A rare and inspiring moment unfolded at the latest IIT Madras convocation, where a mother and son walked onto the stage together to receive their degrees from the same academic programme.

Jigisha Tailor, 45, and her son Aditya Kapadia, 21, made history of sorts by graduating together after completing the prestigious IIT Madras Online BS in Data Science and Applications programme.

The emotional moment became even more special because neither of them had planned to graduate side by side. Their names came together on the convocation stage, creating a memorable milestone for the family.

Mother and Son Become IIT Madras Batchmates

The IIT Madras convocation celebrated graduates from multiple programmes, including students from the institute’s online Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Applications course.

Among the graduates were Jigisha and Aditya — a mother and son who had started their academic journeys separately but eventually became classmates.

Their story reflects how education can break age barriers and allow learners from different generations to pursue their dreams together.

From Engineering Teacher to IIT Madras Student

Jigisha had spent 16 years teaching electronics at an engineering college in Bharuch, Gujarat.

In 2019, she stepped away from her teaching career due to family responsibilities. However, her passion for learning remained alive.

Three years later, inspired by her son, she decided to return to academics and enrolled in IIT Madras’s online data science programme.

For Jigisha, the decision was not only about earning a degree but also about proving that learning has no age limit.

Aditya Started His IIT Journey During the Pandemic

Aditya enrolled in the IIT Madras online BS programme in 2021 at the age of 18, during the Covid-19 pandemic when colleges across India had shifted to online education.

He said the online format gave him an opportunity to pursue his interest in data science and artificial intelligence.

Initially, students pursuing the online programme were also required to remain enrolled in a physical college. Aditya joined a diploma course in Ahmedabad while continuing his IIT Madras studies.

Later, after the IIT Madras Senate recognised the BS degree as equivalent to a regular four-year programme, he continued only with IIT Madras.

Mother and Son Study Partners and Competitors

Jigisha first became interested in the programme after watching her son study subjects such as statistics and computer systems.

Although some concepts were connected to her electronics background, several areas introduced her to completely new fields.

Encouraged repeatedly by Aditya, she finally enrolled towards the end of 2022.

While Aditya managed a heavier academic workload, Jigisha followed a slower pace, taking one or two subjects per semester. She attended live doubt-clearing sessions and received support from classmates through study groups.

The flexibility of the programme helped her balance education with household responsibilities.

A 4:30 AM Study Routine Helped Jigisha Succeed

Jigisha followed a strict daily schedule to manage her studies.

She woke up around 4:30 am and studied until 7 am before beginning household responsibilities. She continued studying again in the afternoon after completing her daily work.

Despite facing questions from relatives about returning to education at her age, Jigisha remained determined.

She said she wanted to do something different and continue learning.

Her family, especially her husband who is also a college professor, supported her throughout the journey.

Academic Competition Strengthened Their Bond

Over time, mother and son became not only classmates but also friendly competitors.

They often compared their grades and motivated each other to perform better.

Aditya helped his mother understand upcoming subjects, viva examinations and online proctored tests, while Jigisha’s dedication inspired him as well.

The competition over grades became a source of motivation rather than pressure.

From IIT Madras Degree to Career Opportunities

Aditya completed his BS degree in 2024. After completing his studies, he joined Syngenta as a data science intern and later received a full-time opportunity.

Jigisha completed her programme around the same time but decided to delay her job search as she wanted to support her younger son, who is currently in Class 12.

She is also considering returning to teaching and may take guest lectures at her husband’s college.

The Convocation Moment They Never Expected

The most memorable part of their journey came during the IIT Madras convocation ceremony.

A classmate who learned about their unique story helped arrange for Jigisha and Aditya to receive their degrees together.

The moment was unexpected. Since BS and diploma students were seated separately, they had not planned to appear on stage together.

Jigisha received her diploma, while Aditya received his BS degree — marking a proud moment for the entire family.

A Story That Proves Learning Has No Age Limit

Aditya said watching his mother return to studies inspired him and strengthened their relationship.

Their journey represents more than an academic achievement. It highlights the power of curiosity, lifelong learning and family encouragement.

At a time when career changes and continuous learning are becoming increasingly important, Jigisha and Aditya’s IIT Madras story sends a powerful message: education is not limited by age, and dreams can be pursued at any stage of life.