Active Ageing: Moldova Gives Seniors a New Start
Every year, thousands of people head to the doors of universities, and in the Republic of Moldova, a new category of students is taking decisive steps towards knowledge at the University of the Third Age.
This initiative is launched by the Ministry of Education and Research in collaboration with the State University of Moldova and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). The authorities thus aim to bring education into the lives of the elderly, to provide them with a conducive environment for studies, and to actively integrate them into the community.
"Learning doesn't stop when you graduate. We can acquire knowledge and information throughout our lives. Seniors learn new things here to feel much better in today's environment," says Tatiana Turchină, head of the Center for Continuing Education Resources.
Students are taught to navigate the digital world, communicate more effectively, and discover new passions.
"This is a fantastic project for our age group. We come here to socialise and enjoy ourselves," says one of the students.
"I am a doctor by profession, and I believe that doctors must continue learning throughout their lives to maintain their skills. That is why, in these courses, I learned new technologies, such as how to use a mobile phone," adds another student.
The University of the Third Age is part of the 2023-2024 National Program for Active and Healthy Aging, implemented by the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection in partnership with the UNFPA. The pilot program runs from October 2023 to April 2024, with the technical and financial support of the UNFPA, the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection, the Ministry of Education and Research, and the State University of Moldova.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
