Gozo has benefited from science and sports projects, with the first national observatory being installed in Nadur, and works being carried out on the Qala ground, a statement from the Office of the Prime Minister said.

During a visit to various projects around Malta and Gozo, Prime Minister Robert Abela visited the two projects in Gozo.

A study commissioned by the University of Malta established that the cost of Gozitan land was the most suitable to host the first national optical observatory in the country, it read.

The observatory was installed by the EkoGħawdex Directorate in collaboration with the Institute of Space Science and Astronomy (ISSA) within the University of Malta.

Abela met with astrophysicist and project coordinator Professor Joseph Caruana, who explained in detail the importance of a project like the national observatory for the scientific field, research, and innovation.

He also spoke with a number of students who were present during the visit, and who shared their thoughts on the project, the statement said.

The observatory will serve as a training facility, and many students from educational institutions across the country can improve their skills in relation to the subjects they are studying, the statement read.

Abela said that a project like this responds to the educational needs of today and that through it, the educational experience for students training in science, physics, astronomy, and related subjects will be enhanced.

During another visit Abela saw the works carried out at the Qala ground, where a new synthetic turf has been installed. More works included the renovation of various facilities at the ground.

Abela spoke with the leadership of the Qala football club and several players. He said that the infrastructural improvements in the ground will improve the quality of life for those who use it and will continue to elevate the level of professionalism expected from athletes.

The infrastructure works at the Qala ground involved leveling and laying of turf that meet FIFA's high-quality standards.

During the visit, Abela was accompanied by Minister for Gozo Clint Camilleri and the Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research, and Innovation, Keith Azzopardi Tanti.