By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KAMPALA
At 77, John Edward Gachina is proving that education has no age limit. The retired civil servant, businessman, and author of The Odyssey of an African Man has enrolled for a Diploma in Business Administration at Kampala International University (KIU) Main Campus in Kansanga, making him the oldest undergraduate student in the university’s January 2025 intake.
Gachina’s academic journey has been one of resilience. As a young man, he aspired to become a doctor, but his dreams were cut short due to poor performance in science subjects at the Advanced Level. “Since I did not excel in science, I pursued certificates in bookkeeping and accounting,” he recalled.
In an interview with the university’s news website, Gachina shared the struggles of his early education. Despite earning good grades, his father denied him the opportunity to attend formal school. Determined to learn, he resorted to self-study, attending school only for examinations.
Now, decades later, Gachina is fulfilling his long-held dream of higher education. With his children holding master’s degrees and his daughter pursuing a PhD, he believes it’s his turn to be part of the academic world.
“My responsibilities have reduced; my children are grown, have their own families, and I have employees managing my shamba (farm). It is time for me to attend university,” he said.
Enrolled in KIU’s Open, Distance, and E-Learning (ODEL) program, Gachina will study from home but remains confident about completing his course successfully. “I have received my study modules and will return for exams. It will be smooth,” he said.
He also encouraged older adults to pursue their academic dreams, emphasizing that age should never be a barrier to education.
“To my fellow seniors, it is never too late. You can return to school or university, like KIU, to keep your mind active. With distance learning and online courses, there are no excuses,” he advised.
Quoting an African proverb, Gachina underscored the value of lifelong learning and mentorship for the younger generation.
“Old age is wisdom. Young people should prioritize their lives and seek knowledge from those with experience. If you walk with runners, you will be a runner; if you walk with the disobedient, you will be disobedient,” he said.
Gachina’s journey is a testament to perseverance, proving that passion and determination can transcend age. His story serves as an inspiration to all young and old that the pursuit of knowledge never stops.
