Meeting in Tullamore central library on life-long learning initiative for Offaly

FOR those in the Offaly area interested in life-long learning and expanding their social life, there will be a meeting in Tullamore Library on Wednesday, May 28 at 2.30pm to launch The University of The Third Age in Offaly.

Daingean-based, international author, Geraldine O’Neill is facilitating the meeting as part of Bealtaine Festival.

Donal Denham - who helped establish several Dublin groups - will give a talk and slideshow on his experience of The University of the Third Age network (also known as U3A). In Ireland there are now 30 groups meeting regularly, all over the country , varying in size from 10 or 15 members to over 600.

The U3A helps bring lifelong learning to those retired or semi-retired from full time employment. Members often form interest groups covering as wide a range of topics and activities as they desire; by the members, for the members.

The term ‘University’ often conjures up ideas of studying and attending classes, but with U3A, the prime motive is learning for its own sake, with enjoyment being the prime motive, not qualifications or awards. Learning is simply for pleasure and to keep brains active as we age.

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Geraldine – who recently completed an in-depth Harvard Course on the Art & Science of Happiness – believes that lifelong learning keeps our brains active and our hearts young. She was first introduced to U3A some twenty years ago, when a teaching colleague asked her to give a talk on Creative Writing to a Dublin group her retired father attended.

The group was inspiring as they chatted about recent walking holidays in Spain or Rome, visits to concerts and art galleries, day trips on the train to Galway. Geraldine heard of their visits to other U3A groups in Ireland, musical evenings and dances and made new friends. It was heartwarming to hear that romance even blossomed at times between single and widowed members.

Whilst still working fulltime herself, the visit to the group made an impression and Geraldine knew that when she was retired from full-time work, that it was something she would enjoy being involved with.

Joining U3A provides a welcoming community of like-minded individuals, offering friendships and regular social interaction through classes, events, and outings, promoting an active and engaged lifestyle. Many groups include physical activities like walking, dancing, or yoga, which contribute to overall physical and mental well-being. It offers intellectually stimulating opportunities through courses, lectures, and discussion groups on a wide range of topics such as history, languages, science, art, philosophy, and technology. Members can learn purely for the joy of it, without exams or formal assessments.

Members often have the opportunity to teach or facilitate sessions based on their own life experiences, professional background, or personal interests. This peer-to-peer model values everyone’s contributions and builds mutual respect.

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U3A groups are typically local, informal, and low-cost, making them accessible and easy to fit into one's lifestyle. There's no pressure or rigid schedule—members participate as much or as little as they choose. Many members find U3A gives them a renewed sense of purpose. Whether learning something new, volunteering, or leading a group, it adds meaning and structure to their lives.

Some U3A groups engage in broader community or intergenerational projects, offering ways to stay connected to society and contribute in meaningful ways.

Geraldine states that a warm welcome will be extended to all who attend the meeting - people still interested in learning, would like to make new friends, share activities and stay active and engaged in a supportive, like-minded environment.