A couple from Eldorado Park in Johannesburg has demonstrated that it is never too late to learn by receiving their secondary school certificates this month. Edmund, aged 50, and Katherine Haas, aged 51, put away their school textbooks more than three decades ago when they learned of the pregnancy of their eldest daughter, now 32 years old.
This couple, who resides in the area known as 'Old Eldos,' shared that their journey was full of adventures. Despite their lives being filled with family and love for their community, the couple always had a desire to complete one aspect of their lives.
Adult Education
Katherine and Edmund Haas received their final results on August 7th. Speaking to IOL, they shared that early last year they came across a Facebook post about an adult graduation ceremony held in Mamelodi in Cape Town. Katherine explained: 'A woman around 56 years old passed the exam with two or three distinctions, and that caught our attention. We looked at each other and said we would like to have such a platform to write and retake our certificate, which we did not have.'
This Facebook profile belonged to the Hopeful Leaders Night School, which provides evening education for adults aiming to obtain a secondary school certificate. The organization has expanded across Cape Flats, sharing numerous success stories on all platforms.
The couple reported that after following this Facebook page, they saw an announcement about registration opening in Clipsalput in Gauteng. Katherine said: 'We knew God heard us, and that God guided the person who brought this to Gauteng. We were excited and registered for classes where most subjects had physical teachers, WhatsApp support groups, and formed a family for joint learning.'
As parents of two and grandparents of two, the couple was determined to complete unfinished business. They noted that despite holding leadership positions in the corporate world, having a secondary school certificate had become a standard in the business environment. However, as they emphasized, it was a matter of the heart: 'We invested years of effort into our children and the youth of our community, preaching the value of education and setting a standard for self-esteem. We looked at each other and realized we could not preach what we ourselves had not fully achieved.'
The desire to obtain a secondary school certificate was also motivated by a desire to leave a legacy for their grandchildren. They added: 'Ultimately, we wanted to leave a legacy for our dear grandchildren to show them personally that no matter what life throws your way or how much time passes, you can achieve anything if you put your heart, faith, and hard work into it.'
What Was It Like?
Although studying is not an easy task, undertaking it after many decades might have seemed even more difficult. When asked what it was like to pick up books again after so many years, the couple replied: 'Wow, what a whirlwind! At first, it felt completely foreign. Returning to the academic environment definitely took us out of our comfort zone, and the fact that we were the oldest people in the class made us laugh, but it turned into such an enriching adventure.'
Despite taking on this challenge, daily life continued, and responsibilities did not decrease. The most challenging aspect for the couple proved to be balancing life and study. Katherine explained: 'It was a delicate balance. We have the joy and duty of caring for Edmund's 90-year-old mother at home, so dividing our responsibilities and time between her care, running the household, family love, and keeping up with the pace of demanding studies was tough.'
Edmund joked: 'And in a lighter tone, Katherine had to sacrifice her favorite Netflix series.'
The Reward Was Sweeter Than the Sacrifice
The Haas couple stated that it was their faith and support system that made the journey worthwhile. They said: 'Understanding that the reward is much sweeter than any sacrifice we had to make along the way. Overcoming this finish line together proved that through God's unwavering grace, we can conquer any mountain as a team.'
According to the couple, their biggest motivation was their closest loved ones. They told IOL: 'Undoubtedly, our incredible family. Our children, Tony, Sasha, Tyrik, and Noah, were our absolute cheerleaders, surrounding us with daily support. We were also surrounded by the love of our mother Cynthia, sisters Sam and Deliza, and brothers Gerard and Keenan, who supported our spirit with constant calls and encouraging messages.'
The couple also had the honor of attending their own graduation ball. They shared: 'We always laugh and joke that we are now officially school sweethearts. We have been together for almost 34 years, going through ups, downs, beautiful moments, and tough seasons. Throughout all of this, God has been the central thread of three fibers holding our marriage firmly and unshakably. Going through this academic journey side by side has only deepened our love and appreciation for each other.'
The couple informed IOL that they put forth their best effort for the final exams and wrote their last exam on June 22, 2026. They officially received the results on August 7th. Katherine proudly stated: 'My husband passed at the bachelor level, and I passed at the diploma level.'
The Haases told IOL that they are now ready for the next stage. 'We are ready for the next chapter! We will be sending out our resumes and returning to the corporate world with renewed energy. We have so much passion, experience, and value left to give.'
For those striving to undertake this academic journey, the Haases advise: 'Do it with all your heart! The feeling of pride, dignity, and personal satisfaction when you cross that finish line is priceless. It ignites a flame of self-esteem within you that no one can ever take away.'