A Nigerian-born grandfather, Chris Osagbaekhoe, has graduated with a first-class degree in Social Work from Goldsmiths, University of London, at the age of 68.
Osagbaekhoe, who lives in Thamesmead, south-east London, completed the four-year programme after enrolling as a mature student at 64, the BBC reported.
Born and raised in Nigeria, he previously studied Psychology and Counselling between 2013 and 2015 before deciding to pursue a career in Social Work.
Speaking to the BBC, Osagbaekhoe said his decision was driven by a desire to help vulnerable people and empower them to overcome challenges.
“Part of the inspiration was to empower people to empower themselves, and part of the motivation was to be a voice to the voiceless – that was my inner drive,” he said.
Goldsmiths said Osagbaekhoe is a father of four, grandfather of 12 and a person living with a disability.
The university said his experience of living with a disability encouraged him to advocate for people whose voices are often unheard.
“There are abilities in disability. My lived experience has given me empathy, understanding and the determination to empower others,” Osagbaekhoe said.
“Nothing gives me greater satisfaction than seeing people overcome adversity, regaining confidence and living with dignity.”
Resilience through academic challenges
According to Goldsmiths, Osagbaekhoe began his Social Work degree in 2022 and transferred to the university in 2024 after experiencing setbacks in his academic journey.
Despite the difficulties, the university said he remained focused on his goal of supporting vulnerable people, protecting families and helping individuals overcome challenges.
Speaking after receiving his degree, Osagbaekhoe said the journey had not been without obstacles but expressed gratitude for the support he received.
“I’m happy there were challenges along the way, but because of resilience and faith, and the support from Goldsmiths University, we are celebrating success today,” he said.
He said his achievement should encourage people to pursue their ambitions regardless of age.
“If I can achieve this at 68, others can too. People are often far stronger and more capable than they realise. Life experience builds resilience, compassion and wisdom, qualities that are invaluable in social work and in life,” he said.
Osagbaekhoe is now seeking his first role as a qualified social worker.
He also hopes to establish a community project for young people aimed at helping them avoid crime, according to the BBC.
‘Your dreams do not expire’
Goldsmiths said Osagbaekhoe hoped his graduation would inspire mature students and people living with disabilities to pursue their ambitions.
As he walked across the stage during his graduation, he shared a message he hoped would encourage others.
“Your dreams do not expire because of your age,” he said.
Dr Carmen Yau, a lecturer in Social Work at Goldsmiths, described his journey as one of “extraordinary determination, courage, and hope”.
Yau said his story demonstrated that education could be transformative at any stage of life and reflected important values of social work, including belief in people’s potential, resilience and hope.
Osagbaekhoe’s achievement has highlighted the possibility of pursuing education and professional goals regardless of age or personal challenges.