Oldest Saudi student proves age no bar to learning

Riyadh — Hamoud Al-Shammari, 66, has proved that age is no bar to learning. Al-Shammari had to discontinue his studies due to pressing circumstances some 24 years ago. But he never lost hope and managed to finish his middle and high school even at a ripe age. His determination to pursue his studies got him admitted to Al-Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University in Riyadh. He will graduate in two years from now. Al-Shammari told AlArabiya.Net: “I studied the history of religion and I will not stop my studies until I get my PhD. I believe that education is not limited to age as it should be from the cradle to the grave. I raised 10 sons and it is time for me now to continue my studies.” He said: “I first got into the Arabic language department although it was not my ambition, then moved to the history of religion and was encouraged by professors, friends and students. What helped me in my studies was the experience that I have been through in my life, living in the desert and raising 10 children. Many of my colleagues seek my advice and we all help each other.” Al-Shammari caught the attention of Dr. Fawaz Al-Laaboun, head of the literature department at the Faculty of Arabic language at Al-Imam University, who filmed him in the classroom. The video became viral on social media. Dr. Laaboun told AlArabiya.Net that he recorded the video to encourage other students.