Grandfather, 68, graduates with first-class social work degree

Chris Osagbaekhoe, a 68-year-old grandfather of 12 residing in Thamesmead, South London, has achieved a first-class honours degree in social work from Goldsmiths, University of London. He received his BA at the Queen Elizabeth II Centre in Westminster on Wednesday, September 2. Osagbaekhoe, who was born in Nigeria, previously studied psychology and counselling between 2013 and 2015. He decided to pursue social work as a mature student at the age of 64, motivated by a desire to assist society's most vulnerable individuals.

Osagbaekhoe lives with a disability that affects his mobility and causes him pain, stemming from one leg being shorter than the other, which impacts his spinal cord. This condition makes walking long distances difficult. He transferred to Goldsmiths in New Cross in 2024 after encountering challenges. He told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that his motivation was to empower people and to be a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves. He expressed happiness that resilience and faith, alongside support from Goldsmiths, led to this success.

University Support and Future Plans

The university provided essential accommodations for Osagbaekhoe's disability, including a suitable parking space. He stated this was a significant support, as public transport would have been difficult due to his mobility issues and the proximity of the nearest train station to the campus. Driving to Goldsmiths made his studies more manageable. He hopes his graduation will serve as an inspiration to other mature students and individuals with disabilities, encouraging them to pursue their aspirations.

Looking ahead, Osagbaekhoe plans to establish a community-based project or open a community centre. His aim is to support young people and guide them away from criminal activities. He also intends to seek his first job as a qualified social worker. He noted that his achievement has been met with widespread congratulations from family and friends, who now view him as a pacesetter and an inspiration.

Dr Carmen Yau, a Lecturer in Social Work at Goldsmiths, commended Osagbaekhoe's journey, describing it as a testament to extraordinary determination, courage, and hope. She remarked that his story highlights the transformative power of education at any life stage and reinforces the values of social work education at Goldsmiths, including belief in potential, resilience, and hope.