World Students Day 2026: Key Facts, Background, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam and his contributions

Why in news?

World Students’ Day is observed on 15 October, commemorating the birth anniversary of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, former President of India.

Key Facts

Background 

• World Students’ Day is associated with Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam's dedication to education and his belief that students are central to national development.
• Dr. Kalam consistently encouraged young people to develop scientific curiosity, pursue ambitious goals and contribute to society through knowledge and innovation.
• Even after serving as President of India, he continued interacting with students at schools, colleges and universities.
• His commitment to teaching remained evident until his death on 27 July 2015, when he collapsed while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management Shillong.

About Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam

• Full name: Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam.
• Born on 15 October 1931 in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu.
• Studied physics at St. Joseph's College, Tiruchirappalli, and aerospace engineering at Madras Institute of Technology.
• Worked with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
• Served as the 11th President of India from 25 July 2002 to 25 July 2007.
• Popularly known as the People's President for his accessibility and engagement with young citizens.

Major Contributions of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam

• Indian Space Programme: Dr. Kalam served as Project Director of India's first indigenous Satellite Launch Vehicle, SLV-3. In July 1980, SLV-3 successfully placed the Rohini RS-1 satellite into orbit, marking an important milestone in India's indigenous space-launch capabilities.
• Missile Development Programme: He played a leading role in the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP), launched in 1983. The programme included the development of missile systems such as Prithvi, Agni, Akash, Trishul and Nag.
• India's Strategic Capabilities: Dr. Kalam played an important scientific and organisational role in India's 1998 Pokhran-II nuclear tests, alongside other scientists and institutions.
• Education and Youth Development: He promoted scientific education, creativity, entrepreneurship and innovation, emphasising the role of young people in building a developed India.

Major Awards and Honours

Important Books Written by Dr. Kalam

• Wings of Fire: Autobiography co-authored with Arun Tiwari.
• Ignited Minds: Focuses on unlocking India's potential through youth and ideas.
• India 2020: Presents a vision for India's development, co-authored with Y. S. Rajan.
• My Journey: Recollections and experiences from his life.

Significance of World Students’ Day

• Education for All: Highlights the importance of equitable access to quality education.
• Scientific Temper: Encourages students to develop curiosity, critical thinking and evidence-based reasoning.
• Youth Empowerment: Recognises young people as important contributors to national development.
• Innovation and Research: Promotes creativity, technological advancement and problem-solving.
• Nation Building: Encourages students to apply knowledge and skills to address social and economic challenges.

Challenges in Student Development

• Unequal access to quality education, particularly in rural and disadvantaged areas.
• Digital divide and limited access to educational technology.
• Skill gaps between academic education and employment requirements.
• Examination pressure and student mental health concerns.
• Limited access to research facilities and practical learning opportunities.

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