200 graduate from UWB University of the Ahird age as new enrolment opens in august

Nearly 200 students of the UWB University of the Third Age received their certificates of completion on 23 June. The graduation ceremony marked the end of the program’s 34th academic year. UWB U3A offers lifelong learning opportunities for older adults in Pilsen and other towns across the region.

Psychology, fundamentals of law, astronomy, the history of medicine, astronautics, and garden design were just some of the fields completed this year by 192 graduates from Pilsen and 13 regional branches of U3A across the Pilsen and Karlovy Vary regions. During the graduation ceremony, UWB Rector Miroslav Lávička handed over certificates to the graduates in the presence of their families and friends. Jana Vaňková, the academic coordinator of the University of the Third Age, summed up the significance of the occasion: “You have shown everyone that age is not a barrier. On the contrary, it is an advantage. Your curiosity, your questions, and your life experience bring a depth to learning that cannot be found in textbooks.”

In his speech, Rector Lávička recalled the University of the Third Age's long tradition. According to him, however, the program’s significance lies not only in the number of courses, lectures, or semesters completed. “The University of the Third Age at the University of West Bohemia keeps minds active, brings together people who might never otherwise meet, and gives the university something that can easily be lost in the rush of everyday life: students who learn out of genuine interest and a love of knowledge,” the Rector said. The graduates were also addressed by the Mayor of Cheb, Jan Vrba.

A total of 3,182 participants attended U3A courses during the academic year that has just been completed. "Students who wish to finish their studies with a graduation ceremony must successfully complete four semesters in their chosen study program, along with two semesters of an elective course. However, people are also welcome to study simply for the joy of learning, without the pressure of examinations," explained Markéta Brůžková from the U3A at UWB. The program is open to people of retirement age or those receiving a third-degree disability pension.

Applications for the next academic year, which begins in September, will open on 21 August via the online registration portal. Electronic enrollment will remain open until 24 August. The new course catalog will include programs focusing on architecture, history, literature, medicine, natural sciences, languages, and physical activities. New additions include World Literature with a Czech Soul, Exploring the Cultures of the Orient, The Journey into the Secrets of Quantum Technologies, The History of Clothing, Statistics Without Prejudice, Ergonomics, Onomastics – The Secrets of Proper Names, Czech History, Turning Points, and Chemistry and Society.

In-person classes are available in 21 towns across the Pilsen, Karlovy Vary, and South Bohemian regions. The university is also currently negotiating the opening of a new branch in Kraslice. In addition, students may choose to study online, where 14 study programs will be offered. Further information about the course offer and enrollment dates is available on the University of the Third Age website.