Living in Moscow and over 55? Here's how can you enroll in the Silver University

Education
RUSSIA BEYOND
Older residents in Russia's capital will now be able to increase their productivity and sense of professional self-fulfillment thanks to new educational opportunities. What classes will be taught, and who can apply?

Moscow pensioners will be able to start a new professional chapter in their lives thanks to Silver University, which opens on Nov. 1. Men who are at least 60 years old, and women who are 55 and over, are invited to learn foreign languages and computer skills. They will also have access to job placement services, as well as the chance to make new contacts and spend time in a friendly social environment.

Courses cover a wide range of topics: food and health; finance and law; tech and gadgets; as well as sports and psychology. Students will also be able to become qualified babysitters.

Russia's capital, with a total population of more than 12 million, has about 2.5 million retired people. "Our goal is to prolong their creative and professional longevity with cultural and educational activities," said Moscow government official, Vladimir Petrosyan.

The application process begins on Oct. 16, and there will be several locations for courses so that retirees can attend closest to home. Each class group will have about 15-20 students, and about 2,600 pensioners are expected to enroll this year.