelp seaweed, with added functionalities including antimicrobial properties and freshness indicators . By connecting fundamental scientific principles with real-world applications, the session encouraged curiosity, critical thinking and awareness of sustainability challenges, aligning closely with the fair’s objectives and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.