Funchal Senior University opens with record 184 students
Madeira GuideUniversidade Sénior do Funchal has begun the 2026/2027 school year with its highest enrolment since it was founded.
Universidade Sénior do Funchal officially opened its 2026/2027 school year on Tuesday, 29 September, at the Sala da Assembleia Municipal. Education councillor Helena Leal attended with students, teachers and staff.
The university has 184 enrolled students, its highest total since it was created. Of those, 36 are attending for the first time.
The university offers 32 subjects in areas including physical activity, arts, languages, culture and technologies. New offerings include Migrações e a Interculturalidade, Força Sénior and Walking Football.
Leal said the municipality is promoting active ageing and diversifying the university's offer. She said ageing should increasingly be associated with quality, autonomy, health, participation and dignity.
Leal said the municipal executive will continue investing in the university, in student growth and in the quality, diversity and opportunities it offers. She described it as a space for learning, socialising, sharing, culture, creativity and personal enrichment. She said it gives students new opportunities for participation and project-building.
Founded in 2007, Universidade Sénior do Funchal was the first university of its kind in the Autonomous Region of Madeira. It aims to combine learning with socialising, culture and participation in the community.
This site previously reported that Funchal Senior University registration opens on 14 September.
Update — 2026-09-30
Helena Leal said the increase in enrolment was a reason for celebration and reflected work carried out over the years by teachers, staff and everyone involved in running the institution.
Sources
Madeira Guide
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