52-Year-Old Ranchi Woman Completes PhD While Managing Job And Raising Three Children | Education and Career News
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Onima Tigga said she would return home in the evening, attend to household responsibilities and prepare meals before sitting down to study late at night.
Onima Tigga said she studied from 11 pm to 2 am for nearly three years to complete her doctorate. (Image: Local18)
Onima Tigga, a resident of Ranchi, Jharkhand, has completed her PhD from Birla Institute of Technology (BIT), Mesra, while balancing her professional responsibilities, household duties and the upbringing of her three children. Her journey highlights how determination and family support can help people pursue their educational goals at different stages of life.
Speaking to Local 18, Onima shared how she managed to make time for research despite her busy schedule. The 52-year-old works as a computer science faculty member at BIT Mesra’s Lalpur Extension Centre in Ranchi, where a PhD is a requirement for her role.
Tigga said she would return home in the evening, attend to household responsibilities and prepare meals before sitting down to study late at night. She often studied from 11 pm to 2 am, following this routine for nearly three years to complete her doctorate.
She has three children, all of whom are pursuing their education. One studies at the National Institute of Technology (NIT), while the other two are also studying.
Tigga said managing her studies was more difficult when her children were younger, as they needed considerable care and attention. As they grew older, she was able to devote more time to her academic work.
With her professional responsibilities and household chores taking up much of the day, she developed a fixed study schedule to stay on track with her research.
Tigga said her husband and family played an important role in helping her complete her PhD. Her husband would often stay awake with her while she studied late into the night. She credited their support and her own discipline for helping her balance work, family life and research over the three-year period.
Sharing her message for others who wish to continue their education, Tigga said that age should not be a barrier to learning. With a clear goal, consistent effort and the right support, she believes people can pursue their academic ambitions even while managing other responsibilities.
Her journey serves as a reminder that pursuing higher education need not stop because of age, work or family commitments.
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Ask News18Onima Tigga worked as a computer science faculty member and balanced household duties before studying late at night from 11 pm to 2 am, maintaining this rigorous routine for nearly three years.
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October 15, 2026, 12:29 IST
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