In Domžale, a smaller Slovenian town took place the 5th bi-annual Festival of knowledge and culture in later life. “I am proud that over three decades and a half Slovenia has become one of the most holistic and leading institutions for older adult education, that this festival celebrates art and creativity that accompany ageing. Those who are ageing must have an opportunity to appear in public in a way that is good for entire society» said one of the Slovenian Third Age students.
Bi-annual International Festival of Knowledge and Culture in Later Life is one of the rare festivals of its kind in Europe. It is coordinated by the Network of Slovenian third age universities. It has been made possible by the co-funding by the Ministry of Education. Each time the festival moves to another region and smaller towns. In Domžale were present performers from Croatia, Germany and Italy. They played the plays they had written themselves, exhibited their thematic paintings, discussed their transnational projects and their results like short featured films on active ageing, and documentary films on migrants. “With this festival the University consolidates the established and new connections. Knowledge, art and culture make older people a social group that is very much alive«, that want to be heard and seen in public, surrounded by those who have expectations towards them and want to be in a transformative contact with them. »The Festival addresses also young people inviting them to participate in cultural geragocics« says Alijana Šantej, the initiator and directress of this Festival. (Source: Alijana Šantej)