The Wistin Camilleri Gozo Centre for Art and Crafts (GCAC) is participating in the Blended Learning Environmental Science (BLES) project, which is an EU-funded project that targets further learning about biodegradable waste. The GCAC represents Malta in a group made of partners coming from Bulgaria, Estonia, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland. Through participation in the first phase of this project, which treated 'Recyoccupation', the GCAC was able to develop new biodegradable products which are used for the manufacture of artisan products as well as packaging.

The second phase of the BLES project intends to provide an online learning course for workers in the field of waste management. 'The Eco-Recycler - Treatment of biodegradable Waste' course particularly aims at exploiting the potential resource of biodegradable waste. It is estimated that around 150 million tonnes of organic waste are generated throughout the whole European Community within a year.

The GCAC has received response from 33 students who attend secondary school classes, to participate in this course. Through online tuition and relative teaching support at the GCAC, these participants are being given the opportunity to get a certificate which will eventually also help them when they apply for related jobs. This is an added service which maximises the potential of the role of the GCAC as a promoter of eco-friendly practices. This fits in within the eco-Gozo concept, which is being considered as an ambitious but realisable target to be attained within the coming years.

The Minister for Gozo, Giovanna Debono, referred to this at the inauguration of a Christmas exhibition being held at the Conference Hall of the Wistin Camilleri Gozo Centre for Art and Crafts (GCAC) in Ghajnsielem, Gozo. Exhibits on display comprise works with a festive theme, carried out by the teachers and participants of the various art and craft courses offered at this centre. Works include lace, creative knitting, textile design, parchment and embroidery items, thread filigree, jewellery, carved wood, as well as others in pottery and stained glass. A particular attraction is a metal christmas tree carrying 45 candles, which was executed during the metalworks course. Candlelight also provides a suggestive atmosphere to the whole exhibition which will remain open for a week.

The Minister for Gozo said that the authentic Gozitan art and crafts industry forms part of a unique and long-established culture. As such, it is essential that this sector is continuously supported and given the assistance it needs to flourish in order for it not to be lost in time. It is thus that we ensure holistic sustainable development wherein we ensure progress within our society without forfeiting important natural, cultural and historical characteristics.

The Ministry for Gozo said it has invested heavily towards this regard along the years, with the latest being that of the building of a new extension to the GCAC as well as a new Crafts Incubation Centre. This project cost around €870,000 and was co-financed under the European Regional Development Fund. It's specific aim is that of providing the younger generation, as well as the more mature section of the Gozitan population, with the opportunity to practice and learn a craft in a professional way. This encourages more members of the Gozitan public to attend such courses, while it also offers appropriate support to existing talented artisans in their endeavours to create and promote genuine Gozitan artefacts.

There are presently 1024 students who regularly attend classes in 55 different courses at the Wistin Camilleri Gozo Centre for Art and Crafts. Further information about these courses as well as the BLES course may be found on the school's website www.gozoarts.com