The University of the Third Age (U3A) offers a dynamic lifelong learning program specifically tailored for seniors, focusing on keeping their minds active and engaged. The primary goal is to provide academic-level information and skills to those who are no longer in the workforce, emphasizing the benefits of intergenerational learning. Through these programs, seniors can access up-to-date knowledge in fields such as history, medicine, and culture, delivered in a university-standard setting. This educational engagement helps maintain their mental agility and well-being, enriches their knowledge base, and importantly, combats social isolation.

Typically, U3A programs cater to individuals who are of retirement age and possess at least a secondary education diploma. However, war veterans who fought for the country's freedom are eligible to enroll without needing to meet the usual educational prerequisites. Many retirees are physically and mentally robust, eager to learn more about the world, and keen to pursue new personal goals despite their age.

For instance, the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague offers courses on economics, agronomy, and agricultural economics, focusing on regions like the tropics and subtropics. While these studies do not equate to a full higher education degree, they do culminate in a certificate of completion, offering general, non-professional education at a university level to older adults.

Participants in the U3A do not hold the status of traditional students but are granted access to university facilities such as libraries, computer labs, swimming pools, and gyms during their course. The curriculum typically spans four semesters, with each semester including 12 lectures supplemented by excursions and workshops. Upon completion, participants are honoured with a certificate during a graduation ceremony held in the university auditorium. Although there is a nominal tuition fee, attendees are expected to meet attendance requirements and complete regular assessments. Graduates may also pursue further educational opportunities post-completion.

Programs similar to those offered by the Czech University of Life Sciences are also available at Charles University in Prague among other institutions. In addition, the city of Chrudim collaborates with the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, providing logistical support such as registration and transport to events, with Municipal Library staff often accompanying graduates to their certification ceremonies.

https://u3v.czu.cz/cs/r-12068-o-u3v
https://www.ff.cuni.cz/studium/dalsi-vzdelavani/univerzita-tretiho-veku/
https://www.ff.cuni.cz/studium/dalsi-vzdelavani/univerzita-tretiho-veku/
https://www.knihovna-cr.cz/vzdelavani-tretiho-veku-jaro-2024
 

DIRECT SDGs:
SDG 4 Lifelong learning opportunities for all.

INDIRECT SDGs:
SDG 3 Promote well-being for all at all ages.

Justification:
SDG 4 - The lifelong learning program offers seniors the chance to stay engaged and access information and knowledge at third-level education. 

SDG 3 Ensuring mental development and well-being for seniors
 

1. What does U3A mean?
2. How long is education at U3A? 
3. What are the target groups?
    

Ludmila Kabelová, Michaela Vachunová and Roxana Vachunová
Spolek absolventů a přátel zemědělské školy v Chrudimi z.s.