The 26^th edition of the Malta Journalism Awards was launched today with prizes to be given out in 16 categories.

Entries may be submitted by journalists, editors and heads of news or organisations, corporations and bodies on behalf of individual journalists.

In its efforts to broaden the public appreciation in different journalistic areas, the institute launched a new category in collaboration with the National Commission for Persons with Disability.

The prize will acknowledge the best ethical and positive reporting in the disability sector.

IGM chairman Karl Wright thanked the commission for its sponsorship as well as all other sponsors who renewed their loyalty to the institute and to journalism on an annual basis.

“2015 was another year during which different media houses produced various journalistic works, contributing to a very good standard,” Mr Wright said, as he encouraged participation to ensure that the event would be another occasion to reward the hard work of journalists, opinion makers, photographers and cameramen.

The 16 categories range from print journalism to sports photography.

Submissions will be received at the offices of the Institute of Maltese Journalists, 280/3 Republic Street, Valletta, on February 10. The finalists will be announced on April 4 and the winners on May 7.