Learning knows no age limit: 83-year-old Egyptian woman obtains PhD in Sociology

CAIRO – July 6, 2026: Learning knows no age limit. Eighty-three-year-old Egyptian Amal Ismail Metwally Abdo has earned a PhD in sociology from the Faculty of Arts at Mansoura University, capping a decades-long educational journey marked by perseverance and resilience.

On July 5, Abdo was awarded her doctorate from the Department of Sociology at the Faculty of Arts for her dissertation, titled “Active Aging and Its Relationship to Some Sociological Variables: A Study of Selected Cases at Mansoura University.”

Her academic journey began later in life. Abdo obtained her preparatory school certificate at the age of 38 but had to suspend her studies after being diagnosed with cancer. After overcoming the illness, she resumed her education and completed high school at the age of 68. Three years later, she enrolled in the Department of Sociology at the Faculty of Arts at Mansoura University. In 2023, she earned a master's degree with distinction from the same faculty before continuing her doctoral studies.

Dakahlia Governor Major General Tariq Marzouq met with Abdo at the governorate headquarters on July 6 to honor her achievement. According to a statement issued by the governorate, the recognition celebrated her exceptional perseverance in pursuing education and overcoming life's challenges.

During the meeting, Marzouq presented Abdo with the governorate's shield, expressing his appreciation for her academic achievement, which he said reflects the values of knowledge, determination, and resilience. He added that her success sends a message of hope to younger generations by demonstrating that age is not a barrier to ambition and that perseverance is the key to achievement.

The governor also stressed that the Egyptian state, under the leadership of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, places significant emphasis on human development and the promotion of education and scientific research. He affirmed the governorate's commitment to recognizing individuals whose inspiring achievements encourage a culture of diligence and lifelong learning.

"Ms. Amal has set an inspiring example by continuing her educational journey despite numerous challenges," Marzouq said. "She proved that genuine determination can overcome obstacles and that learning is a lifelong journey."

For her part, Abdo expressed her gratitude for the recognition, saying the governor's support serves as a powerful source of encouragement and a message of appreciation for everyone who remains committed to achieving their dreams, regardless of age or circumstances.