Courier readers have often asked what the U3A meetings, advertised in the What’s On column almost monthly, are exactly.
Bev Garner, who arranges the meetings locally, explained: “The University of the Third Age is an international movement, whose aims are the education and stimulation of mainly retired members of a community – those in their third ‘age’ of life.”
The U3A concept started in Toulouse, France in 1973, and is currently operational in most countries worldwide.
The South African model of peer learning acknowledges that retired people have a lifetime of experience and collectively, a vast amount of knowledge.
“There is no universally accepted model for U3A. It is used to arrange meetings, normally led by a member of the group with a strong interest or specialist knowledge. U3A therefore consists of groups of people who come together to share knowledge, skills and experience in an informal association.
Membership is open to all, irrespective of race, religion, politics or economic circumstances, and guests are always welcome.”
Activities are held at a time slot which suits retired people and each group seems to find its own way of operating.
There is a strong emphasis on participation and involvement, however no marks or certificates are awarded as at U3A, learning is for pleasure.
No qualifications are required for admission and none are given, since fellowship and the love of learning are its essential features.
At present, there are U3As in Benoni, Bloemfontein, Cape Town, Durban, East London, George-Wilderness, Grahamstown, Greyton, Helderberg, Howick, Johannesburg, Knysna, Overberg, Paarl, Plettenberg Bay, Port Alfred, Port Elizabeth, Pretoria and many other towns.
At the February meeting, U3A Dundee was formally established.
Watch the Courier’s What’s On column for more information on Dundee U3A meetings.
Related more:
Rotary give sight to the elderly
HAVE YOUR SAY:
Like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram or email us at dundee.courier@caxton.co.za. Add us on WhatsApp 071 277 1394.
