In a heartwarming moment that celebrated lifelong learning, a 45-year-old mother and her 21-year-old son graduated together from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, sharing the convocation stage after completing the institute's online Data Science programme. The unique achievement has captured widespread attention, highlighting the growing popularity and flexibility of online higher education.

The memorable moment unfolded during the IIT Madras Convocation 2026, where Jigisha Tailor and her son Aditya Kapadia received their degrees from the institute's BS in Data Science and Applications programme. Although they had enrolled at different times and had not planned to graduate together, the ceremony turned into a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the family.

Jigisha, who taught electronics at an engineering college in Bharuch, Gujarat, for 16 years, left her teaching career in 2019 to focus on family responsibilities. Inspired by her son's enthusiasm for data science, she returned to academics in 2022 after Aditya encouraged her to enrol in IIT Madras' online programme.

Aditya had joined the programme in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic, choosing the online degree because of his interest in data science and artificial intelligence. Initially pursuing a diploma course in Ahmedabad alongside the IIT Madras programme, he later switched entirely to the BS degree after it was recognised by the IIT Madras Senate as equivalent to a regular four-year undergraduate programme.

Balancing household responsibilities with academics, Jigisha followed a disciplined schedule, studying from 4:30 am to 7 am before beginning her daily chores and resuming her studies later in the afternoon. She also participated in live doubt-clearing sessions and collaborated with classmates through online study groups.

The mother-son duo soon became study partners—and friendly competitors. According to Aditya, they constantly motivated each other to earn higher grades, with each striving to secure the programme's coveted 'S' grade, awarded to top-performing students.

After completing his BS degree, Aditya joined Syngenta as a data science intern and was later offered a full-time position. Jigisha, meanwhile, has chosen to postpone her job search to support her younger son, who is preparing for his Class 12 examinations, while also considering a return to teaching through guest lectures.

The highlight of their academic journey came at the convocation ceremony, where a fellow student helped arrange for the pair to receive their degrees together despite being seated in different sections. Jigisha received her diploma while Aditya was awarded his BS degree, creating an emotional and unforgettable moment.

Their inspiring story underscores that learning has no age limit and reflects how flexible online education can empower learners at every stage of life. It also highlights IIT Madras' innovative approach to expanding access to quality higher education through its online programmes.