What does a university look like when learning truly lasts a lifetime? At Dublin City University, the Age-Friendly University (AFU) initiative offers a compelling answer: education is open, welcoming, and relevant at every stage of life…
Dr Sean ODoherty Songs of Oursleves Lecture
A recently developed visual framework maps the Ten Principles of an Age-Friendly University against the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, highlighting a powerful message: universities are not only places of knowledge, but engines of inclusion, wellbeing, and social progress. By connecting age-friendly practice with priorities such as quality education, reduced inequalities, good health, and strong partnerships, the framework shows how lifelong learning is becoming central to building resilient, future-focused communities.
This vision is brought to life through a rich and diverse programme of learning experiences. Participants can immerse themselves in the drama and emotion of opera, exploring not just the music but the stories and historical context that give it meaning. Literature sessions invite lively discussion and reflection, while history modules help learners connect personal memories with broader national and European narratives. One of the most cherished offerings, Songs of Ourselves, blends music, storytelling, and shared cultural heritage, demonstrating how creativity can spark joy, confidence, and a powerful sense of belonging.
Importantly, the experience extends well beyond the classroom. Social activities such as informal gatherings, campus events, and shared cultural moments create space for friendships to form and confidence to grow. These connections are not incidental; they are central to the ethos of an age-friendly university. Research increasingly shows that opportunities for participation and social engagement play a vital role in supporting wellbeing, reducing isolation, and strengthening communities.
The initiative is also outward-looking, with international collaboration continuing to expand. A recent Erasmus Adult Accreditation visit to Girona provided AFU participants with an opportunity to exchange ideas with European partners and explore innovative approaches to adult and lifelong education. Encounters like these bring fresh perspectives back to campus, enriching local programmes with global insight while also showcasing Irish leadership in inclusive education.
A group of AFU participants visiting Newbridge Silverware factory
Momentum is building toward an important milestone later this year: an international conference in October, “Generations at Work: A fairer future for learning, earning and longevity”. Will focus on how societies can better support learning, working, and thriving across longer lives. The event will bring together voices from education, enterprise, health, community organisations, and policy to explore practical pathways toward fairer opportunities across the life course. By creating space for dialogue between generations and sectors, the conference aims to turn lived experience into meaningful action.
Taken together, these developments reflect a confident and evolving model of higher education, one that recognises that ageing populations are not simply a challenge, but an opportunity. The Age-Friendly University approach demonstrates how campuses can become vibrant hubs where people continue to learn, contribute, and connect throughout their lives.
From opera and literature to music, history, and international exchange, the message is clear: education has no expiry date. By embedding lifelong learning, participation, and partnership into its core mission, Dublin City University is helping to shape a future in which universities are defined not by age boundaries, but by curiosity, creativity, and shared purpose.
Dr. Christine O’Kelly, Director, Age-Friendly Unit, Dublin City University
For more information: www.dcu.ie/agefriendly
Tel : 01 7005454
Email: afuinfo@dcu.ie
