Kochi: At a time when college dropout rate among youths is alarming, senior citizens are making a beeline for admission.
The Sacred Heart College, Thevara, started skill development courses for people of all ages in 2016 as part of the University of Third Age (U3A) programme under the 'Age-Friendly Ernakulam' project. "There was a tremendous response from senior citizens since start of the first batch. We decided to start two new courses this year in additional to the skill development courses being offered, due to immense interest shown by them," said Abin Ambily, student development officer at SH College who coordinates the programme.
While classes were so far offered for Spoken English and Information Technology, the new courses are in French and Hindi. Those above 40 can apply for the respective courses for which the classes will start by the middle of July. The classes are held twice a week from 3.30 to 5 pm.
"I love to go to the college campus and interact with students, thereby-recalling my younger days. Also I believe knowledge has no age barriers. The lessons are helping me teach my grandchildren," said 70 -year old Bhagyathy Mani, who is again enrolling after a successful stint last year when a total of 110 'students' passed out.
A group of over 60 college students has been selected as Resource Personnel.
"The courses are designed so as to help them cope with the technological advancement and their influence on day-to-day life. Also they get the opportunity to participate in cultural events, go on tours and interact with college students which give them a positive outlook in life," noted Abin Ambily.
Also from this year onwards, an employment exchange will be set up as part of the 'U3A' programme. "The elderly citizens who successfully complete the courses can register and if interested can take up jobs," said Linshad Latheef of NGO 'Magics' which is co-ordinating the programme at the district level.
The skill development courses for elderly are also being offered at St Teresa's College and Bharat Matha College.
The Mahatma Gandhi University also conducts an Organic Farming course for them.
