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Age is no barrier to learning, as demonstrated by 94-year-old Pa Adedapo Idowu, who has registered for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) to pursue his lifelong dream of studying Political Science at the University of Ibadan.
Idowu completed his registration at the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Professional Test Center in Ibadan, Oyo State, and expressed delight at the seamless process. He commended JAMB for leveraging technology, particularly the integration of the National Identity Number (NIN), which made data collection efficient and the registration process user-friendly.
The nonagenarian admitted that he initially had reservations about pursuing higher education at his age, but his smooth registration experience reinforced his belief that it was never too late to chase a dream.
“I can now attain my dream at an advanced age. The registration staff gave me a sense of belonging through their warm reception,” he said.
Encouraging fellow candidates, Idowu advised them to embrace professionalism and contentment in their academic journey. He also urged JAMB to sustain its efforts in ensuring education remains accessible to all, including the elderly, the underprivileged, and persons with disabilities.
His inspiring story, featured in JAMB’s latest bulletin, has resonated with many, particularly younger candidates, who have drawn motivation from his determination.
Reacting to the development, psychologist Olugbenga Ayodele noted that pursuing education at an advanced age could positively impact Idowu’s well-being.
“When you set a new vision, it gives you a reason to live. It’s similar to women having their first baby at an older age—the excitement keeps them going. Papa’s new dream will make him feel younger, especially when he finds himself in class with students younger than his grandchildren,” Ayodele remarked.
Pa Idowu’s story stands as a testament to the fact that lifelong learning knows no age limit.
