Every year on October 15, World Students’ Day is celebrated globally in honour of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, the 11th President of India, renowned scientist, and dedicated teacher. This day not only commemorates Dr. Kalam’s birthday but also symbolizes his unwavering belief in the power of education, science, and the potential of the younger generation to shape a better future.
The United Nations declared October 15 as World Students’ Day to acknowledge Dr. Kalam’s immense contribution to education and his lifelong dedication to students. Often referred to as the “People’s President,” Dr. Kalam’s legacy transcends his role in politics. His passion for teaching and connecting with students made him a beloved figure in India and internationally. He often said, “To succeed in life and achieve results, you must understand and master three mighty forces—desire, belief, and expectation,” emphasizing the importance of inner strength and determination.
Born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam came from humble beginnings. Despite having average grades in school, his determination to learn, especially in the fields of mathematics and science, was unparalleled. This passion led him to a distinguished career in aerospace engineering, where he played a pivotal role in India’s space and missile programs. His work with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Bharat Ratna in 1997, India’s highest civilian honour.
Beyond his scientific achievements, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam’s heart lay with students. He strongly believed in the power of youth to transform society and was always eager to engage with them, be it through lectures or casual conversations. He considered teaching to be a noble profession and often remarked that his greatest happiness came from interacting with students. Even in his final moments, he was delivering a speech at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Shillong, when he suffered a cardiac arrest and passed away in 2015.
World Students’ Day serves as a reminder of Dr. Kalam’s enduring legacy and his message of hope, perseverance, and the power of education. It encourages students worldwide to dream big, work hard, and contribute to building a better world, just as Dr. Kalam envisioned.
