Results of a 2011 Eco-Gozo scientific research project, proposed by the OASI Foundation, shows that 56.2 of respondents between the ages of 10 and 30 feel that the authorities “are not sensitive” to the challenges Gozitans have when studying and working in Malta and 35.7 per cent feel Maltese people look down on Gozitans.
Dr Andrew Azzopardi, senior lecturer at the university’s Department of Youth and Community Studies, told the House Social Affairs Committee that he was particularly impressed by the young people’s engagement in their community.
Conversely, their significant participation in NGOs (35.5 per cent), their contribution through voluntary work (64.1 per cent), the interest they show in current affairs (51.6 per cent), the fact that they follow the news on the internet (74.3 per cent), and their interest in combating injustice were all indicators of a strong and solid interest they have in their community.
The results, published last January, shows that 62.2 per cent prefer to work in Gozo, albeit that 87.3 per cent feel that Gozo does not offer enough opportunities for work and 43.7 per cent feel they need more employment opportunities.
However, 55.5 per cent feel they are being prepared for the world of work at school.
Referring to values, Dr Azzopardi said 40 per cent agree with cohabitation and 35 per cent agree with separation. Regarding abortion, 1.7 per cent approve of it and 9.4 per cent approve depending on circumstances.
A staggering 86.7 per cent do not trust Members of Parliament and 70.3 per cent feel that the “economic crisis”is a pressing social issue.
On sexuality, the survey shows that 33.5 per cent of respondents aged between 16 and 30 use contraception; 75.7 per cent use a condom; 9.8 use the pill; 18.3 use the withdrawal system and 16.3 per cent use family planning.
Drug abuse stands at 7.5 per cent, alcohol consumption between 38.8 per cent (16 to 24 years old) and 32.5 per cent (25-30), gambling between 1.2 per cent (25-30) and 1.9 per cent (16-24).
In his research, Dr Azzopardi was assisted by Dr Saviour Formosa, Dr Marilyn Clark, Dr Claire Bonello and Mahira Sheikh Mifsud with the close support of the staff at OASI, including Fr Manwel Cordina.