From Hai Xuan

An art exhibition was held in September at Tsinghua’s Senior Center to celebrate the 15th anniversary of Tsinghua’s College for Senior Citizens. All the 402 exhibited items, including the Chinese paintings, calligraphy, photographs, and ikebana, were created by the students from the College.

(Exhibited artworks   Photo by Chen Hong)

The College was launched at Tsinghua in 1992 for seniors and retirees. Thousands of people have taken part in its courses and programs. More than 2,500 certifications for different courses have been conferred to qualified graduates. The College now provides 38 programs in painting and calligraphy, photography, computer technology, Chinese ancient literature, English language, music, health care, etc. Some students have been taking various programs and stayed within the College for more than ten years. Attending classes regularly in this “Spiritual Home” has become an integral part of their daily lives.

(Aged actors and actresses play an English drama. Photo provided by College for Senior Citizens)

According to statistics from the State Council, the population of over-60-year-old Chinese citizens reached 145 million and will increase to 240 million by year 2020. It is of great importance to provide adequate facilities and services for aged citizens and help them to live comfortable and meaningful lives.