Varatha Shanmuganathan, an 87-year-old grandmother, has made history at York University, Canada, by becoming the institution’s oldest-ever graduate. She recently earned her second master’s degree, proving that education has no age limit and that lifelong learning is always possible.
A Life Fueled by Learning
Born in Velanai, a small village in northern Sri Lanka, Varatha’s passion for knowledge started early. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Madras, India, before returning home to teach Indian history and English. Later, her love for education took her to London, where she earned her first master’s degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of London while teaching English as a Second Language.
A New Chapter in Canada
In 2004, she moved to Canada to live closer to her daughter, a proud graduate of York University’s Schulich School of Business. Soon, she discovered that York offers free tuition for older adults, an opportunity that reignited her academic ambitions. In 2019, she enrolled in a Master’s program in Political Science, focusing her research on the Sri Lankan civil war and the struggle for peace—topics deeply tied to her personal journey.
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Overcoming the Odds
Despite the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Varatha stayed committed to her studies. Her determination paid off in 2024 when she graduated alongside 4,000 other students. By doing so, she officially became the oldest person in York University’s history to earn a master’s degree.
She described the moment as life-changing: “On November 1st, I was just an ordinary woman. On November 2nd, everything changed.”
Recognition and Inspiration
York University’s President, Rhonda Lenton, praised her accomplishment: “She represents the best of what York University stands for—access to education, inclusivity, and a determination to build a better future.”
Her story has since inspired thousands around the world, proving that dreams are never limited by age.
What’s Next?
Now a double master’s degree holder, Varatha is already working on her next big goal: writing a book about post-war Sri Lanka. Through it, she plans to share her insights on peace, democracy, and reconciliation.
Her message to the world is simple but powerful: “You should always have a goal in life. Find something meaningful—something that helps others. Pursue it. Achieve it.”
Credit: Allschool,Allcbts
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