Felister Akonaay, a 60-year-old grandmother is preparing to sit her Form Four national examinations in November 2026, more than four decades after she first set foot in a classroom.
Akonaay completed primary school in 1982, but the death of her father derailed any hope of continuing her education at that time.
Like many girls of her generation, she moved into family life, raising children and eventually becoming a grandmother, while the dream of a secondary school certificate quietly persisted.
Rather than accept that the opportunity had passed her by, Akonaay enrolled in secondary school later in life and worked her way through Form One and Form Two before reaching her current stage.
Why did Akonaay return to school?
She is now in final preparations for the Form Four national examinations.
Speaking about her decision to return to school, Akonaay said the desire had been with her since childhood.
“I had a dream of going to secondary school since childhood, but I never got the chance at that time, so when I got the opportunity later in life I decided to use it to fulfil my dream,” she said.
Akonaay’s teachers praise her hardwork, discipline
Her story was shared on Instagram by Raymond Willium on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, and quickly drew attention for the quiet determination it represents.
Those who have taught Akonaay along the way say her presence in the classroom has been felt beyond her own performance.
Her teachers described her as disciplined, hardworking and courageous, noting that her commitment has made her a role model not only to younger students but to the broader community.
Akonaay speaks to young people about education
Akonaay has also taken the opportunity to speak directly to young people, urging them not to waste the educational chances available to them.
She encouraged students to study hard and pursue their goals with intention, drawing on her own long wait as a reminder of what can be lost when opportunity is not taken seriously.
Akonaay’s journey is a quiet but powerful reminder that the window for learning does not close when school days end. Some dreams take decades to reach, but they remain within reach for those willing to go back for them.
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