Moldovan State University launches third edition of University of Third Age

A total of 90 elderly people, including refugees from Ukraine, have been admitted to the third edition of the University of the Third Age (U3A), officially launched at the Moldova State University (USM) today. The programme represents an innovative model of non-formal education that promotes lifelong learning and contributes to the personal and social development of seniors.

This year, U3A operates with four groups—three taught in Romanian and one in Russian. The courses, adapted to the needs of the elderly, include such subjects as legal education, digital skills’ development, history, English for seniors, healthy longevity, well-being and intergenerational communication. They will be taught weekly by USM teaching staff.





The launch event was attended by USM Rector Igor Sarov, Minister of Labor and Social Protection Alexei Buzu, MP Maria Pancu, representatives of United nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Moldova, Moldcell Foundation, and CASMED Public Association.

‘’I was immensely pleased to be alongside 90 senior students of the University of the Third Age. A community full of energy, curiosity and dignity. We are already at the third edition, and the programme's expansion to Balti, Cahul and Falesti shows us that learning knows no age and Moldova has a vibrant soul in each generation. Much success to all our students! You inspire us,’’ said Alexei Buzu.





The program is part of the goals of the National Programme for Active and Healthy Ageing 2023–2027 and is implemented by USM, in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection, the Ministry of Education and Research, with support from the Moldcell Foundation and CASMED Public Association and is financially backed by the UK Government.

In the first two years, the University of the Third Age had 160 graduates, confirming that age is not a barrier to knowledge and civic engagement.