Newcastle University of the Third Age (U3A), a not-for-profit committed to continuous life-long learning, is celebrating its 30th birthday this year.
To mark the occasion, the volunteer community group is teaming up with City of Newcastle for a new collaboration.
The project will use Newcastle Libraries to help over 50s discover new technologies and better understand local smart city initiatives.
A showcase celebration was launched at Newcastle’s new Stewart Street digital library this week, where participants became better acquainted with the city’s latest community asset and were introduced to a range of state-of-the art technologies.
A series of guest lectures will also take place later this month, exploring an array of topics including, life on other planets, Newcastle in the 1800s, the future of agriculture, and more.
Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen said the U3A’s mantra of life-long learning aligns perfectly with City of Newcastle for this collaboration.
“Embracing a culture of lifelong learning enhances every aspect of a person’s life and is known to be beneficial in many ways,” he said.
“It is fitting that City of Newcastle Libraries has partnered with Newcastle U3A to present this program as both organisations have a common vision.”
Newcastle U3A’s Acting President, Jenny Williams, also expressed her delight with the new partnership.
“Many people have experienced isolation and loneliness in 2020 due to the COVID restrictions. This program enables participants to meet online, learn new skills and make meaningful connections, as we transition back to a more normal face-to-face learning environment,” she said.
“The showcase is a tribute to the tutors’ dedication, perseverance, and commitment to the ideals of the U3A of providing ongoing education, for learning new skills, and fostering self-reliance and independence among members of the ‘third age’.”
Locals are invited to discover what Newcastle U3A and the new digital library have to offer, visit the Newcastle Libraries website to see the full program of lectures available.
