70-year-old woman bags master’s degree after years of working as a salesgirl
Onikeoke Mabel Ayodele Ayodeji, a 70-year-old Nigerian woman, has talked about how she overcame hardship to earn a master’s degree.
Ayodele, a Nigerian native from Ondo State, saw a dramatic change in her life in 1967 when she left her little town in search of educational opportunities that her parents could not afford.
After finishing what was referred to as “Modern 3,” Ayodele’s academic career abruptly ended, leaving her at a crossroads.
She was discouraged, seeing her companions go on with their academics while she fell behind. She decided to become a salesgirl in an effort to make ends meet.
Ayodele faced difficulties on her journey to self-sufficiency since she had to take on the tough job of managing a canteen populated by rowdy guys.
She persisted in her efforts to further her studies in spite of the misfortunes and abuse she endured.
When one of Ayodele’s professors saw her intellectual potential, it was a game-changer for her.
Describing an incident that strengthened her resolve.
“One day, my teacher came to class when I was in Modern school and asked us to prepare for an impromptu test. After he had marked my script, he commended me and said he wished I’d become a professor by the time he returns in 10 years’ time!” she shared.
These encouraging words became the driving force behind Ayodele’s unwavering resolve to achieve her educational aspirations, even in the face of financial constraints and numerous obstacles.
See Netizens Reactions below…
Jumoke Akinwande said; “Congratulations mama, dream come true.”
Eso Motunrayo said; “Congratulations to you my dear sister.”
Prince Agbaje Arasa said; “Nice dream and the achievement, kudos and congratulations ma.”
bamijinadu said; “I’m happy that you are setting this type of precedent for people to know that age has nothing to do with education and besides we don’t stop learning, it’s never too late to learn, I’m learning the Spanish language at the age of 50 now when I finished learning Chinese at the age of 38 years, learning will keep you younger.”
gbemzoobaby said; “Maami…. mama olorire,,, mama dada…. the entire dynasty is proud of you mum. I love you so much.”