For Catalina Mendoza, age is no barrier to learning. At 91 years old, she has enrolled in school for the very first time, beginning first grade in El Salvador as part of a national education initiative aimed at expanding opportunities for learners of all ages.

Mendoza recently received a tablet and school supplies through a program from El Salvador’s Ministry of Education that provides learning materials and technology to students across the country. In a historic step this year, the initiative has also expanded to include adults studying through flexible education programs, allowing them access to the same resources as traditional students.

What makes Catalina’s story even more special is that she is not studying alone. Her 71-year-old daughter, Teresa Tobar, is also a student at Centro Escolar El Congo in Santa Ana Este, where she is currently completing the eighth grade. The two now attend classes together, sharing notebooks, lessons, and a renewed passion for learning.

During a ceremony where the materials were distributed, Education Minister Karla Trigueros personally recognized Catalina’s inspiring journey.

Their story highlights a powerful message: education has no age limit. For Catalina and Teresa, returning to the classroom is not just about learning — it’s about proving that dreams can begin at any stage of life.

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