World Students' Day: Kalam's call to dream big and work hard recalled on his birth anniversary

World Students' Day is observed every year on October 15 with respect and enthusiasm across the world. The day is also the birth anniversary of Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, former President of India, noted scientist and known as the "Missile Man". Kalam devoted his whole life to science, education and guiding students.

Even after reaching the highest office of President, he always held on to his true identity as a teacher. That is why his birth anniversary has become a celebration of students' knowledge and the immense potential within them.

The purpose of observing World Students' Day is not merely to get through a formal programme. The real aim is to take the fundamental importance of education to everyone. In today's fast-changing times, students should not be confined to bookish knowledge. It is essential to build in them leadership, a sense of responsibility towards society and a desire to innovate.

Dr Kalam firmly believed that the future of any country is built in its classrooms. Students' positive thinking and habit of asking questions lay the foundation of a prosperous nation tomorrow.

Kalam's journey began in an ordinary family in Rameswaram. From there, through ISRO and DRDO, he reached Rashtrapati Bhavan. This journey is a ray of hope for every student. Even in extremely difficult circumstances, he did not give up his studies. His life, from selling newspapers to heading India's missile programme, proves that with determination and hard work a person can reach any height.

Advising students, Kalam often said, "Dreams are not what you see in sleep; dreams are what do not let you sleep." In his view, the main purpose of education is to preserve human values and bring positive change in society.

He had advised students to adopt four main principles: a great aim, continuous knowledge, hard work and perseverance, the resolve to overcome difficulties.

Today's student is not merely tomorrow's citizen but a change-maker today. The way the new generation is experimenting in technology, research, industry and social service appears to vindicate Dr Kalam's faith. On World Students' Day, schools, colleges and educational institutions hold speech contests, science exhibitions and workshops, which give students' talents a platform.

Finally, the day makes every student aware of the deep strength within. The power to build the nation and make the world more beautiful lies in the hands of the new generation. Carrying forward the legacy of Dr Kalam's ideas and taking the benefit of education to the last person in society would be a true tribute to him.