WATCH: Eldos couple proves it's never too late to earn a Grade 12 certificate

A couple from Eldorado Park in Johannesburg has become local celebrities after earning their Grade 12 certificates earlier this month, proving that it's never too late to pursue education. Edmund, 50, and Catherine Kaas, 51, completed their long-awaited matriculation after nearly three decades of putting aside their schoolbooks, years during which they raised two daughters and cared for their extended family. The couple, who reside in the neighborhood often referred to as "Old Eldos," described their journey as one brimming with adventure and personal fulfillment. While their lives are centered around family and deep ties to their community, they've always harbored a desire to accomplish a key milestone in their lives. This ambition took shape when they stumbled upon a Facebook post about an adult matric ball in Manenberg, Cape Town, featuring a woman aged plus or minus 56 who achieved high marks. Inspired by her story, the couple decided to seek similar opportunities closer to home. The post led them to the Hopeful Leaders Night School, an organization dedicated to providing evening classes for adults aiming to complete their Grade 12 qualifications. The initiative has gained traction across the Cape Flats, with numerous success stories shared online. After discovering registration dates for classes in Klipspruit, Gauteng, the couple felt a sense of divine guidance and promptly enrolled. Their experience included attending classes with physical instructors, participating in WhatsApp study groups, and forming a supportive network of fellow learners. As parents of two and grandparents to two, the couple approached their studies with a strong sense of purpose. Despite having held influential positions in the corporate sector, they recognized the importance of possessing a matric certificate in professional circles. However, their motivation went beyond career aspirations. They emphasized that completing their education was deeply personal. By setting an example for their children and the youth in their community, they aimed to reinforce the value of education and self-worth. Additionally, they sought to create a lasting legacy for their grandchildren, demonstrating that age should never limit one's potential. The process of revisiting academic life proved both challenging and rewarding. The couple admitted that returning to studies after such a long period was overwhelming. They described the initial stages as entirely unfamiliar, noting that stepping back into a learning environment forced them out of their comfort zones. As the oldest students in their class, they found humor in their situation while acknowledging the richness of the experience. Balancing their studies with daily responsibilities added another layer of difficulty. Caring for Edmund’s 90-year-old mother at home required careful time management, and the couple had to divide their attention among household duties, family care, and rigorous coursework. In a lighthearted moment, Edmund mentioned that Catherine had to temporarily pause her favorite Netflix series to accommodate their new routine. Ultimately, the couple credited their faith and the support of their loved ones for making the journey worthwhile. They expressed that the rewards of completing their Grade 12 qualifications far outweighed the sacrifices made. Crossing the finish line together served as a powerful testament to their resilience and determination. Their achievement stands as a beacon of hope for others who may feel it's too late to pursue their educational goals.