THE Montego Bay Community College is putting measures in place in their bid to be the island’s first tertiary institution that offers classes geared specifically to seniors.

The Seniors’ Learning Institute will be modelled after the Universities of the third Age, which are common in Europe and Australia. There are also more than 200 Institutes for Learning in Retirement (IRLs) all over the United States.

The local institute will be aimed at intellectually active persons 55 years old and older, and will offer them an opportunity to become a part of a continuing learning process in an informal and flexible environment. Its objective is to create an opportunity for seniors to explore new learning opportunities to support continuing personal growth, career enhancement, and new civic and social contributions. The institute will operate as a membership-based organisation, governed by an executive body.

No special academic requirements or experience is required of members; and the diverse experience and knowledge of the members will be used to enhance the learning process and shape the programme offerings.

The executive will determine, based on demand, what courses will be offered each semester. Courses will also be designed and taught by qualified individuals who have experience in various areas. But members will be encouraged to participate in shaping and designing the courses and will, in some instances, teach courses.

Courses will be held on the college campus and other venues that will be identified at a later date.

Members will have an opportunity to choose from a wide range of courses which will include academic subjects, basic computing including the use of the Internet, health and fitness, arts and crafts, horticulture, and skills training. There will also be many opportunities for intellectual stimulation and socialisation such as educational and recreational tours locally and abroad, forums, and special lectures. The membership fee will cover short courses, special lecturers, forums and some social activities, but members will be required to pay for other specified courses.

The inaugural meeting of the Seniors’ Learning Institute will be held on Thursday, June 21 at 2:30 pm at the College’s Conference Room. At this meeting, an interim executive body will be elected and individuals will be supplied with more information regarding the general operations of the institute. All qualified persons are invited to attend and participate in this interactive session, and in the election of the interim executive body.