Studying in old age not only helps people to acquire new knowledge, but also enables them to stay active, use modern services independently and maintain social connections. In Kryvyi Rih, the University of the Third Age has been offering this opportunity for eight years. During this time, more than 3,600 local residents have enrolled as students. Read on to find out how this initiative works and why the opportunity to learn is important at any age.

The importance of continuing to learn as we get older does not diminish. In fact, as technology and the ways in which we access services evolve rapidly, acquiring new knowledge helps us navigate everyday life more effectively, maintain independence, and stay connected with others.

In Kryvyi Rih, people aged 60 and over can study for free at the University of the Third Age. Here, they can study subjects such as the Ukrainian language, the history of the city, psychology, and digital literacy, and take part in activities such as Nordic walking and excursions, as well as attend cultural events.

Seventy-four-year-old Valentyna has already studied at the University of the Third Age twice. She says she would be delighted to come again.

‘I love learning something new all the time. Most importantly, I love learning together and making friends. Now, when I walk around my neighbourhood, I say hello to one in every five people,’ says Ms Valentyna.

Digital literacy plays a key role in the programme. During the sessions, students learn how to use smartphones and online services, how to solve everyday problems using digital tools, and how to keep in touch with their families.

For Ms Valentyna, this knowledge has already turned into practical skills. Previously, whenever she had problems with her smartphone, she would ask her granddaughter for help. Now, she can do many things on her own.

‘Before, I didn’t know much. But now I can log in, browse, and compare prices at pharmacies near my home,’ she says.

The University of the Third Age has been operating in Kryvyi Rih since 2018. Over the past eight years, more than 3,600 residents of Kryvyi Rih have studied here. The 12th academic session began in September 2026, with a further 357 students joining the programme.

Such programmes provide elderly people with an opportunity to learn the skills they need today, meet new people, socialise and become more independent. Ms Valentyna has seen a very tangible outcome from the two courses: she is now much more confident using her smartphone and has made so many new acquaintances in her neighbourhood that she says she greets almost one in five of them.

Within the framework of the project “Enhancing the accessibility of public services and communication in communities”, we highlight successful community initiatives that help make public services and spaces more accessible to people with diverse needs. The project is implemented by the NGO CESA with the support of the “Partnership Fund for a Resilient Ukraine”, which is funded by the governments of the United Kingdom, Estonia, Canada, Norway, Finland, Switzerland, and Sweden.