“Books become permanent companions. Sometimes, they are born before us; they guide us during our life journey and continue for many generations.” - A.P.J Abdul Kalam
A school is where most of a child's childhood is spent; the benches, blackboards, classrooms, teachers, and classmates bring back fond memories of childhood. Through remembering all of these memories, each gains insightful knowledge, develops into a positive role model for society, and progresses down the road of unbounded aspiration.
A unique occasion, World Student's Day on October 15 celebrates students and their contributions to society. This day serves as a reminder of the value of education and students' crucial role in influencing the future. It is observed on the birthday of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, a renowned scientist and a figure of inspiration for students worldwide. The United Nations(UN) in 2010 declared 15th October as the “World Students Day’’ or “International Students Day”. The Bharat Ratna recipient was also popular for his role as a teacher, he continued teaching till his last breath.
On October 15, 1931, Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam was born in the Indian pilgrimage centre of Rameswaram, on Pamban Island, to a Tamil Muslim family. He obtained his degree in physics from Saint Joseph's College in Tiruchirappalli. Upon completing his studies in aeronautical engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology, he became a member of the Defence Research and Development Organization's Aeronautical Development Establishment. He had a successful and distinguished scientific career, rising to prominence in the 1990s as India's most well-known nuclear physicist. On July 18, 2002, Kalam was sworn in as the 11th president of the Indian Republic. He served as the “People’s President” for five years and was adored throughout that time. Following his presidency, he gave lectures at several universities.
He firmly thought that a nation's children were its greatest resource. He was a person who always inspired students to get the greatest education they could. Here are the five major contributions that Shri APJ Abdul Kalam made to the world of education: Education for all, Mobilizing Resources, Promoting rural education, Opening new paths to travel and constant encouragement.
Apart of all these, as individuals one should explore the significance of this day and reflect on the potential impact students can have on the world:
- Empowering the future leaders: On World Student Day, we recognise that every student can grow into a future leader. To fully realise this potential and provide students with the tools they need to change the world, education is essential. Students who receive a top-notch education and are encouraged to be creative are better prepared to tackle global issues and effect constructive change.
- Advancing Technology and Innovation: Students are vital to the continuously changing world of innovation and technology. Their capacity to adapt, inquire, and have new viewpoints allows them to come up with creative solutions for urgent global problems like poverty, healthcare, and climate change, among others. It's a day to honour and motivate these creative brains to push the envelope of what's conceivable.
- Encouraging civic engagement and social responsibility: Students are urged to take part in civic duties and exhibit social responsibility in addition to their academic pursuits. This day highlights the value of giving back to society and improving the lives of others by encouraging students to engage in community service, advocacy, and volunteering.
Child Help Foundation along with Filaantro, assist underprivileged children with Quality Education, good Infrastructure, regular and delicate care to the students with the help of well experienced teachers. The students are provided with the necessary amenities. Even scholarships are provided to the disadvantaged students. The organization is grateful to help 4,82,051 disadvantaged children in pursuing their education and aim higher to fulfill their dreams.
On World Students Day, we celebrate the power and ability that students have to influence the course of history. In keeping with the memory of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and his commitment to learning and creativity, let's help and motivate students as they seek knowledge, creativity, and social responsibility. Building a more sustainable and optimistic future together will benefit everyone.