UĦM’s Tech Chief Resigns After 20 Years
UĦM’s Changing Tides: Long-Serving Director Steps Down
In the heart of Malta’s cultural scene, a significant shift is underway. Dr. Victor Fenech, the long-serving director of the University of Malta’s (UĦM) Centre for Supercomputing Applications, has resigned after two decades at the helm. The news, which broke like a sudden summer storm over the usually tranquil Msida campus, has left the local academic and tech communities abuzz.
Two Decades at the Helm
Dr. Fenech’s resignation, effective as of the end of August, marks the end of an era. He joined UĦM in 2001, rising through the ranks to become the centre’s director in 2007. Under his leadership, the centre grew from a small unit into a powerhouse of supercomputing, data analytics, and artificial intelligence, attracting international projects and collaborations.
“Dr. Fenech’s departure is a significant loss for UĦM and Malta’s tech scene,” said Prof. Ian Cumming, UĦM’s Vice-Rector for Global Engagement and Research. “His vision and dedication have been instrumental in positioning Malta as a hub for high-performance computing in the Mediterranean.”
Navigating the New Normal
Dr. Fenech’s resignation comes at a time when UĦM and the wider academic community are grappling with rare challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the shift towards digital learning and research, presenting both opportunities and obstacles.
“The pandemic has changed everything,” Dr. Fenech told Hot Malta in an exclusive interview. “It’s been a tough year, but it’s also been an opportunity to innovate and adapt. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved, but I believe it’s time for new leadership to take the centre into its next phase of growth.”
: A New Chapter
UĦM has launched a search for Dr. Fenech’s successor, with the new director expected to take the helm in the coming months. The university is looking for a candidate with a strong research background, proven leadership skills, and a vision for the centre’s future in the rapidly evolving tech scene.
For Dr. Fenech, the future holds new challenges and opportunities. He plans to take a sabbatical before exploring new ventures in the tech sector. “Malta has a bright future in tech,” he said. “I’m looking forward to contributing to that in new ways.”
As the search for UĦM’s new tech leader continues, one thing is clear: the centre’s next chapter promises to be as dynamic and innovative as the one it leaves behind.
