The “University of the Third Age” is Coming to Bornova

Bornova Municipality and the Aegean Geriatrics Association have signed a cooperation protocol to establish the University of the Third Age, an initiative designed to promote active, healthy, and productive ageing for individuals aged 60 and over. The two-year educational program will emphasize lifelong learning, volunteerism, and social participation.

Bornova Municipality and the Aegean Geriatrics Association signed a cooperation protocol for the establishment and operation of the University of the Third Age, aiming to improve the quality of life of residents aged 60 and above. The signing ceremony, held at Bornova Municipality, was attended by Mayor Ömer Eşki, Aegean Geriatrics Association President Mevlüt Ülgen, municipal officials, and members of the association’s executive board.

Under the protocol, the University of the Third Age will operate within Bornova Municipality and provide a new platform for education, social participation, and volunteer engagement in line with the United Nations’ Active and Healthy Ageing goals and the lifelong learning approach.

Mayor Eşki: “We Are Addressing a Meaningful Need”

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mayor Ömer Eşki stated that the project represents an important step toward improving the quality of life of older adults.

“Today, we are taking a step to address an important need that affects all of us but is rarely discussed. Together with the Aegean Geriatrics Association, we are fulfilling our responsibility to help our citizens over the age of 60 enjoy a better quality of life. Some public services may not always be highly visible, yet they are invaluable for society. This is one of those initiatives.”

Mayor Eşki also thanked the municipal staff, academics, and members of the Aegean Geriatrics Association who contributed to the project.

Ülgen: “A Model for Türkiye”

Aegean Geriatrics Association President Mevlüt Ülgen noted that the association has been working since 2016 in line with the United Nations’ lifelong learning principles.

“We have been developing initiatives that enhance the quality of life of older adults, strengthen their resilience, and encourage their active participation in society. We believe this partnership with Bornova Municipality will make a significant contribution to the lives of residents aged 60 and over and serve as a model for municipalities across Türkiye.”

Education, Productivity, and Volunteerism Combined

Under the four-year protocol, the University of the Third Age will offer a two-year educational program divided into autumn and spring semesters.

During the first year, participants will attend theoretical and practical courses. In the second year, they will take an active role in volunteer and social responsibility projects.

Classes will be held twice a week, covering topics such as healthy ageing, life skills, culture, arts, health, personal development, and social engagement. Academic staff and expert instructors will contribute to the program on a voluntary basis.

Improving Quality of Life

The initiative aims to support healthy, successful, and active ageing while increasing older adults’ participation in community life, strengthening intergenerational communication, and creating opportunities for them to share their knowledge and experience for the benefit of society.

As part of the partnership, the Aegean Geriatrics Association will also provide scientific and academic consultancy for Bornova Municipality’s policies and services for older adults. The two institutions will collaborate on educational programs, public awareness campaigns, and national and international projects.