---
title: "The University of the Third Age welcomes 96 students with new courses for seniors"
url: https://radiomoldova.md/p/86488/the-university-of-the-third-age-welcomes-96-students-with-new-courses-for-seniors
published: 2026-10-04T08:33:00Z
language: en
author: "Evelina Curca"
section: "Social"
source: radiomoldova.md
---

# The University of the Third Age welcomes 96 students with new courses for seniors

> It is never too late to learn. Ninety-six people will return to the classroom for a year at the University of the Third Age. For some, itis a chance to learn new things; for others, a chance to meet people and stay active. Now in its fourth edition, the program offers a wider range of courses and activities, including computer classes and fitness sessions. And the students say they are ready to keep up with technology.

[Video](https://www.youtube.com/embed/9V2_AAOz0TU)

It is never too late to learn. Ninety-six people will return to the classroom for a year at the University of the Third Age. For some, itis a chance to learn new things; for others, a chance to meet people and stay active. Now in its fourth edition, the program offers a wider range of courses and activities, including computer classes and fitness sessions. And the students say they are ready to keep up with technology.

![](https://storage.radiomoldova.md/images/ee1a0c8e-7746-4400-9fbd-a87834ca4ae0.jpg)

At 77, Zinaida Ivanschi is returning to university for the fifth time. Throughout her life, she has studied in Ukraine, Russia, and the Republic of Moldova, and now she says she is ready for new challenges.

"Information travels much faster here than it did when I was a student. Back then, I had to sit in the library, read, and take notes. I think I’ll face challenges with English pronunciation and with certain social media platforms—I tend to get lost in them," says student Zinaida Ivanschi.

![](https://storage.radiomoldova.md/images/d77d839f-0920-4c1d-91a3-93b940349dd8.jpg)

However, the technology doesn't scare the other students. Many say they are already comfortable using phones and computers, and some have even started using artificial intelligence tools.

*"It won't be hard for us. If we have a phone in hand, we already know a thing or two."*

*"—I am convinced we are living in fantastic times; we just need to master them, to understand them. —Can you use artificial intelligence? —Yes, I actually use it every day, and I feel like all questions and all paths are open to us."*

*"Yes, I manage well with both high-performance phones and computers. I believe we’ll have new opportunities for learning and socializing—new experiences for a more active and, why not, a better life."*

![](https://storage.radiomoldova.md/images/ac07c3f8-b997-4fef-98b5-5b2831ed1f83.jpg)

For this edition, the organizers have also prepared some new features. Two new courses have been introduced: "Digital Seniors"—where participants will learn to use a computer—and "Fitness for Seniors." Additionally, students will have access to four thematic clubs. The activities will take place at Moldova State University.

*"We are now offering thematic clubs that allow us to tailor the educational experience to the specific needs of these participants. The classes last an hour and a half; we initially wondered if that might be too long, but it turns out this group of students is eager to interact,"* notes Otilia Dandara, Rector of Moldova State University.

![](https://storage.radiomoldova.md/images/cd2ecd2e-7b05-420b-a1d4-d74eb6a4af82.jpg)

The program is part of the Ministry of Labor's policies to support the elderly.

*"It is also part of a lifelong learning program because we want life after retirement—after the age of 63—to be an active one, as this fosters excellent physical and mental health,"* says Natalia Plugaru, Minister of Labour and Social Protection.

![](https://storage.radiomoldova.md/images/b0d571c8-4348-4ec0-9478-0e766070d00b.jpg)

![](https://storage.radiomoldova.md/images/642923db-dcea-4f68-9d3e-0624276ae821.jpg)

Interest in this program is growing year by year. While the first edition had 59 registered participants and only two courses, the University of the Third Age now has 96 students and eight courses.