UPUA Universidad Permanente de la Universidad de Alicante

English

The UPUA is a scientific, cultural and social program that is developed by the University of Alicante for people over 50 years old and counts with a staff number of 3800 (2500 teaching and 1300 administrative staff). It is aimed at promoting not only Science and Culture, but also inter-generational relationships, with a view to improving seniors’ quality of life and encouraging their active participation in dynamic social and community activities. UPUA has 1300 students among its 2 university centres at which 120 different courses are conducted, complimented by a wide range of cultural activities.

Objectives:

  • Contribute to older adults’ continuous adaptation process to our fast-changing society. 
  • Develop new learning approaches using information and communication technology (ICT). 
  • Respond to such needs as: the democratization of knowledge, the reduction of social injustices, the social integration and participation, and the generation of opportunities to extend active life outside normal work settings.

The most developed areas where good practice is developed with seniors are the following:

  • Health training for active ageing
  • Inclusion and active ageing
  • Integration of adults in New Technologies and Languages (English, French and German).
  • Research done by adults and intergenerational relationships.
  • International Relations (integration of foreign students and contact with other institutions in order to promote the relations between students).

Since 2010, the Permanent University assumed the presidency of the AEPUM - Spain’s National Association of University Programs for Older Adults, which is made up by 43 Universities with a total of more than 45000 students.