Why is World Students' Day Celebrated on Dr APJ Abdul Kalam's Birth Anniversary?

India's 11th President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam | Image Credits: X (Formally Twitter)

World Students' Day is celebrated on October 15 every year in honour of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, India's 11th president and renowned scientist. This day coincides with Dr Kalam’s birth anniversary and commemorates his remarkable contributions to education, science, and his influence on students worldwide.

Dr Kalam, often referred to as the "Missile Man of India" for his role in India's missile and space programmes, spent over 40 years working with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Despite his illustrious scientific career, Dr Kalam is also remembered for his deep connection with students. He believed that the youth held the key to India's future development and spent much of his life interacting with and inspiring them.

One of Dr Kalam’s favourite activities was engaging with children. He travelled across the country, visiting schools, colleges, and universities, answering students’ questions, and motivating them to dream big. These interactions are remembered as some of his most heartwarming moments, and they left a lasting impact on many young minds.

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Later in his life, Dr Kalam devoted himself even more to education. After serving as President, he became a visiting professor at the Indian Institute of Management Shillong, and also taught at several prestigious institutions including Anna University in Tamil Nadu. He also served as chancellor of the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology in Thiruvananthapuram.

Dr Kalam’s commitment to education remained strong until his last moments. On July 27, 2015, at the age of 83, he passed away while delivering a lecture to students at the Indian Institute of Management Shillong. His sudden death was a great loss to the nation, but his legacy lives on through the students he inspired and the values he stood for.

World Students' Day is a fitting tribute to Dr Kalam's life, which was dedicated to nurturing young minds. Through this day, his teachings and vision continue to motivate students to pursue education, work hard, and contribute to society.