Grandfather And Grandson Graduate Together!
Updated : Jun 16, 2009
A 96-year-old Taiwanese man who enrolled for university to set an example for his grandson has graduated with a master's degree.
Chao Muhe, 96, and grandson Zhao Shuangzhan, 32, graduated on the same day, reports IC Media.
Chao, a retired university teacher, said he started his university studies again six years ago when his grandson was set to enroll for university.
"He didn’t work hard at all. So to set a good example for him, I told him I am to apply for university studies with him," said Chao.
He received his master’s degree in philosophy from the University of South China in southern Taiwan, while his grandson graduated from Chung Hua University.
Chao, better known to his classmates as Grandpa Chao, said he had also needed a new interest after being told he was too old to continue as a volunteer at a local hospital.
And he never missed a class - despite needing to get up at 5am each day to catch several buses to get to university.
And although he was more than 70 years older than his classmates, he says he did not feel out of place.
"We are good friends," said Chao, but added that he often had to study until 2am or even 3am to keep up with his younger classmates.
Grandpa Chao’s thesis tutor, Chen Dezhi, said his thirst for knowledge was an inspiration to the other students.
VeryHappyPig would like to congratulate Grand Pa Chao. VHP’s Grandfather would also be a great student. Not necessarily in terms of academic success, he would love the drinking and partying culture and fit right in.
