University of Limerick celebrates first Age Friendly University Learning graduates

University of Limerick celebrates first Age Friendly University Learning graduates. UL Provost Professor Ann Ledwith and Age Friendly University advocate Elma Gourrege

University of Limerick (UL) has marked the first year of its Age Friendly University Learning Initiative

The atmosphere was one of pride, achievement and celebration at UL, as participants in UL’s Age Friendly University (AFU) Learning Initiative gathered for its first end-of-year Certificate of Attendance Ceremony.

Developed by UL‘s Age Friendly University Committee in collaboration with Graduate and Professional Studies, the initiative is designed for retired adults and people aged 65 years and over.

The initiative offers a unique opportunity to participate in university-level learning without the need for prior formal qualifications. All modules are integral parts of UL’s undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

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Learners study alongside undergraduate and postgraduate students on a module-by-module basis, engaging with academic content in a supportive and flexible environment while becoming part of the wider university community.

At the ceremony, certificates were presented by UL Provost, Professor Ann Ledwith, who congratulated learners on their achievements and praised their commitment to continued education.

“University of Limerick is a seat of learning for people of all ages, not just young people. It has been inspiring to see the enthusiasm, curiosity and commitment shown by our Age Friendly University learners. Lifelong learning plays an important role in supporting our wellbeing and helping us continue to grow and adapt in a rapidly changing world.”

The intergenerational setting created opportunities for learners of all ages to exchange perspectives, experiences and ideas, enriching the learning experience for everyone involved.

Among those who have helped shape the programme’s success was learner and AFU advocate Elma Gourrege. An enthusiastic participant from the outset, Elma has become a passionate ambassador for the initiative, encouraging others to embrace the opportunities that lifelong learning can provide.

Having enrolled in the Public Health Nutrition module, Elma embraced every aspect of the learning experience, from assignments and presentations to classroom discussions and independent research.

“Being part of the Age Friendly University programme has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my retirement. I have learned new skills, made lasting friendships and gained confidence in my ability to continue learning.

“Studying alongside younger students showed me that generations can learn so much from one another, and I would encourage anyone thinking about it to simply give it a go.”

Professor Joachim Fischer, Co-Chair of the Age Friendly University Committee, thanked the learners for their enthusiasm and participation, noting that their engagement has been instrumental in the programme’s success.

“The success of the programme has exceeded our expectations. The enthusiasm of our learners and the exceptional demand for modules clearly demonstrate the strong appetite for lifelong learning among older adults. We are delighted to build on this momentum as we expand the initiative in its second year and welcome even more learners to the University community.”

Professor Patricia Mannix McNamara, Interim Director of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, acknowledged the significance of the milestone for the students:

“For many of those in attendance, the ceremony marked the culmination of a remarkable educational journey. Some have returned to formal learning after decades away from the classroom. Others have embraced the opportunity to explore new subjects, challenge themselves intellectually and become part of a vibrant learning community.

“The experience extended far beyond the classroom, bringing new friendships, renewed confidence and a fresh sense of purpose through learning. Together, they represent the inaugural cohort of a learning initiative that has already exceeded expectations and is helping redefine what lifelong learning can look like.”