A FORMER wagon driver who became a British citizen in 2006 and has studied at Bradford College has won national recognition for his commitment to learning and acquiring new skills.

Ishenaisu Mark Ntaibu, 45, drove lorries for a living in Zimbabwe before coming to Britain determined to gain qualifications and improve his skills and is now set to study for a degree in automotive engineering.

His learning achievements are being recognised with an Outstanding Individual award as part of Adult Learners’ Week this week..

Ishenaisu has has earned a Level One award in motor vehicle maintenance , a Level Two Diploma in motor vehicle studies and a City & Guilds Level Three award in auto maintenance and repair. he has also gained qualifications in maths, science and English.

He has achieved his qualifications while working from 10pm until 6am and looking after his two children.

He was nominated for the award by Bradford College engineering lecturer Geraldine McCallum, who said: “Over the last two years he has shown his enthusiasm and determination to succeed.

"Ishenaisu has two children and must be a role model to them, showing how determined he is to gain an education and understanding the importance of gaining qualifications.

"He is a born again Christian and has a calming manner that helps other students in class work to their full potential.”

Mr Ntaibu said his college studies and qualifications had given him confidence to go on to pursue his degree in automotive engineering.

He said: “Coming to college has helped me make friends, build relationships and improve my communication skills. I now feel confident to do a degree in automotive engineering , something I never thought I would be capable of.”

Adult Learners’ Week celebrates the transformational power of lifelong learning through a range of activities and events. Run by the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education as part of the Festival of Learning, Adult Learners’ Week, it aims to demonstrate the personal, social and professional benefits of adult learning.

It is funded by a range of backers, including the European Social Fund and the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills.

The theme of this year’s Festival of Learning is #lovetolearn aimed at capturing the fun and rewarding nature of learning a new skill.