Prof. V. N. Parthiban’s journey began with a modest first degree, where he scored just above the pass mark—his mother’s disappointment igniting a lifelong pursuit of learning. Driven by a promise to make her proud, he embarked on what he calls a “mission to study” and has since secured more than 150 degrees and diplomas across fields like economics, public administration, law, business, and science.  
To fund this extraordinary path, Prof. Parthiban devotes approximately 90 % of his salary to education—spending on university fees, books, exams and related costs. His schedule is equally remarkable: up before dawn to teach multiple classes, then studying late into the night, often progressing seamlessly from lectures to self-study. 
His example challenges conventional ideas about education as a “destination.” For him, it remains a dynamic, lifelong journey. He continues to enrol in new courses and aims to expand his collection of degrees further, not for certificates alone, but to uphold his promise, celebrate knowledge and inspire others to transcend perceived limits.