"Learning Is the Best Anti-Aging"... In Japan's Senior Universities, Only Nonagenarians Earn the 'Fossil' Title [Sunday Japanese Culture]

Senior Universities Begin New Terms in Mid-April
Nonagenarians Lead the Oldest Cohorts
Fierce Competition for Admission

Before we knew it, April has passed and we have entered the Golden Week holidays in May. In Japan, where both school and new job terms begin in April, this is a particularly busy time as people adjust to new environments. Amidst this hustle and bustle, there are some who are getting a slightly later start—Japan's seniors. Across the country, entrance ceremonies for senior (elderly) universities have recently taken place. At each university, it is common to see the oldest students being at least 90 years old. This week, I would like to share stories about Japan's senior universities.

On the 16th, the entrance ceremony was held at "Kariyushi Longevity University" in Okinawa. This year, 150 new students were selected, overcoming a competition ratio of 1 to 1.37. The average age of these new students is 74.5, and the oldest is a 94-year-old male student. In an interview with the local Ryukyu Broadcasting Corporation, he said, "Just being able to move my body itself is a pleasure." The oldest female student is 88, and she shared that, as one of eight siblings, she was unable to attend school properly in her youth, and is now finally taking on the challenge of studying in earnest.

On the 16th, freshman students are listening to an encouragement speech at the entrance ceremony of Ochiai Shiraume University for seniors in Okayama Prefecture. TBS.

Similar scenes unfolded in other regions as well. On the same day, the entrance ceremony for the lifelong learning program "Ochiai Shiraume University" in Okayama Prefecture, which is open to those aged 60 and over, was also held. This year, there are 193 new students, with an average age of 78 and the oldest being 95. Local media shared the impressions of the oldest student, Masae Ikeda, who said, "Just being able to go out where people are is enjoyable." You can really sense the mix of nervousness and excitement that comes from meeting new people.

In Yokohama, a senior university for those aged 60 and older began its term last week. This institution started in 1976 as the "Yokohama City Welfare College for the Elderly," and this year marks its 50th anniversary. What is notable here is that rather than simply attending lectures, students create their own autonomous curriculum each year based on their personal needs. Operating committees are formed by local senior clubs, focusing on four themes: ▲Health & Welfare ▲Culture & Liberal Arts ▲Daily Living ▲Life’s Fulfillment, Exchange & Fellowship. Through these committees, autonomous courses needed by seniors are set up and students are recruited accordingly.

Brochure of the senior college "Premium College" at Tokyo Metropolitan University. It features the slogan "Lifelong Learning at the 100-Year University." Tokyo Premium College.

In Japan, senior universities run by local governments are quite active. As seen in Yokohama, many are operated by local residents themselves. Classes are not limited to computer use or internet searches; club activities are also thriving, offering seniors opportunities to discover new meaning in life. Especially for the elderly, these programs help prevent dementia and encourage social participation, drawing attention as a new welfare policy.

In some municipalities, entrance is even competitive. Tokyo’s "Premium College," operated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, has adopted the slogan "A 100-Year University for Lifelong Learning." Applicants must be at least 50 years old, and the selection process includes a first-round essay and a second-round interview. Considerable preparation is required for admission.

There are times when learning itself feels burdensome to me as well. In the midst of my own struggles, news of these senior university entrance ceremonies left a deep impression on me. It seems to show that learning can once again become a driving force in life. I wholeheartedly support these seniors as they continue their journey of learning.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.