Universities of the Third Age (u3as) are autonomous, self-help organisations run by the voluntary efforts of their members. They are self-managed lifelong learning cooperatives for people no longer in full-time work. The word “university” in our title is used in its original sense of people coming together to share and pursue learning in all its forms. We are part of the Scottish u3a region.

Shetland is a group of islands half way between the Scottish mainland and Scandinavia. Sixteen of over a hundred islands are inhabited with a population of about 23,000. The islands are rich in heritage and culture and historically industry is based on fishing and farming. Lerwick is the main town and that is where many, although not all, of our activities are based, but our members come from all over Shetland. Our membership is a mix of Shetlanders and incomers. Shetland u3a is a small, but friendly and welcoming group.

If you would like to find out more, click on Contacts at the top of this page, go to the Groups pages to find out more or look at the Events page for a summary of what is on.

We are hoping to expand and to offer a wider variety of activities, and are keen to welcome new members. If you would like to meet new people and engage in discussion you would be very welcome!

We hope to meet you soon!