02-07-2025
Pulpatta panchayat in Malappuram achieves U3A village status
Pulpatta grama panchayat in Malappuram on Wednesday achieved a milestone in the welfare of its senior citizens when the civic body was declared a complete U3A (University of the Third Age) village. Mahatma Gandhi (MG) University, Kottayam, and Butterfly Foundation helped the panchayat attain the landmark.
Hundreds of senior citizens attended a function held at Thrippanachi near Kizhissery celebrating Pulpatta's U3A achievement. Haris Beeran, MP, inaugurated the function. Panchayat president P.C. Abdurahman presided over the function. MG University Vice-Chancellor C.T. Aravindakumar said the university would support other panchayats to adopt the model.
U3A is a global movement focused on providing learning and social opportunities for retired persons, those in their 'third' age of life. It is an informal community of elderly people who come together to learn, share, and socialise.
MG University is the only university in India implementing U3A model, with over 3,000 senior citizens as active members. Pulpatta panchayat achieved the U3A status by setting up 42 units, with two units of 20 members each in all 21 wards.
Tony K. Thomas, MG University U3A director, underscored the importance of 'Idam' or space for the initiative. U3A mentor C. Thomas Abraham said that the functioning of U3A was based on principles of psychology, and the university would lead training in related fields.
M. Hafsath, welfare standing committee chairperson, welcomed the gathering. District panchayat member P.V. Manaf, Pulpatta panchayat vice president Nusreena Mol, members P.K. Shanti and Shoukath V., former panchayat presidents Moideenkutty Haji, C.H. Zainaba, and O.P. Kunhappu Haji, and block panchayat members Haridas Pulpatta and V. Komukutty spoke.
A book titled 'Idam – Katha Ithuvare' was released on the occasion. Mr. Manaf said that efforts would be made to expand the movement across the district.
