Published 08:40 IST, October 15th 2019
APJ Abdul Kalam birth anniversary: Remembering his work on education
On the occasion of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam's 88th birth anniversary, it is fitting to remember his contribution to education, including his focus on rural India.
Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, the 11th President of India is fondly remembered for his contribution to public life. While his work as a nuclear scientist is extremely well known, education formed a very important part of his life. In fact, he always used to say that he would like to be remembered as a teacher. He not only taught at multiple universities even after completing his tenure as President, but his last act also was to deliver a lecture at the IIM Shillong. On the occasion of his 88th birth anniversary, it is fitting to remember his contribution to education.
'Dream project of former President Kalam'
After assuming the office of President, he grabbed every possible opportunity to teach students wherever he went. He also authored several books, which contained his thoughts on empowering the youth of the country. According to scientist V Ponraj who worked with him since 1995, Dr Kalam would also impart his knowledge to fellow scientists. Rural India formed an important component of his vision. On Dr Kalam’s suggestion, Manasi Bihari Verma, his former colleague in the Aeronautical Development Agency launched the ‘Mobile Science Laboratory’(MSL) project in 2010. It aimed to teach science to children in rural areas. Three vans equipped with physics, chemistry, and life science laboratories are operational in rural areas of Bihar under this project. According to Verma, this was Dr Kalam’s dream project and he would regularly give his suggestions in this regard.
Verma said, “It was a dream project of former President Kalam and he regularly used to enquire about its functioning in rural areas of Bihar. Through these science vans, we’ll try to spread his message far and wide to realise his dream that every child should have knowledge in science.”
Global outreach
Moreover, Dr Kalam cared for education not just in India, but all over the world. Inspired by his call to create educational opportunities for the underprivileged in Singapore, the Global Indian Foundation based in that country started multiple initiatives to help poor Singaporean students. Subsequently, it also started Mahatma Gandhi Global Indian Eklavya School in a tribal area of Gujarat. Over the years, it has become a role model for tribal schools in India with 100% pass results in the 12th board examination apart from producing national champions in archery.
Thoughts on education
The former President also had a dynamic view of education. For instance, speaking at the 54th Foundation day of IIT Bombay, he remarked, "In the present context, the education system has to be designed in a way that produces a large number of employment generators and not just employment seekers." He also stressed on the need for school students to learn specific skills apart from appearing for the board examination.
At an event in the national capital, few months before his death, he opined, "When the students pass out of senior secondary schools, they should have two certificates - of passing 10+2 examination and of a specific skill acquired by him during schooling."
Updated 09:05 IST, October 15th 2019