SINGAPORE - The People's Association (PA) will be stepping up its efforts to help senior citizens stay active as they age.

From September, it will offer the Advanced Certificate in Senior Wellness to seniors who want to learn more about cooking, crafts or staying healthy.

It is a six-month programme comprising 12 courses and community services, and will be offered to students who have already completed the basic programme.

On Friday (July 29), 375 seniors formed the PA's Senior Academy's second batch of graduates - more than last year's pioneer batch of 250.

The academy, launched in February last year, has received more than 6,000 registrations for courses in areas as diverse as cooking, traditional Chinese medicine and playing the ukulele.

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, who was the guest of honour, said he was encouraged by what seniors have learnt in their courses.

He quipped in Mandarin: "Normally when I attend graduation ceremonies, they are for kindergarten students.

"I hope everyone will continue their learning journey."