Highlights and Activities for Weeks 29 & 30

International Meetings

No meetings were attended during the period under review.

Events

1. WebCheck for NGOs: The MCA organised a workshop to inform intermediary organisation professionals and volunteers on how to create an online presence and use social media to increase visibility and raise funds by learning the basics of the most important applications.  The workshop consisted of a presentation of web strategies and best practice uses of social media, followed by an interactive session where the feedback of participants were sought on a series of good & bad practice examples from local and foreign cases. The workshop provided basic information on the following topics:

·         Introduction about web strategies for NGOs
·         The cost of developing a web presence – capacity and monetary
·         The Social Media landscape (including online newsletters) with the most important tips on how to use these                 channels effectively

2. eBiz awards 2013: Applications are now open for participation in the MCA’s 3rd edition of the eBusiness awards. These awards are aimed at showcasing best practices and unique and innovative solutions that have transformed business processes and operations. Whether you are a solution owner or developer, do not let your unique and innovative business initiatives go unnoticed. Applications close on Friday, 6^th September 2013. Click here for more information http://www.mca.org.mt/ebusinessawards2013/
    
3. Masterclass on the use of social media: The MCA will be hosting two back-to-back seminars on Monday, 5^th August on the use of social media in communications strategies. The first seminar, planned for the morning will target public institutions, whilst that held in the afternoon is being held for those working in the private sector. The MCA has secured the participation of two leading experts who have extensive working knowledge on the subject.  Mr. John Shewell is the founding director of Colab, which focuses on influencing behaviour through understanding what motivates people. Colab uses social media as part of a wider integrated-marketing effort to encourage behaviour change. Mr. Shewell was also the former Head of Communication at Brighton & Hove City Council (UK). Mr. Shewell is one of the UK’s leading experts in reputation management and was recently included in the UK PR week “Power Book” as one of the most influential people in the Communication Industry and last year he wrote a white paper called “Social Media in the Public Sector”. Mr. Antoine Mallia is Information and Communication Officer, Web Editor, Communication Unit, DG Employment, Social Affairs & Inclusion at the European Commission.  Mr Mallia is responsible for the Social Media Programme of the DG employment and Co-editor of the European Commission’s Social Media platforms – he is also currently responsible for web management, the production of audio visual material, in particular EU wide campaigns such as the recent European Year of Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations. Places are limited and are available on a first-come-first-served basis. Anyone interested is invited to contact either Mandy Calleja or Nicky Vella on 21 336 840.
    
4. BeSmartOnline activity at recreational homes for children: Specialised talks and activities targeting different age groups were given, with the aim of educating and thus, empowering children with the tools required to avoid falling victims to online risks, whilst enriching their online experiences.  The Foundation for Social Welfare Services, through Aġenzija Appoġġ and the Police Cyber Crime Unit, shared local and foreign case studies with the carers, offering valuable tips on how to protect children whilst they are learning and having fun online. The children were invited to present creative plays and puppet shows at the end of the event, which demonstrated their understanding of the topics that were covered throughout the day. Click here for further information on this activity http://www.mca.org.mt/notices-and-announcements/understanding-internet-risks-day-fun-children-residential-homes

Legal Update

1. Premiere Post Ltd. were issued with an updated postal services licence,  effective as from 23^rd July 2013.
    
2. Another sitting was held on the 19^th July in front of the Administrative Review Tribunal  with regard to the appeal by GO plc against MCA, whereby witnesses presented their evidence. Another sitting is scheduled for 25^th October 2013.