Fourteen older residents will start new studies as they make use of Manurewa Local Board’s Lifelong Learning Fund.
Board chair Joseph Allan says it’s great that so many people make use of the fund. “Where is it written that just because you get a bit older you stop having the capacity to learn new things and acquire new skills?”
The board’s Lifelong Learning Fund supports residents aged 55 and over to participate in learning opportunities and continue to contribute in the community.
The grants total just short of $20,000 and will enable study in areas as diverse as computers and information technology, religious studies, conversational te reo, korowai-making and pastoral counselling.
Of the 14 applications, seven were for te reo courses - four at an introductory level and three at advanced.
The board uses local organisation Urban Neighbours of Hope to promote the fund through senior networks, support individuals to complete applications, and to co-ordinate information for the assessment panel.
“The board is committed to helping shape an age-friendly city and our Lifelong Learning Fund supports active participation in the community for older people.”
