The University of the Third Age at the University of West Bohemia has over two hundred new graduates

This year, participants in the educational programs graduated not only from fields like History of Medicine, Urban Studies, but also Legends of the Pilsen Region. They received their certificates from the hands of the Rector of the University of West Bohemia (UWB), Miroslav Lávička.

Something was different at this year’s graduation ceremony held in the Grand Hall of the Měšťanská Beseda in Pilsen. Young adults sat in the audience while their parents and grandparents were preparing for their graduation. U3A annually celebrates the completion of studies, this year marks the final stage of the U3A’s 33rd academic year.

On Thursday, June 26, 230 participants from Pilsen and thirteen other branches received their certificates at the Měšťanská Beseda. The ceremony was opened with a speech by U3A quarantee Jana Vaňková: "Today is a special day. It’s not just the end of a particular study program. It’s a proof of courage, curiosity, and a deep commitment to education and knowledge. Today’s graduation is dedicated to you – those who decided that it’s never too late to learn, discover, and grow."

According to UWB Rector Miroslav Lávička, the U3A is an inspiring space for active and meaningful aging and for strengthening understanding and communication between generations."Thanks to the University of the Third Age, our university truly becomes universal – a place where generations meet, where experience mix with new curiosity, and where knowledge doesn’t age, but matures. Curiosity can be just as big at the age of seventy as it is at twenty. And that spark for life is contagious for all of us," said the rector.

The U3A programs and lessons are specially intended for seniors and individuals with third-degree disabilities. "Study with joy and without limits! We warmly invite anyone interested in learning to join our programs. Come to become a part of the University of the Third Age and expand your knowledge in an inspiring environment," said Magdalena Toušová, head of U3A.

The next academic year is already beeing prepared, and the range of courses for the upcoming year will be very various. New topics in Pilsen will include: The Life and Work of Adolf Loos, The History of Jesus of Nazareth, Castellology, Disaster Medicine in Context, Introduction to Campanology, and a practical First Aid course. One-semester courses will include musically focused Vocal Music Activities and Guitar and Ukulele, as well as the newly introduced Soprano Flute. There will also be programs focused on modern technology such as Photography with a Mobile Phone, How to walk through the Online World, and Basics of Digital Photography. Participants can also choose from various language and exercise courses.

Those interested in studying can register online from Wednesday, August 20, at 12:00 p.m. until Sunday, August 24, at 11:59 p.m. at the portal: www.au3v.zcu.cz/rezervace.

U3A programs have long been organized in twenty towns across the Pilsen, Karlovy Vary, and South Bohemian regions. In September 2025, a new branch will open in Horšovský Týn. Online form of studying is also available. A full list of U3A programs, enrollment dates, and more information can be found on the website: u3v.zcu.cz. The University of the Third Age lives by its motto: Come and study with us—you won’t regret it!