Mr Aaron Felokwakhe Mbili from Embo, Hillcrest (58) cerebrated his phenomenal accomplishment after obtaining his Advanced Diploma in Management Sciences specialising in Quality on Friday, 26 May 2023 at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Autumn Graduation,  which is being held at the Olive Convention Centre (OCC).

Going back to school in his age was not easy, considering the fact that he had not been studying for over a decade now. His journey had not been easy as he used to attend classes with people that are even younger than his children but he thanks God for always being with him all the way.

When he was asked what motivated him to go back to further his studies at this age he said, “The motivation behind going back to school is for the benefits of retraining and reskilling himself because I have not been to school for over a decade now and the world is revolving so I wanted to be updated with today’s skills,” said  Mbili. Also, he wants to improve his employability and productivity, especially as the retirement age is nearby.

“I wanted to be a great motivation to old people that no matter how old you are, you can still go back to school and obtain your qualification, imfundo ayikhulelwa,” he added.

Currently he works at Imani Fruit in New Germany. He is aiming to continue studying until he reaches his PhD level as he believes that the sky is the limit.

“If I can do it, everyone else can do it. I am motivating old people to go back to school and further their studies so that they will be updated with new technologies and modules as most of the modules we did have phased out, he said.

Mbili believes that studying at his age is beneficial for many reasons, not only for improving skills needed in the modern workplace. Learning at his age kept his brain active, and discussing ideas and socialising is an important part of the university experience. Studying is an effective way to tackle the spectre of isolation, loneliness and depression, which can accompany old age people like him.

Mr Mbili thanked his friends and family members for supporting him all the way.

Pictured: Mr Aaron Felokwakhe Mbili

Nomvelo Zulu.