Following the reading out of the national budget for 2016, the Gozo University Group has given its reactions to the measures that will directly affect Gozo and the Gozitan students.

GUG said that following its recent statements regarding the ever-rising rents for accommodation in Malta, it has been announced in this year’s Budget that Gozitan students will now receive an increase of 300 euros per year.

“GUG is pleased with these measures taken as this will help lighten the financial burden students face.” This being said, GUG still feels that this is not the long-term solution for the problem and sustainable measures must be taken for the future.

GUG stated that it has also long been pointing out the need for investment and niche courses in the Gozo Campus. “According to the Budget 2016, the University of Malta will now offer courses in Gozo that will enable students to obtain doctorate and post-doctorate degrees.”

GUG acknowledged the advancements in the feasibility study regarding the permanent link. “We as GUG are currently undergoing a survey amongst Gozitan students to find out exactly their opinion on the project and whether they think a fast ferry service would be their preferred option.”

GUG said that it is also pleased to learn that the project on the Gozo National pool has taken a significant step forward considering that this was one of GUG’s proposals for the Budget 2015.

The organisation also welcomes the measures taken to boost employment on the island through the employee incentive and the new efforts to increase back office work in Gozo.

“However, GUG would like once again to bring attention to the second fibre optic cable, which if implemented would undoubtedly increase employability in Gozo,” it said.

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