A 64-year-old Nigerian man has graduated as a registered nurse in the United Kingdom, saying he hopes his achievement will inspire others to pursue higher education regardless of their age.
John Adesoye, who grew up in Nigeria, previously worked as an electronics technician in Greece before relocating to the UK in 2013, where he decided to pursue a career in healthcare.
The father of five has now secured a nursing position at Southmead Hospital in Bristol, the same hospital where he began working as a healthcare assistant in 2014.
“If I can do it, others can too. People are more brilliant and stronger than they think,” Adesoye said.
He explained that his decision to switch careers was driven by a passion for caring for others.
“When I was repairing electronic devices, I felt happy whenever I could get broken equipment working again. In healthcare, seeing patients recover gives me even greater joy and satisfaction,” he said.
As part of his registered nurse degree apprenticeship at the University of the West of England, Adesoye gained experience in several hospital departments, including cardiology, accident and emergency (A&E), and intensive care.
Despite completing his nursing degree, Adesoye said he has no plans to stop learning and hopes to pursue a master’s qualification if given the opportunity.
“The moment you start in higher education, you’ll see that the doors continue to open for you,” he said. “It’s never too late.”
During his apprenticeship, he spent one day each week studying at the university’s Glenside Campus in Fishponds, while working the rest of the week at Southmead Hospital.
Jacqui Caskey and Caroline Bromwich, co-leaders of the registered nurse degree apprenticeship programme, commended Adesoye’s commitment and perseverance.
“Being a nurse apprentice is no mean feat. They balance the demands of their studies with busy working lives, family responsibilities and caring commitments,” they said.
Professor Steve Hams, Chief Nursing Officer at Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, said the entire team was “incredibly proud” of Adesoye’s achievement.
