There is no age for learning: Is it possible to be successful even if you start late?
There is no age limit for learning. Even if you start late, it is possible to change your life if you have the desire and opportunity. This article is about how open education can show adults a new path.
There is no age for education: Is it possible to be successful even if you start late?
Many people do not want to give much importance to education at the beginning of their lives or many do not understand it or some do not do it due to financial problems. Then it seems that we work first, take care of the family first, or if we have money, education is not necessary, the mind interprets it in various ways (if there is a lack, the opportunity is lost) or we can study later. Again, some are forced to quit their studies midway due to family problems, financial pressure or lack of proper guidance. But as time goes by, a question arises in the mind—
“Ah, if I had studied then, maybe my life would have been different today.”
This feeling is very natural. Especially when we see that someone of our age or younger than us is doing a good job, is in a respectable position in society or has progressed in life. Then it seems that we may not have been able to utilize the time properly.
Is age really an obstacle to studying?
There is a common idea in our society—once you cross a certain age, you cannot study anymore. Many people think,
“What will people say if I start studying now?”
“My juniors have come a long way now, won’t they look down on me?”
These thoughts are actually our biggest enemies. Because these are not real obstacles, but mental fears. The truth is, there is no age limit to studying. If you have the desire to learn, you can start at any time. There are countless people in different countries of the world who have started studying again at the age of 30, 40, and even 50 and have succeeded.
Our own fear is the biggest obstacle
Many times we think about how society will see us. But in reality, people think about others very little. You have to make the decision to build your future. Because time will pass anyway. If you remain the same after five years, then the regret will increase even more.
If you decide today to start studying again—this decision can turn the corner of your life.
Why is an open and respectful education system for all important?
A big solution to these mental dilemmas is—an open education system for all. There is a need for schools, colleges and universities where age is not a barrier. Where even an adult student can study with respect, without shame or fear.
Bangladesh Open University (BOU) is playing an important role in this regard in Bangladesh. Age is not a problem here. This is a big opportunity for those who have dropped out of the regular education system.
The real challenges of Bangladesh Open University
However, speaking of reality, this system also has some limitations. The facilities have not yet reached all parts of the country as per the needs. In many cases, there are complications in the teaching and examination process.
Another big problem is cost. Sometimes students have to pay the entire fee at once, which is difficult for many. If the installment-based or easy payment system was more widespread, more people could have taken this opportunity.
It is possible to succeed even if you start late
Education is not just about certificates or degrees. Education changes people's thinking, increases decision-making ability and builds confidence. In the beginning, it may be difficult to manage time, and it may seem difficult to study alongside work. But gradually this habit becomes a strength.
In today's era, online courses, open universities and part-time education opportunities are more than ever before. All that is needed is determination and patience.
Education is not just for personal development
The purpose of education is not only to improve oneself, but also to build an educated and healthy nation. When a person studies professionally, his behavior, thoughts and outlook also change. An educated person can present a beautiful and positive image in front of the society.
Even if someone scolds him, he will understand that the path of education was the right one.
Because education teaches people patience, tolerance and self-respect.
Wrong ideas and social views
It is sad but true, some people in our society think that if someone studies more, then he will take away someone else's job or work.
This idea is completely wrong.
In fact, an educated person never thinks of harming others. Rather, before hurting someone, before speaking harshly, he thinks—
"He also has respect."
This humane sense is what education teaches us. So we should give everyone the opportunity to study, not discourage each other and not criticize anyone.
Conclusion
There is no age for studying. If you have the opportunity and desire, it is possible to build a new life at any time. Instead of regretting the past, it is the wisest thing to do today to take steps for the future. Because a small decision today can be the beginning of a big change tomorrow.
Author
Md. Nasir (English Version)
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