The OASI Foundation is generically associated with addiction, but its social involvement in fact is much wider than usually perceived. On Friday 13 January, the Foundation held a public conference at the Grand Hotel, Mġarr, Gozo, introducing the results of a research study with the subject matter on ‘Young People in Gozo – a study 2’. Dr Andrew Azzopardi, lecturer at the University of Malta within the Department of Youth and Community Studies and the researcher responsible for the study, gave a detailed accurate analysis of the results which emerged to the guests present.

The focus of the study was youths in Gozo aged between 10 and 30 years, and it has been co-financed by the Ministry for Gozo through the eco-Gozo project. This is the second study carried out by the OASI Foundation, after the opinion of Gozitan youths was sought on a wide range of issues regarding themselves and society in Gozo in 2000. The research study covers various other social aspects and current trends apart from addiction, including sexuality and relationship with parents, abuses, leisure activities, tolerance towards others, involvement in civil society, religion and spirituality, intimate relationships and other concerns.

Those who would like to obtain a copy of the study can either pick one from the OASI Centre, 5 Wied Sara Street, Victoria or call on 2156-3333.

■ Daniela Spiteri

OASI Foundation

Victoria