Senior Victorians in Colac will have greater access to lifelong learning programs through the latest round of grants to the University of the Third Age (U3A), Minister for Senior Victorians, Lisa Neville said.
“U3A Colac Otway Inc will benefit from an additional $2,400 in funding from the Victorian Government which will go towards supporting existing tutors with skills development and training in teaching skills for seniors.”, Ms Neville said.
In total, 60 U3As across Victoria will share in over $160,000 of grants to help them establish more than 70 new programs such as music appreciation, genealogical research and Mandarin.
The U3A is an international network that supports older people to participate in lifelong learning activities through a variety of low-cost, accessible courses. Participants do not require any prior qualifications.
“It’s well recognised that keeping both mentally and physically fit, especially after retirement, can enrich and prolong people’s lives. Through their many educational, creative and leisure activities for older people, U3As help foster positive ageing,” said Ms Neville.
“The Victorian Government believes that every Victorian should be able to participate in lifelong learning, which is why we committed $1.2 million over four years to help U3As grow,” Ms Neville said.
Through this funding U3As have developed and extended programs and increased participation, particularly among those from culturally diverse backgrounds and other under-represented groups.
Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney said that the extra funding support for U3A Colac Otway Inc was extremely welcome.
“U3A courses are an inexpensive and easy way for seniors to try new activities or extend existing hobbies. They offer everything from digital photography and opera appreciation to geology, belly dancing and local history classes. They’re such a satisfying and stimulating experience for most people – it’s no wonder they’re so popular,” Ms Tierney said.
