Two models of age-friendly universities: Dublin City University and the University of Ljubljana

The concept of the Age-Friendly University (AFU) is establishing itself as an organizatio­nal unit within existing universities. On an individual level, the AFU provides education for older people, promotes the acquisition of high-quality knowledge and strengthens social ties. As a space for interdisciplinary research, the AFU acts as an incubator for innovation and works with the local community. It also plays a key role in internatio­nal networking and promotes the concept of an age-friendly society. The AFU positions itself in the public space as an integral part of an age-friendly ecosystem that enables older people to actively participate in society. At the national and transnational level, it can be a platform for inter-ministerial cooperation with the aim of developing strategies that improve the conditions for quality ageing.

The differences between the two case studies – the AFU at Dublin City University and the Faculty of Active Wisdom at the University of Ljubljana – arise from the different interpretation of the basic principles of the initiative, the different lengths of operation, local characteristics, cultural characteristics, understanding of the concept of educati­on, and institutional arrangements, as well as the differences in funding. Despite these differences, both institutions follow the ten principles of the AFU and recognize the key role of the university in addressing the societal challenges of an ageing population. It is precisely the diversity of actions and challenges that opens up opportunities for the exchange of best practices and the joint search for solutions to the complex issues of an ageing society.