79-Year-Old Grandpa Graduates With A PhD Despite Having Cataracts In Both Eyes
Muharam said his profound love for knowledge motivated him to persevere in completing his studies.
By Melissa Alvina — 05 Dec 2023, 05:01 PM
A Malaysian grandfather has proven that age is no barrier to academic success by earning a PhD in his late 70s
The senior graduate, Dr Muharam Awang, recently obtained his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Malay Literature from University Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
According to Sinar Harian, the father of seven and grandfather to 17 is a retired educator who had served as a high school teacher and college lecturer.
Recounting his academic journey, Muharam shared that he encountered numerous challenges while pursuing his PhD
Muharam, who suffered from cataracts, said he faced difficulties travelling from Melaka to the campus, which is located in Bangi.
Muharam also said due to his blurry vision, he required his son's assistance to write his thesis.
"I had to ask my son, who is residing in Batu Pahat, Johor, to type out the thesis for me. My impaired vision made it impossible for me to read while working on the thesis," Sinar Harian quoted him as saying.
"I underwent cataract surgery last May, and thankfully, after my vision recovered, I successfully completed the thesis," he added.
The 79-year-old also emphasised that his profound love for knowledge and thirst for learning motivated him to persevere in completing his studies despite facing numerous challenges.
Muharam said he initially decided to pursue his tertiary education in 1965 to become a secondary school teacher
Muharam added that high school teachers used to be held in high regard, which was why he furthered his studies.
The eager learner, who started his career as a primary school teacher, eventually pursued a diploma in 1965 and achieved his goal.
"Prior to my retirement, I also taught Form Six and worked as a lecturer in a college," said Muharam.
