The Polytechnic Institute of Viseu (IPV) has taken a strategic step in strengthening its social and academic responsibility with the creation of a Pro-Presidency for Longevity, led by Lia Araújo.
This initiative positions IPV as an institution committed to addressing the challenges and opportunities associated with population ageing, aligning with European and international priorities in this field.
Lia Araújo believes that Higher Education Institutions “play a decisive role in promoting quality of life throughout the life course, contributing to more inclusive, sustainable, and intergenerational societies”. In this context, IPV aims to establish itself as an “age-friendly university,” fostering the personal, social, and professional development of older adults.
The new Pro-Presidency recognises ageing as a social achievement, while also acknowledging it as a phenomenon that requires innovative responses. Its action plan is inspired by international frameworks such as the Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021–2030), promoted by the World Health Organization, the Age-Friendly Cities and Communities programme, and the Age-Friendly University Global Network led by Dublin City University.
The plan is structured around three main objectives: encouraging the active participation of older adults in IPV’s activities; strengthening students’ awareness of the value and complexity of longevity; and promoting the engagement of the institution’s retired community.
To bring this vision to life, several initiatives are planned, including the development of micro-credentials for individuals aged 50+, the creation of a living lab dedicated to applied research in longevity, and the establishment of partnerships with companies and social organisations. At the same time, communication and awareness-raising actions will be promoted, reinforcing IPV’s role as an agent of social change.
Through this strategy, the Polytechnic Institute of Viseu aims to empower older adults, promoting their active participation in academic and community life, while expanding opportunities for lifelong learning.
As a member of the European University for Customised Education alliance, IPV’s commitment to longevity also reflects a broader European vision. EUNICE brings together ten universities across Europe to develop innovative, inclusive, and personalised education models, while fostering collaboration between academia, society, and industry to address key societal challenges.
In this context, the Pro-Presidency for Longevity aligns closely with EUNICE’s mission to promote lifelong learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and social engagement. By integrating longevity into its institutional strategy, IPV contributes to the alliance’s goal of building more inclusive and resilient European societies, while opening opportunities for future joint initiatives, knowledge exchange, and research on active ageing and demographic transformation across partner universities.
