Be the first to comment!OASI Foundation organise Young People in Gozo – Study (2)
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Details obtained from a study on Gozitan youth were at a conference organised by the OASI Foundation, a non governmental organisation helping youths with drugs and alcohol problems. Young People in Gozo – Study (2) is a detailed study which will update an existing one which was carried out 10 years ago. The study was carried out on several focus groups and a questionnaire filled in by more than 300 people between the age of 10 and 30.
This study, which was conducted by Dr Andrew Azzopardi, in order to analyse, suggest, propose and plan strategies on the basis of which future action can be taken to the benefit of these youths. Research themes were related primarily to the aspirations and challenges facing young Gozitan people, such as social integration, employment, culture, media, entertainment, social change, confronting the challenges and dependence on alcohol, smoking, drugs and other addictions
The Minister for Gozo, Giovanna Debono, in her speech, explained how the objectives of this study are in line with a key component of the eco-Gozo vision, which seeks to attain sustainable development and economic development that does not negatively impact on the island’s natural environment or the individual. “It also helps to achieve social progress, strengthen communities and result in a better quality of life,” the Minister said. “That’s why this project was approved under the NGOs scheme launched by the Ministry for Gozo. The OASI Foundation is one of 37 NGOs who will benefit from a total funding of €1.24 million. All these NGOs will accomplish 38 different projects that implement one or more measures in the eco-Gozo action plan 2010-2012.”
The conference on the study was led by Ryan Mercieca, President of the Gozitan University Group and was also addressed by Fr. Emanuel Cordina, Director General of the OASI Foundation.
After a short presentation Dr. Andrew Azzopardi explained that scientific study has involved extensive research conducted in collaboration with the Ministry for Gozo, the OASI Foundation and the Department for Youth Studies and the Community within the University of Malta.
