At 93 years old, Paraguayan educator Lilia Piatti reached a milestone she had spent years pursuing: a doctorate in Education. Piatti defended her thesis at the National Institute of Higher Education (Instituto Nacional de Educación Superior, or INAES) in Asunción. Her journey, however, was about more than earning another academic title. After personal loss and technological challenges, Piatti turned both experiences into motivation to keep learning.
From experience to research
Piatti focused her doctoral research on adult learning and digital technology. Specifically, her thesis examined the impact of the digital divide on adult university students using video platforms. The subject became personal during the COVID-19 pandemic, when Piatti encountered difficulties with new technologies. Consequently, her own experience inspired academic questions about technology and adult education.
During the pandemic, Lilia Piatti took language courses as a way to stay mentally active. However, adapting to digital tools presented challenges during her studies. That experience later became the foundation for her doctoral research. Her work therefore explores difficulties that can emerge when technology becomes central to learning.
Continuing her education
Piatti reached the doctoral degree after completing a master’s degree in Scientific Research Methodology. She completed that programme in 2023, when she was 90 years old. Moreover, her academic journey continued despite personal loss during the doctoral process. Her daughter, Marta Beatriz Vázquez Piatti, died on 26 September 2025.
The loss deeply affected Lilia Piatti, who paused her doctoral research for four months. Nevertheless, support from her tutors at INAES helped her return to the project. She eventually resumed her research and completed the work required for her defence, describing the process as a meaningful academic and personal journey.
Back where her career began
Piatti’s connection with INAES also gives her latest achievement special significance. She began her teaching career there on 2 January 1975. Decades later, she returned to the institution to complete the highest level of her academic training. As a result, the doctorate represents both a new achievement and the closing of a professional circle.
Beyond her doctorate, Piatti plans to continue studying through short academic programmes. She remains interested in current developments in education and wants to explore artificial intelligence. She also hopes to understand how artificial intelligence can support learning. For Piatti, continuing to learn remains part of her purpose.
Learning beyond age
Piatti has spent decades teaching, writing books and training educators in Paraguay. She also hopes to continue sharing her knowledge with colleagues, students and relatives. Her academic journey now offers another example of lifelong learning. At 93, she has shown that education can continue through every stage of life.
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