Senior Universities, a project to the whole community

Community

Never too late: Senior Universities improve the quality of life of senior citizens

In 2014 the Minister of Labour, Solidarity and Social Security created the legal and financial bases for the establishment of Senior Universities (US) in Portugal. The aim was to improve the quality of life of a growing elderly population. Today there are more than 300 Senior Universities in Portugal with 45,000 students. This work is supported by 5,500 volunteer teachers. The US are supported by public entities or non-profit associations that offer cultural, scientific, social, educational, artistic and sporting activities. The National Network (RUTIS) coordinates all activities by organising various national and international initiatives such as festivals, training sessions, trips, congresses and meetings, as well as giving technical support to the US. The work was continued by the current government, which, at the end of 2016, gave official and legal recognition to US and RUTIS through a resolution of the Council of Ministers, making Portugal the first country in the world to have a regulation for Senior Universities.