The Gozo University Group recently met with Minister for Gozo Dr Justyne Caruana, during which issues were discussed regarding the progress of accommodation for students, transport, student subsidies and aims on how help can be given to both University and MCAST students during the new scholastic year.

According to the organisation, Dr Caruana stated that “the Gozo Ministry has several funds, for both the University and MCAST,” and declared that they “will invest in MCAST Gozo in order to increase the number of courses in Gozo.”

The organisation said that during discussions on the €900 subsidy available for students, the Minister clarified that it will be “granted to students who live together with not more than 3 students in an apartment.”

Furthermore, it was noted that students “must present and show the amount they pay.” GUG added that, “the €900 grant is given according to the amount one pays, it is not a fixed subsidy, but is means-tested and varies according to one’s situation.”

Regarding the planned student hostels in Malta, the organisation said that Minister Caruana said that it “would not be possible to complete such a project in this legislature.”

Dr Caruana pointed out however, that the Ministry has invested €750,000 in Villa Lauri in Birkirkara to accommodate Gozitan students and relatives of patients hospitalised in Malta.

23 rooms will be available for students, plus another 5 for the short stay social accommodation and with a further 10 rooms available, making 38 in total.

The Minister said that first year students will be favoured for this accommodation, however the organisation said the Dr Caruana also agreed that aspiring University students waiting for their resit exams, could be another criteria of student preference.

The organisation’s President, Renée Formosa, thanked the Minister for her continuous support and help with GUG’s initiatives.

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