Salima Khan, a 92-year-old great-grandmother from Bulandshahr in Uttar Pradesh, India, has achieved a remarkable milestone in her life by learning how to read and write. Born around 1931 and married at the tender age of 14, Salima’s pursuit of education had been hampered by the absence of schools in her village during her formative years.
However, determination knows no age, and Salima embarked on an extraordinary educational journey six months ago, enrolling in a school where her fellow students were nearly eight decades younger. Accompanied by her grandson’s wife, Salima attended classes, igniting a passion for learning that would capture the hearts of many when a video of her counting from one to 100 went viral on social media.
Salima Khan’s motivation to acquire literacy skills and learn to read and write stemmed from a practical need—she was unable to count currency notes accurately. This vulnerability had been exploited by her grandchildren, who would trick her into giving them extra money. Fueled by a strong desire to overcome this limitation, Salima dedicated herself to her studies, declaring confidently, “Those days are gone.”
India, like many nations, grapples with issues related to literacy and education. According to the 2011 census, the country’s literacy rate stands at approximately 73%. Salima’s incredible journey serves as a testament to the idea that the quest for knowledge is not bound by age, and it is never too late to embark on a journey of learning and self-improvement.
Salima’s educational journey was made possible with the assistance of volunteers from a government education initiative who identified her as a potential student. They encouraged her to attend school despite the significant age gap with her classmates. Initially, there were reservations among teachers about instructing someone of her age, but they were soon won over by Salima’s unwavering passion for learning.
Pratibha Sharma, the headmistress of the school Salima attended, recalled that they couldn’t bring themselves to turn her away. Salima’s determination not only empowered her but also served as an inspiration to others in her village. In the wake of her remarkable journey, 25 women from her village, including two daughters-in-law, have also enrolled in literacy classes, signaling the transformative power of Salima’s pursuit of education.
Guinness World Records recognizes the late Kimani Ng’ang’a Maruge from Kenya as the oldest person to complete primary school. Maruge’s journey began in 2004 when he enrolled in school at the age of 84. A former Mau Mau guerrilla fighter who had fought against British colonial forces, Maruge was motivated to learn how to count money and read the Bible. His educational journey serves as a poignant reminder that the pursuit of knowledge is a lifelong endeavor that transcends age and circumstance.
Salima Khan’s achievement is not only a personal triumph but also a powerful reminder that the quest for knowledge knows no bounds, and it can bring joy, empowerment, and inspiration at any stage of life.
