Craft courses for sustainable careers in Gozo
Although the first set of courses for sustainable careers in Gozo is not yet complete, one can already observe the promising results of such a project. Gozo is dependant on tourism and crafts may be a major means of attracting tourists. Therefore it is...
Although the first set of courses for sustainable careers in Gozo is not yet complete, one can already observe the promising results of such a project. Gozo is dependant on tourism and crafts may be a major means of attracting tourists.
Therefore it is not difficult to comprehend the aim of these courses, that is, to promote and support the development of traditional crafts. The set of courses help students gain skills in the production of quality crafts through hands-on training and use of modern tools and methods.
These courses were offered (and a second set will be offered later this year) by the Ministry for Gozo, at the Gozo Centre for Art and Crafts in Ghajnsielem, as part of an EU co-funded project whereby 75 per cent of funds were financed by the EU and 25 per cent by the Maltese government.
The first course included Fashion Design, Ceramics, Glass Works, Clay/Paper Mache, Silversmith, Restoration and Gilding and Candle/Wax Craftworks. The total duration for each course is 140 hours. Each course includes another 75 hours on Entrepreneurship, Packaging, Window Display and Design.
During last month and this month, the Gozo Centre for Art and Crafts, along with its service provider, Islands Consulting Services, proudly displayed students' work at the fifth edition of the Gozo Trade Fair and at the Exhibition Hall of the Ministry of Gozo.
Both events attracted a mix of locals and foreigners. This was a positive means of promotion, especially for those students who wish to open up their own business. The EU project regarding the extension of the Gozo Centre for Art and Crafts was also advertised during these events, along with information about the next set of courses to start in September.
A publicity campaign will be launched a few weeks before the next call for applications. For more information about courses one can visit www.gozoarts.com/esf or call 2155-1493.
Applications can either be downloaded from this Website or collected from all local council offices in Gozo.