Learning knows no age limits, and Halima, at 67 years old, is a testament to that truth. Her academic journey began just last year, when, motivated by the encouragement of friends and neighbors, she decided to break free from illiteracy.
Halima attends a special school every day, alongside about 30 students ranging in age from 20 to 50. She is the oldest in the class and proudly sits in the front row, eager to learn. While she has a passion for reading and writing, she finds the science lessons particularly challenging, admitting, “These are difficult for me.” Nevertheless, Halima remains dedicated to her studies and has excelled in her exams, earning high marks in Kurdish, mathematics, religious studies, and social studies. Her classmates, many younger than her, admire her perseverance and say, “Age has not been a barrier to our education.”
Halima’s determination is fueled by the support she receives from her family. “In the past, they used to say girls should not study. Now, my husband and children support me, and I have been given the opportunity,” she said. Despite the challenges of her age, she enjoys her studies and finds them “very enjoyable.”
The school Halima attends is specifically designed for older learners eager to continue their education. The director of the illiteracy elimination program explains, “Around 80 students are currently enrolled across three stages. They take exams in all subjects annually, following the Ministry of Education’s curriculum.”
For Halima, education is not just about textbooks—it’s about proving that learning is a lifelong journey, and she is determined to continue it, no matter the obstacles.