Lifelong Learners Academy to Launch in Sakarya

The Sakarya University Lifelong Learners Academy aims to improve the quality of life of individuals aged 60 and over, strengthen their social participation, and support their active involvement in lifelong learning processes.

Lifelong Learners Academy for Individuals Aged 60 and Over

The program will be carried out under the coordination of Sakarya University’s Social Contribution and Sustainability Coordination Office, in cooperation with Sakarya University, the Sakarya Governorship, Sakarya Metropolitan Municipality, the Sakarya Provincial Directorate of Family and Social Services, the Sakarya Provincial Directorate of Youth and Sports, and the Sakarya Provincial Health Directorate.

In Türkiye, one out of every four households includes at least one elderly individual. Approximately 1.8 million elderly people live alone, 73.5% of whom are women. Additionally, 22.8% of the elderly population is at risk of poverty or social exclusion. The internet usage rate among individuals aged 65–74 remains at 53.2% as of 2025, dropping to 46.1% among women, highlighting a significant inequality in digital inclusion and access to services in older age groups. The program developed by Sakarya University aims to provide a university-based response to the increasing social, cultural, and educational needs of an aging population.

Lifelong Learners Academy for Individuals Aged 60 and Over.

An Educational Model Supporting Healthy and Active Aging

The program is designed not merely as a social activity initiative, but as a preventive and empowering educational model tailored to an aging society. It aims to enhance participants’ health literacy, improve their digital skills, support social engagement, strengthen their sense of belonging, and promote intergenerational interaction. Through the program, it is intended to reduce the risks of loneliness, social exclusion, and passivity, enabling participants to lead healthier, more productive, and socially connected lives.

The academy, organized by Sakarya University, will take place between April 15 and May 15, 2026. The program will last for five weeks, with face-to-face sessions held twice a week, on Wednesdays and Fridays, at the Genç Ofis building located on the Sakarya University campus.

The program consists of two main components: a core module and a flexible module. The core module will include common courses and seminars aimed at improving quality of life, adapting to contemporary developments, and strengthening social ties. In the flexible module, participants will be able to choose courses based on their interests, such as music, dance, drama, painting, ceramics, marbling (ebru), and calligraphy. Additionally, off-campus socio-cultural activities will be included in the program.

Intergenerational Interaction

The program aims to bring together the university’s academic knowledge, students, and administrative staff with individuals aged 60 and above, thereby enhancing intergenerational interaction. Sakarya University officials plan to further develop this model into a long-term “Sakarya University Refreshment University” structure following the initial implementation.

The program will be free of charge. Participants’ personal development will be monitored throughout the program, and certificates of participation will be awarded at the end.

Prior to the program, a comprehensive coordination meeting was held with educators and participating student groups. During the meeting, the needs and expectations of individuals aged 60 and over were thoroughly evaluated, and all aspects of the program content were reviewed. Necessary adjustments were also made to ensure a more effective and efficient implementation process.