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University of the Third Age
On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Universities of theThird Age in Poland, the 1st Forum of Silesian Universities of theThird Age was held at the Silesian Voivodeship Office in Katowice. The event, initiated by the Marshal of the Silesian Voivodeship, Mr. Wojciech Saługa, marked the beginning of national celebrations for half a century of senior education in Poland.
WSB University took an active part in the Forum. The event was opened by a keynote lecture by Professor Zofia Szarota from the Department of Pedagogy at WSB University, titled “From Vision to Mission – 50 Years of Universities of theThird Age in Poland,” which explored the history and development of the Universities of theThird Age movement. The Forum was hosted by Agnieszka Dubiel, Director of the Center for Continuing Education at WSB University.
Among the participants were Marek Gzik, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, Marek Wójcik, Voivode of the Silesian Voivodeship, members of parliament, and representatives of Universities of theThird Age from across the region.
“The work of Universities of the Third Age in Poland cannot be overestimated. Their mission is exactly the same as that of the approximately 350 higher education institutions in our country. It is about activation, learning, and development – activities of tremendous importance, as they concern a stage of life often referred to as the autumn of life. This stage can be more beautiful, more meaningful, and of higher quality thanks to active engagement,” said Marek Gzik, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Science and Higher Education..
“Just a dozen or so years ago, the importance of senior policy was not as widely recognized. Today, both government and local authorities acknowledge and actively support this area. Your role in this process is absolutely crucial,” emphasized the Voivode.
WSB University currently operates Universities of the Third Age programs in 11 cities, including Dąbrowa Górnicza, Bochnia, Bieruń, Czeladź, Ogrodzieniec, Ożarowice, Psary, Rogoźnik, Siemonia, Tychy, and Wojkowice. The programs serve over 2,500 senior learners, offering not only academic lectures and workshops, but also trips, cultural outings, and recreational activities.
Participants are encouraged to join broader university projects and initiatives. The curriculum includes fitness classes, swimming, yoga, Nordic walking, as well as artistic workshops such as sewing and handicrafts – proving that learning can truly be for both the body and soul.