Suan Dusit University (SDU) reaffirms its role as a “University for a Learning Society” by continuously organizing public educational activities—especially those designed for older adults. These initiatives aim to promote lifelong learning, create new career opportunities, and enhance the quality of life after retirement. Under the theme “Learn and Earn: Happy Aging – Learning and Creating Work to Add Value for the Elderly,” SDU Suphanburi Campus has successfully implemented this project throughout the 2024 academic year.
Lifelong Learning for Older Adults
The Learn and Earn: Happy Aging program was conducted in three rounds in 2024 at Phuang Ngoen Conference Room, Muslim Training Center (Chancharoen Building), Suan Dusit University, Suphanburi Campus. The program was offered free of charge for senior citizens in the local community, encouraging them to learn new skills and make productive use of their time.
- Round 1: July 25–26, 2024 🔗 Read more
- Round 2: August 19–20, 2024 🔗 Read more
- Round 3: September 3–4, 2024 🔗 Read more
During the sessions, participants engaged in various activities, including:
• Developing supplementary occupations and local handicraft products
• Maintaining physical and mental well-being in aging
• Using digital technology creatively and safely
• Enhancing social skills and achieving happiness in daily life
This project not only provided older adults with new skills and income opportunities but also created a warm, inclusive, and empowering learning space that fostered friendship, sharing, and pride in lifelong learning.
The University’s Role as a “University for Society”
The Learn and Earn: Happy Aging project exemplifies SDU’s commitment to Public Lifelong Learning Events, directly addressing Thailand’s aging society. The university provides all activities free of charge, welcoming participants from diverse backgrounds—regardless of gender, age, or occupation.
All evidence and reports of the activities are publicly available on the official website of the Suphanburi Campus, ensuring transparency and accessibility. This initiative aligns with the evaluation criteria of the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings – SDG 4 (Quality Education), demonstrating the university’s strong contribution to equitable lifelong learning opportunities.
Outcomes and Achievements
Across the three rounds of the Learn and Earn program, more than 150 participants from Suphanburi and nearby provinces joined the activities. Most participants expressed that they felt motivated to reengage in work, start small businesses, and enjoy a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
Suan Dusit University has therefore become a model of community-based lifelong learning for older adults—proving that education can truly transform lives at any age.
Toward a Sustainable Learning Society
Suan Dusit University, Suphanburi Campus, has shown that education is not confined within university walls but can be extended to communities, fostering happiness, knowledge, and lifelong value. The Learn and Earn: Happy Aging initiative stands as a driving force for an Active Aging Society, empowering older adults to live with dignity, productivity, and well-being.
Through such inclusive learning opportunities, the university contributes directly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) — “Ensure inclusive and equitable lifelong learning opportunities for all.”