Lately, Gozo has been in the news mostly because of what happened at Dwejra and its aftermath. Spoiling a natural beauty for the sake of a film was a decision that has had its repercussions, both on a political and environmental level.

As normally happens, bad news is highlighted in the media and is then repeated over and over again. Dwejra was mentioned in newspapers more in the last few weeks than it had been for several decades.

But much more is happening on the sister island, and since this is positive and healthy, it does not get too much media attention. Neither are letters written to express satisfaction or give a pat on the back.

In this issue (see page 9), The Malta Independent is publishing reports on three events and initiatives that are being taken in Gozo. The news stories are about road works in Xlendi, the launch of a scheme to embellish public places and the visit by hundreds of children to the Bethlehem in Ghajnsielem activity that is being held over the Christmas period.

The three reports deal with three different aspects of the development of Gozo. The upgrading of the road network will go a long way to improve the island’s infrastructure; the embellishment of public places will make Gozo more attractive as well as give artists the chance to be creative and; thirdly, having an event such as that in Ghajnsielem is an excellent way to showcase Gozo’s talents and also provide an extra tourist attraction at this time of the year.

Added to this, it must be remembered that earlier this month a new boys’ secondary school was opened in Victoria. The €8 million investment is providing a state-of-the-art complex with all the necessary facilities to enable the younger generations to be educated in the best possible environment.

Schools in Gozo have a great responsibility, and no stones are left unturned to offer students a comprehensive education and as wide an experience as possible. Only this week, a group of second-year sixth formers, on the initiative of their teachers, came over at The Malta Independent offices to learn more about the role of newspapers and the way they are produced.

These are only a few of the projects that are in hand in Gozo. Yes, mistakes have been committed, and it is unfortunate that Gozo is paying and will pay dearly for them, but at the same time one cannot forget what Minister Giovanna Debono and her hardworking team have achieved for the sister island.