AFRICA | A 94-year-old Nigerian man named Pa Adedapo Idowu is a prove that age is no barrier to learning.
The determined man successfully registered for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), with his sights set on earning a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science at the University of Ibadan (UI).
UTME is an entrance exam for Nigerian students seeking to enroll in higher education. The exam is also known as JAMB, which is an acronym for Joint Admissions Matriculation Board, the board that organizes the examination.
Pa Idowu has always cherished the dream of attaining a tertiary education. However, for decades, he doubted whether the JAMB system would accommodate someone of his age. Now, at 94, he’s finally taking that bold step.
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Pa Idowu’s story was recently highlighted in JAMB’s weekly bulletin, where he shared his surprise and admiration for the efficiency and accessibility of the registration process.
Despite concerns about age-related limitations, the system welcomed him like any other candidate, reaffirming that education remains a right for all — regardless of age or background.
Sharing his message to other young scholars, especially young scholars, Pa Idowu encourages them to embrace professionalism in their academic pursuits, dedication to their dreams, and contentment in their journey.
In another story, a determined 71-year-old man named Kwesi Baiden has inspired many after he decided to return to high school years after he dropped out.
Kwesi who dropped out at a young age due to lack of money was among the candidates who registered for the 2024 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) at the Ahafoman Senior High School Examination, Ahafo in Ghana.
Kwesi, a father of four told an online journalist that he did not have the opportunity to attend basic school and obtain a certificate due to financial difficulties during his early years. Read more about Kwesi HERE.
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