Lessons Students Can Learn from Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
As many know, October 15th is celebrated as World Students’ Day in memory of the well-revered Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam’s birth anniversary. As a former president, scientist, and educator, Dr. Kalam lived a life through which he taught the best lessons through his own practice. His autobiography ‘Wings of Fire’ provided many such anecdotes wherein Dr. Kalam talked about experiences and people in his life that had a lasting impact on him which continued into the decisions later on in life too.
On this World Students’ Day, let us take a look at some quotes from Dr. Kalam that speak volumes, and what we as students can learn from them.
“Education is the key to unlocking the world, a passport to freedom.”
As an educator himself, Dr. Kalam was a huge advocate of continuously learning and educating oneself. When it came to education and success, he was truly an inspiration to thousands of people. This quote reflects the importance that Dr. Kalam gave to learning, the impact it made and how a good education changed the trajectory of many people’s lives.
Once you seek knowledge, the knowledge will come to you and bit by bit your worldview will expand and change, giving you opportunities like no other. No matter the age, being open to learning new things and changing our opinions and thoughts is what truly lets us progress, was one of Dr. Kalam’s main principle beliefs.
“If you want to shine like a sun, first burn like a sun.”
Nothing can replace hard work in your life, and Dr. Kalam was someone who truly did stand by this. After all he was not called the Missile Man of India for nothing- is it through long hours of work and perseverance that brought him the success for which he is so well known. In order to achieve big things, you must first dream big, which is precisely the meaning this quote carries.
It is essential to set your sights high, no matter which field or which goal you have in mind. In order to order, one must aim for the stars. Setting ambitious goals gives you a clear target and the motivation to keep going, even when challenges arise. Planning, thinking and working- being slow and steady with these steps is key.
“Know that there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle.”
Having gone through many obstacles in life himself, Dr. Kalam has taught us the strength that believing in yourself brings. In order to chase your dreams and do good in life, it is essential to first believe that you can do it. Everyone doubts their abilities at some points in life, so there is no shame in feeling lesser than. What is important in overcoming these fears, relying on friends and family, and realizing your potential as an individual.
Over his four-decade career, Dr. Kalam made remarkable contributions to science and technology and played a key role in advancing India’s missile program. So if you ever feel beaten down by your own doubts and fears in your journey towards success, thinking back on his words of wisdom will do wonders.
“Look at the sky. We are not alone. The whole universe is friendly to us…”
Many times, we get so caught up in our struggles that we forget that we have many people who we can rely on for help. Friends, family and other loved ones are always around to lend a helping hand or just a shoulder to lean on when things get tough. It is up to us individually to reach out for help when we need it, without feeling small.
Dr. Kalam himself reaped the fruits of having the right attitude in life and that success does not come easy. In his autobiography ‘Wings of Fire’, he mentions that “If you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it”. This positive outlook is something that we should all aspire to have and maintain.
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam exemplified how dedication and hard work can lead to remarkable achievements, regardless of one’s background or circumstances. His quotes on education and success continue to inspire generations of students worldwide to stay committed to their goals and never give up in their pursuit of excellence. His words remind us that nothing is impossible if we put our hearts into it. Let’s draw inspiration from the Missile Man’s story and strive for greatness!