Nearly 500 people aged over 60 will be starting their academic year on Monday, heeding the words of University of the Third Age's vice-chairman to continue participating in society.

Joseph Troisi said the phenomenon of an ageing population was being seen worldwide and no government anywhere could or should try to stop it.

"Living longer is a triumph over old age and sickness and many elderly people are living a better quality of life than past generations - old age is not a sickness nor is it a problem," he said.

Prof. Troisi, together with the Parliamentary Secretary for the Elderly, Francis Agius, was yesterday speaking at the opening of the U3E's academic year.

During the opening Margaret Micallef Borg was announced as the U3E's new coordinator, who Prof. Troisi said was chosen for her background in caring for kindergarten children - a comment greeted with loud cheers and a few jeers from those present.

Prof. Troisi said Malta should be proud that just under six per cent of those aged over 65 lived in institutional homes.

"Old age should not be seen as a burden and any social policy should focus on ensuring that older people remain treated as full citizens with the same rights and obligations," he said.

Prof. Troisi urged those present to continue contributing to society and eradicate any passive attitudes which age may bring.

He insisted that though the word "university" may sound daunting to those who may not have an educational background, the U3E was open to all and no qualifications were required.

"U3E is open to all those over 60 and it is intended to enrich their life from all aspects, be it social or educational. Participation is crucial if we want to keep this place alive," he said.

Dr Agius too stressed the importance of lifelong learning and insisted that just because a person turned 60 or retired, this need not mean that life came to an end.

"People often joke around that a person who forgot something should be sent to l-Imgieret (referring to St Vincent de Paul complex) and this word still conjures up negative images in our subconscious. We have to battle these perceptions," he said.

The U3E offers a variety of courses for those interested, from mediaeval European history, languages for beginners, theatre in Malta, healthy eating, art and the miracles of Jesus.

Anyone wishing to join can call on tel. 2124 3202 between 9 and 11 a.m.

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