Katarina Slavich
11 October 2019: The University of Canberra has strengthened its relationship with the University of the Third Age (U3A), re-signing a Memorandum of Understanding to continue the program at the Bruce campus for at least another three years.
U3A is an international program with over 100,000 members in Australia, which promotes lifelong learning by providing educational opportunities for older people in a relaxed and informal environment. Membership is open to people 50 and over who might no longer be in full-time employment but are enjoying the third age of their lives.
Participants can register to attend lectures and tutorials at the University in audit mode, where they attend and listen to a lecture session, but are not formally enrolled in any unit or course.
“The University of Canberra is a good fit for U3A because it enables our members to enroll in courses without payment, without being assessed and without doing exams,” said President of U3A, Robert Nield.
“Members sign up to the program purely for the love of learning.”
Over the last six years, there have been approximately 200 enrolments in University of Canberra courses, with several people taking the opportunity to re-enrol.
“It’s great exposure for people who have retired, who haven’t studied courses or topics that appeal to them, or perhaps inspired to pursue a new passion” said Mr Nield.
University of Canberra Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Deep Saini said he’s very proud to re-sign the agreement and hinted that he might even be interested in taking part in the program after he retires.
“There are a lot of people in our community who want to continue to learn,” said Professor Saini.
“It is a medically proven fact that people who stay mentally and physically active live longer and healthier lives.”
The program offers collaboration between U3A members and University research students, who can call on members to take part in research projects.
U3A committee member, Julie Rymer said she has been involved in a Sport Psychology study looking at falls.
“The students can advertise their study through the U3A network, and can see if people would like to participate,” said Ms Rymer.
“I am taking part in a fantastic year-long study and I get an email every day I have to respond to.”
For more information on the U3A program at the University of Canberra or to register, click here.
