A new horizon for the education of the great
The university extension classrooms of the Elderly of the URV have become a pioneering model for those who seek to enrich themselves intellectually and create social bonds. With the recent inclusion of municipalities such as Montblanc, Roda de Berà and La Ràpita, the project already encompasses 24 localities, reflecting a firm commitment to the continuous education of the older ones, at a time when the population over 65 grows significantly.
A sustainable growth in participation
The project coordinator, Josep Maria Pons-Altés, expresses his satisfaction with the remarkable increase in enrollments, with a total of 1,691 students in this course. This figure represents a historical record, showing that the interest in learning has flourished again after the restrictions imposed by the pandemic. Classrooms, which work independently, have designed a program that includes about 500 different activities, ranging from conferences to workshops on a range of areas, including history, literature and technology.
Encouraging active aging
The basis of this project is to promote active aging through learning. Classrooms serve as a space where participants can explore their cultural, social and scientific passions, while establishing new connections with other individuals who share similar interests. Thus, this approach not only seeks to enrich the lives of attendees, but also to promote their social integration and improve their quality of life.
An adapted educational itinerary
Classrooms have created an educational itinerary designed specifically for the needs of this population, which is becoming more and more important in today’s society. Pons-Altés emphasizes the importance of the active participation of those enrolled in the selection of content, which enriches the program with the real concerns of the students. This initiative is aligned with the URV’s mission to promote continuous training and collaborative learning, contributing to the development of the territory.
Looking to the future
As the university extension classrooms of the elderly continue to grow, new opportunities for education and socialization are raised. Its influence on the lives of the elderly is consolidating as a benchmark in the field of education, showing that it is never too late to learn and connect with others. The future promises to be full of possibilities for those who seek an active and full life life.
