The GCSE results were declared last week and many pupils have received a record number of top grades across England. While it’s always essential to applaud the efforts of young children amid the pandemic, Asian Voice brings you a success story of a not so young student, who is an inspiration for the community.
Manu Chowdhury, 53, from Manchester appeared for her GCSE exams and has fared well. She returned to education after 34 years. Speaking exclusively to Asian Voice, Manu Chowdhury said, "I always wanted to pursue higher education in my youth but was unable to as I got married at a young age. My priorities changed when I became a mother. I could not pursue my dream of obtaining a degree and work full-time at the same time.
“I started working for the NHS in 1989 and have been there ever since. Returning to education after a 34-year gap was very challenging, especially while also working full-time as a medical secretary. Then, as Covid hit, it all got quite stressful. I had to get used to virtual learning while also balancing doing my GCSEs and working full-time.
“I have a very supportive family who encouraged me to complete the course and supported me to follow my dreams. I will be starting an access course in September and hope to complete a healthcare-related degree at university."
Her son Areeq Chowdhury, 29, shared his happiness on social media about this achievement. "I'm very proud of my mum and feel inspired by her determination to return to formal education after so many years. Judging by the reaction on social media, it's clear many people feel the same. I hope her story can help inspire others to pursue further education in future regardless of age or circumstance,” Areeq told Asian Voice.
