BREAKING NEWS: New Directive for 2026 Annual General Meeting

In a surprise move that aims to “reinvigorate the academic prestige” of the u3a movement, the National Office has issued a mandatory directive for all local branches regarding the conduct of their 2026 Annual General Meetings (AGMs).

Starting this year, in honour of our “University” roots, at least 20% of all formal proceedings must be conducted in Classical Latin.

A spokesperson for the “Committee for Classical Standards” stated: “We felt that the ‘University’ part of the u3a had become a bit too informal. By reintroducing the language of Cicero and Caesar, we believe that discussing the 2026 financial accounts will take on a much-needed sense of gravitas.”

What This Means for You

At our November AGM, members will notice several changes to the agenda including:

• The Vote: Instead of a show of hands or saying “Aye,” members must stand and clearly state “Affirmative” (for yes) or “Negat” (for no).
• Refreshments: Our traditional tea and biscuits will be served under the name ‘Gustatio’. In keeping with the theme, the committee has decided to replace the usual biscuits with Fig Rolls, which are historically more accurate to the Roman era.

Note from the Chair: Before you start dusting off your old school textbooks or shopping for togas, please take a quick look at today’s date. Happy April Fools’ Day! We promise the AGM will be held entirely in plain English—and the Digestives aren’t going anywhere.