A ceremony was held to introduce the "60+ Refreshment University" program launched under the auspices of Erzurum Technical University (ETU).

With the slogan "Lifelong Learning, Lifelong Freshness," the program was initiated at ETU to encourage individuals aged 60 and above in Erzurum to actively participate in society and acquire new skills. The launch event for the 60+ Refreshment University was attended by ETU Rector Prof. Dr. Bulent Cakmak, Deputy Mayor of Erzurum Metropolitan Municipality Mehmet Akarsu, Yakutiye Mayor Mahmut Ucar, Erzurum Development Foundation (ERVAK) President Erdal Guzel, academicians, and numerous guests.

Dean Prof. Dr. Elanur Yilmaz Karabulutlu: Our Elders Will Make Our University More Special with Their Life Experiences

The opening speech of the event, held at the Prof. Dr. Muammer Yaylali Conference Hall, was delivered by ETU Faculty of Health Sciences Dean and 60+  Refreshment University Project Coordinator Prof. Dr. Elanur Yilmaz Karabulutlu. Emphasizing that the hness University was founded on the belief that learning, growth, and renewal are possible at every stage of life, Prof. Dr. Karabulutlu stated: “At ETU, we started this process to help our elders in the region lead more active, quality, equipped, safe, socially connected, productive, adaptable, and healthy lives. With this project, we aim to demonstrate that active learning, sharing, and producing are possible even in later stages of life because there is no age limit for learning and development. By undertaking this initiative, ETU is fulfilling its societal responsibility to increase the number of successfully and healthily aging individuals in our region.This university, as its name suggests, is not only a symbol of gaining knowledge but also of revitalization, bringing a fresh breath to life, personal development, and rediscovering life’s energy. On February 17, 2024, we will commence education at the 60+ Refreshment University, opening the doors to more than just a new educational institution. We are also creating a warm and welcoming environment where our elders can spend their time happily, form strong social bonds, and inspire and learn from one another.We have opened our doors voluntarily within this framework of social responsibility, and the teaching staff who will deliver the courses will also serve on a voluntary basis. Additionally, this project offers significant opportunities to identify, assess, and address the challenges and opportunities associated with aging in our region. I extend my deepest gratitude to our esteemed elders who inspired us to bring this project to life. I sincerely believe that their life experiences, energy, and passion for learning will make this university truly special.”

Rector Prof. Dr. Bulent Cakmak: We Embrace Lifelong Learning as a Core Principle

Following Dean Karabulutlu, ETU Rector Prof. Dr. Bulent Cakmak emphasized that learning and development are possible at any age, stating: “Our aim is to support the active engagement of our esteemed elders in acquiring knowledge, skills, and social life, contributing to their healthy, happy, and productive lives. At the 60+ Refreshment University, we embrace lifelong learning as a fundamental principle and provide our participants with a comprehensive learning environment.With a wide range of educational offerings, from health to arts, personal development to physical activities, independent living skills to social and mental activities, we aim to enhance the quality of life of individuals and encourage their active participation in society. Our goal is not only to transfer knowledge but also to create an environment of solidarity and sharing.Our programs are based on scientific foundations and are prepared by a multidisciplinary team. We aim to show our participants that learning, producing, and sharing are possible at every stage of life. Today’s step is just the beginning. On this journey, we aspire to open a new window in our elders’ lives and help them rediscover their energy and potential.As you know, within our university, we continue to contribute to the mental and physical skills of children and young people aged 8 to 17 through the MUCITPARK Science and Idea Workshop. For university-aged students and graduates, we provide support to realize their entrepreneurial ideas through our Kristal Entrepreneurship Center. With the 60+ Refreshment University program, we will also make a positive impact on the lives of individuals aged 60 and above. While they benefit from our academic knowledge, we will also learn from their experiences. I hope this beautiful initiative will be beneficial for all and thank everyone involved in making it a reality.”

Details Shared by Program Coordinator Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gulnihal Deniz
After the opening speeches, Faculty of Health Sciences lecturer and 60+ Refreshment University Coordinator Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gulnihal Deniz shared the details of the program.

Registrations for the 60+ Refreshment University will be open from February 3 to 14, 2025. Individuals aged 60 and above who are literate can apply. The program includes courses on health, arts and crafts, physical activity, personal development, independent living skills, mental activities, and social activities. Over the course of four years, participants will attend classes two days a week, gaining opportunities to learn while teaching others.

Corporate Communication Directorate, 17.01.2025