‘Knowledge Is a Treasure’: Italy’s Oldest Student Graduates University at 96 Years of Age

‘Knowledge Is a Treasure’: Italy’s Oldest Student Graduates University at 96 Years of Age
Guglielmo Mangiapane/REUTERS
Reuters
Updated:

At 96, Giuseppe Paterno has faced many tests in life—childhood poverty, war and, more recently, the global pandemic. Now, he has sailed through an exam that makes him Italy’s oldest university graduate.

This week, the former railway worker stepped forward to receive his diploma and the traditional laurel wreath awarded to Italian students when they graduate, applauded by his family, teachers and fellow students more than 70 years his junior.