Never too late: 46-year-old man appears for JnU admission test

With grey stubble and thinning hair, Tawhidur Rahman Taku's face clearly reflects his age. However, his unwavering determination to study has led him to one of the most competitive university admission tests in the country.

Taku, a 46-year-old from Naogaon, recently sat for the admission test at Jagannath University (JnU). He took the "B" unit admission test under the Faculty of Arts and Law. He appeared for the exam in Room 418 at the Microbiology Department in the Shaheed Shajid Academic Building, surprising many other candidates with his presence.

He completed his Junior Dakhil Certificate (JDC) exam in 2019, followed by the Dakhil in 2021 and the Alim exam in 2024, all from Enayetpur Dakhil Madrasa and Goyra Tentulia Fazil Madrasa.

Taku had to pause his studies for an extended period due to illness. "I fell sick in 1989 and spent many years struggling. Around 2014-15, I started feeling better and decided to continue my education," he shared.

Although he wanted to sit for exams in 2016, he was instead sent to a rehabilitation centre. Finally, in 2019, he resumed his studies.

"I never gave up. Education has no age limit, and I want to prove that," Taku stated.

When asked about his future plans, Taku said, "If I don't get into Jagannath University this year, I will try again. I will also consider Rajshahi University or Jahangirnagar University."

If admitted to JnU, he confidently added, "I will definitely study at Jagannath University."

JnU Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Md Rezaul Karim acknowledged Taku's participation, saying, "We know about him. He is taking the B unit admission test today. We will check if everything is done properly."

The university authorities confirmed that as long as he follows the rules, his age will not be a problem.Notably, the "B" unit admission test under the Faculty of Arts and Law for the 2024-25 academic session is being held today at Jagannath University. A total of 55 candidates are competing for each seat, and among them is Tawhidur Rahman Taku, who has proven that age is never a barrier to education for those with determination.