Esplora Interactive Science Centre has marked its tenth anniversary with an official ceremony at Villa Bighi in Malta, bringing together educators, researchers and community partners to celebrate a decade of public science engagement.

The Centre, which opened in 2016, used the occasion to reflect on its first ten years and signal a more ambitious second chapter. Guests watched a short documentary tracing key milestones and outlining plans for the years ahead.

Senior figures from Esplora and its parent body Xjenza Malta addressed the ceremony. Xjenza Malta Chief Executive Silvio Scerri described Esplora as a bridge between research and society, pointing to its role in building science literacy, curiosity and a culture of innovation across Malta’s communities. Senior Director Mary Ann Cauchi spoke to the Centre’s ambition to consolidate its position as Malta’s national platform for STEAM engagement, connecting science, research and creativity with people across the Maltese islands.

The evening also carried a musical dimension. Esplora Ambassador Ivan Grech, who had performed at the Centre’s original opening a decade earlier, returned to Villa Bighi to perform alongside friends, lending the occasion a meaningful sense of continuity.

Looking ahead, Esplora outlined several priorities for its second decade: new interactive experiences, stronger accessibility and inclusion, expanded opportunities for young researchers and deeper partnerships linking science with creativity and innovation. The ceremony also recognised the contributions of past and present staff, collaborators, educators, partners and visitors who have helped shape the Centre since its founding.

For the meetings and events sector, Esplora’s continued development as a national science and innovation hub makes it an increasingly compelling venue option, particularly for events with a STEM or innovation focus. Its combination of hands-on engagement and institutional credibility gives it a distinct proposition in Malta’s events landscape.