A 68-year-old Nigerian grandfather has earned a first-class degree in social work from Goldsmiths, University of London, after returning to university as a mature student.
Chris Osagbaekhoe, who was born and raised in Nigeria and now lives in Thamesmead, south-east London, graduated with a BA (Hons) in Social Work on September 2.
The father of four and grandfather of 12 began studying social work at 64, motivated by a desire to support vulnerable people and speak up for those whose voices are often overlooked.
“Part of the inspiration was to empower people to empower themselves, and part of the motivation was to be a voice to the voiceless,” he said.
Osagbaekhoe had previously studied psychology and counselling between 2013 and 2015 before deciding to pursue social work.
His journey was not without difficulties. According to Goldsmiths, he experienced setbacks during his studies and transferred to the university in 2024.
He nevertheless remained determined to complete his education.
His own experience with disability also shaped his interest in supporting vulnerable people and advocating for others.
“There are abilities in disability. My lived experience has given me empathy, understanding and the determination to empower others,” Osagbaekhoe said.
He hopes his achievement will encourage other mature students and people living with disabilities to continue pursuing 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,” he said.
Osagbaekhoe credited resilience, faith and the support he received from Goldsmiths for helping him overcome the challenges he encountered during his studies.
He is now seeking his first job as a qualified social worker, but his ambitions extend beyond building a career.
The Nigerian-born graduate hopes to establish a community-based project or centre where young people can receive support and guidance, particularly those at risk of becoming involved in crime.
He also plans to use his musical abilities to inspire young people. Osagbaekhoe is a multi-instrumentalist who plays the drums, keyboard, guitar, bass guitar and trumpet.
Goldsmiths social work lecturer Dr Carmen Yau described his journey as one of “extraordinary determination, courage, and hope.”
She said his story showed that education could transform lives at any stage and reflected key values of social work, including resilience and belief in people’s potential.
For Osagbaekhoe, however, the first-class result represents more than an academic achievement.
His return to education at 64 and graduation at 68 has become a personal example of what he believes is possible when age is not allowed to become a barrier.
As he celebrated his achievement, he offered a simple message to others still pursuing their ambitions: “Your dreams do not expire because of your age.”
