The Gozo University Group reacts to the publication of the National Budget for the year 2017. GUG welcomes the much needed investment in a second fibre optic cable between Malta and Gozo. The 3.2 million investment which is expected to be finished in two years, is definitely an advancement for the island of Gozo as it will promote and enhance the IT and digital economy sector. Such project has been put forward various times by the GUG as it would undoubtedly increase employ ability in Gozo and reduce the content brain drain the island suffers.
The government stated its commitment to the expansion of the University of Malta buildings (educational buildings). GUG believes that these investments are crucial to the education sector in our islands, however, GUG is puzzled with the absence of even a mention for the development at the Gozo University Campus.
GUG is also pleased to learn that Gozitan students attending private education institutions in Malta will also be receiving a maintenance grant, together with the raise in stipends which will keep in accordance with the Cost of Living Adjustments.
After years discussing accessibility in Gozo, the GUG is pleased with the short term project of the fast ferry service between Mgarr Gozo and Valletta. However as such proposal lacks information, GUG hopes that such service will be affordable by the students and by those who work in Malta on a daily basis.