As a former President of India and an aerospace scientist with honorary doctorates from over 40 universities, Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam will never be forgotten by India and the rest of the world. Fondly referred to as the “People’s President”, APJ Abdul Kalam held high regard for students and loved to interact with them. An inspiration to millions of students, it’s no surprise that his birthday, 15th October, was declared as “World Students’ Day’’ by the United Nations.
From selling newspapers as a kid who supported his family, to becoming the project director of India’s first Satellite Launch Vehicle, and later the President of India, Abdul Kalam’s journey is a mark of determination, grit, and a thirst for knowledge. He spent the majority of his life at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and was irreplaceable in India’s civilian space program and military missile development efforts. His work on the development of ballistic missile and launch vehicle technology earned him the name, “The Missile Man of India”. Also known for his integrity and simple lifestyle, Abdul Kalam strongly believed in nurturing students and igniting their minds by preparing them to work for a developed India. After his term as President, he returned to his civilian life of education, writing, and public service. On 27th July 2015, while giving a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management Shillong, Abdul Kalam collapsed and died due to cardiac arrest.
It is important to uphold his legacy. As parents, it is imperative that we lay the foundation for our kids who wish to follow in his footsteps. Students who show a keen interest in space science should be shown the path to achieve their dream. Keeping up with Abdul Kalam’s dream of nurturing and guiding students, Labrynthe is organizing a 5-week workshop on Astronomy. Participating students will get to explore the field of space science with comprehensive and interactive online sessions. The expert astronomers who facilitate the workshops will also guide students in conducting experiments. Follow Labrynthe on Facebook or Instagram to know more!
