Chris Osagbaekhoe, 68, who was born in Nigeria and has 12 grandchildren, graduated with first-class honours in Social Work from Goldsmiths, University of London, on September 2.

Mr Osagbaekhoe, who also holds certifications in psychology and counselling, said a burning desire to help vulnerable people motivated him to return to school at 64.

“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. 

He explained that his desire to serve others and make a difference helped him overcome the challenges of returning to university later in life and ultimately graduate with an excellent result.

“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,” Mr Osagbaekhoe said.

Me Osagbaekhoe lives with pain in his limbs as one leg is shorter which triggeres pain in his spine whenever he walks.