What are the main problems Gozitan students face on a daily basis?
Most Gozitan students are dependent on public transport, so this uncomfortable means of transport is a vital part of their daily life.
The most important issue is synchronising the bus and ferry schedule. Eman Borg, Mcast Art and Design, Media Studies and Production, 2nd year.
Rather than problems, we face challenges that Maltese students on the same course don’t. For instance, we have to prepare our own meals, do our own laundry and practically all the domestic chores that living on our own brings with it.
But this challenge makes us mature at a younger age, and prepares us for what we might face later in life. Jonathan Mintoff, Bachelor of Laws (Hons), 3rd year.
Gozitan students face the problem of being away from home and their family on a daily basis, of spending money on travel fares and having to travel back and forth every day. Julia Aquilina, Bachelor of European Studies, 1st year.
Is enough aid currently given to Gozitan students? Is there need for additional help?
A lot has already been done to lessen the financial burden on Gozitan youths in order for them to continue their studies. Eman Borg
The University Gozo Group recently conducted a survey among students about their monthly rent expenses. This showed that although the cost of renting property may have remained constant in recent years, it is still quite a strain on their income, besides all the other expenses involved with having a second home, such as internet subscription.
The grant could possibly be linked to the cost of living adjustments, so as to try and decrease this financial burden. Jonathan Mintoff
A recent issue has arisen regarding whether or not Gozitan students deserve a higher stipend: in my opinion they do, because besides travelling expenses, some students also have to pay for rent and living costs. Julia Aquilina
Will projects such as the proposed Gozo medical hub provide the added boost the Gozitan economy and its population needs or are more such projects needed?
Gozo needs a deeper investment in various different sectors that are developing in today’s technology era. Investment in Gozitan youths entails a better future for Gozo as a whole. Eman Borg
Gozo definitely needs more investment, but this has to be in line with a holistic vision for Gozo. The vision of Gozo as a medical hub, if executed properly, could be a niche market which could create more jobs and investment, and possibly divert Gozo’s current direction of simply becoming a retirement island. Jonathan Mintoff
Investments such as the Gozo medical hub are a great way to increase job opportunities, tourism and education; however, it shouldn’t become too big and develop into something we cannot control. Julia Aquilina
Compiled by Insite – the student media organisation.