Graduation at age 63; former Bahrain expatriate is now a role model

Manama: A former expatriate of Bahrain in Kannur at 63 years of age has pulled off BA degree from Calicut University, proving that age is no barrier to learning.

Born in a poor family in Koodali, VV Premarajan hailing from Attappa in the district, dropped out after passing class 10.

Quitting the job at a metal work company in Thottada, Premarajan went to Bahrain to work in a garage in Salmabad, repairing silencers of vehicles.

It was then that he joined philanthropic activities working as the convenor of Bahrain Pratibha in Salamabad area.

Even people of other Indian states came to him for help when they were in trouble.

Riding a bike around, he made garage workers of Salmabad area join the outfit.

Back home after ending expatriate life, Premarajan became active in social work here as well.

Working as the secretary of the Attappa Gramaudharana vayanasla, his thoughts turned to resuming his stalled education.

Starting Plus Two studies through Kerala's adult literacy movement, he became the first and oldest student in the state to pass Plus Two with full A plus.

Subsequently, he obtained a degree studying in distance mode under the University of Calicut.

Premarajan, who received graduation certificate from Pro Vice Chancellor Dr. M. Nasser, harbours the dream to become a lawyer.

He was encouraged in his pursuit of learning by his wife Anita, who is a teacher retired from Varam UP School, and his children Dr. Ashwant and Dr. Aishwarya.

Pratibha General Secretary Mijosh Morazha and President Binu Mannil said they are proud of the achievement of their outfit’s former member, Premarajan.