Is inspirational Alfie Britain’s oldest student at 90?

Is inspirational Alfie Britain’s oldest student at 90?

A stalwart of the student scene at the University of Aberdeen celebrated his 90th birthday this week.

Alfred Alexander's fellow students presented the nonagenarian with an engraved tankard to mark his milestone  in a surprise gathering in The Hub.

'Alfie', as he is known around campus, has already notched up two degrees – an MA in 1996 and BSc in 2001 – during his time at Aberdeen and is now studying for a third.

Thought to be one of Britain's oldest students, Alfie remains a keen student rights campaigner and is currently a member of the University's Business Committee and the Students' Association.

He entered the University before World War II, but left to fight and did not return to King's College campus until the 1990s.  He is currently studying for an MA in Sociology.

Born on 11 February 1918, Alfie has previously described his philosophy in life as "think young, act young and mix with young people and you will never feel old".

As a member of the Students' Association he has fought for six years to get lighting in Cruickshank Gardens, so that they could be made safer after dark. He has also campaigned tirelessly for a clock in The Hub.

Angela Fraser, Students' Association President said: "Alfie is an inspiration to us all. The work he has done to improve the student experience for all at the University of Aberdeen is fantastic.

"The fact that he is still fighting hard to improve things at the age of 90 is a triumph. We wish him all the very best and hope that he will be a dedicated member of Aberdeen University Students' Association for many years to come."

Rachel Sandison, Head of Student Recruitment and Admissions, said Alfie was a great example of the University's diverse student community.

She added: "His desire to further his own knowledge while continually striving to improve the lot of others less than a quarter of his age is wonderful to see. We're proud to call Alfie a student at the University of Aberdeen and look forward to the day when he graduates for a third time!"

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