The new crafts centre in Għajnsielem, which was financed by the European Union, will open shortly. It includes an extension to the Wistin Camilleri Gozo Centre for Art and Crafts and an underlying incubation centre.

It comprises 10 units and an exhibition space that will be provided for local craftsmen wishing to set up their wares in this sector.

Five new large workshops have been set up on the first floor for the creation of art works by students attending classes in pottery, glass, metal, silver and goldsmith, wood and stone carving. Hundreds of students attend the centre on a weekly basis.

Equipment has been upgraded and a new IT system installed. A large conference hall has also been constructed, while the school's administration offices have been transferred to this new block.

A new exhibition space, that is separate from the incubation centre's own exhibition space, welcomes the visitor and sets the trend of what one should expect to find in the new complex.

The project, carried out by the Gozo Ministry to the tune of €865,000 (Lm372,500), is another venture aimed to boost the cultural identity that is often very much sought after by tourists.

The crafts industry has, in fact, seen a revival in recent years in terms of interest shown by tourists visiting Gozo.

In recent years the Government has given an added stimulus to the crafts industry in Gozo through the upgrading project at Ta' Dbieġi Crafts Village and the creation of a label for 'Made in Gozo' genuine products - a patent that is certified by the Malta Crafts Council and that should serve to give an added value to handmade Gozitan artefacts that acquire such certification.

In the past two years the centre offered more courses thanks to more EU and government funds. Close to 200 students availed themselves of the services offered by the centre which serves to boost training and education in the crafts industry and helps in the creation of new businesses.