Tuesday, September 23, 2025

The power of Lifelong Learning - Sylvia Schrire

91 Years Young: Sylvia Schrire and the Power of Lifelong Learning ๐ŸŽ“✨

Written by : Faith Marman 

On the Bush Radio Morning Cruise, we had the honor of hosting a truly remarkable guest — Ms. Sylvia Schrire, co-founder of the University of the Third Age (U3A) South Africa. At 91 years old, Sylvia walked up three flights of stairs to the Bush Radio studio without a lift, proving that age is nothing but a number when passion and purpose are your driving force.

What is U3A?

The University of the Third Age (U3A) is a global nonprofit movement that creates opportunities for seniors to keep learning, stay stimulated, and connect socially  without the pressure of exams. Founded in South Africa in 2000 by Sylvia and her late husband Arthur, U3A has grown from a small dream into a national network of 40 branches and more than 15,000 members. From guest lectures and courses to choirs, dance groups, and walking clubs, U3A offers retirees a way to keep their minds active and their spirits young. As Sylvia reminded us:

 “If you keep busy, you keep young. But not just busy with exercises — busy with things that mean something to you.”

How It All Began

The story of U3A in South Africa began quite simply. On a flight back from visiting their children abroad, Sylvia and Arthur realized how much they would miss the U3A groups they had joined in London and Australia. Instead of accepting that, they decided to create one at home in Cape Town.

They thought they might attract 50 members. Instead, they sparked a movement that today spans the country from Somerset West to the Cape Flats, from False Bay to Mitchell’s Plain. Sylvia recalled how she stood outside a summer school with stacks of application forms, persuading strangers to join. By the end, she had a dry throat  but also a group of committed volunteers ready to give courses.


Diversity and Growth

This year marks 25 years of U3A in South Africa, celebrated in style at the Baxter Theatre with over 300 seniors in attendance. Choirs sang, dancers performed (yes, even the Jerusalema made it to the stage), and branches from across the country shared their spirit of lifelong learning.

Sylvia is particularly proud of how U3A has expanded into more diverse communities like Gugulethu, Athlone, and Mitchell’s Plain. “We always had the purpose to be diverse,” she said, “and now it’s actually happening. I’m so happy about it.”


The Message for Young and Old

Sylvia’s wisdom is timeless:

For seniors: “As well as food and shelter, older people need stimulation. Education, mental exercise, and companionship keep life meaningful.”

For young people: “Don’t ever think you’re too small to make a difference. One person can. Look at U3A , it was the right idea at the right time, and it grew like the measles.”

For all of us: Staying curious and active is the real secret to longevity.

At 91, Sylvia’s advice is simple but powerful: keep learning, keep moving, and keep connecting.


Want to Get Involved?

U3A is run entirely by volunteers and welcomes anyone with time during the working day , not only retirees. From giving a lecture to starting a walking group or simply attending a course, there’s a place for you.

๐Ÿ‘‰ For more info, email Sylvia Schrire at sylvia.schrire@gmail.com or visit the U3A South Africa website.


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