The 8th Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial Lecture highlights his teachings and achievements
SHILLONG, July 28: Commemorating Dr APJ Abdul Kalam’s death anniversary, the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Shillong honoured the visionary who left an indelible mark on the nation with his commitment to innovation and education. The institute celebrated his profound role as a teacher and organised the 8th Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial Lecture to highlight his teachings and achievements.
The commemorative event began with students and faculty paying floral tributes to Dr. Kalam, recalling his significant association with IIM Shillong. Dr Sanjeev Ningombam, Centre Head of the Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Centre for Policy Research and Analysis, welcomed the attendees and reflected on Dr Kalam’s enduring teaching legacy, emphasising his belief in the transformative power of education.
The “Nurturing Minds” initiative, launched in 2015 soon after Dr Kalam’s demise, was also highlighted. This initiative aims to realize his vision of “Education for All” by establishing strong connections with local schools. It allows IIM Shillong students to directly impact the education of local students, reinforcing Dr Kalam’s educational ideals.
Director of the North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC) Dr SP Agarwal graced the event. An expert in Remote Sensing and GIS applications, Dr Agarwal delivered the 8th Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial Lecture, emphasising the importance of learning from failures and discussing ISRO’s contributions to disaster management, the Moon Mission, and space technology evolution.
His address covered various aspects of space technology, including satellite imaging, socio-economic security, sustainable development, and disaster risk reduction.
Dr Agarwal also highlighted space technology’s role in agriculture, horticulture, geology, mining, infrastructure planning, and ocean and atmospheric studies. The session underscored India’s remarkable achievements in the space sector, inspired by Kalam’s pioneering vision.
An exhibition highlighting India’s space accomplishments, organised in collaboration with NESAC, served as a powerful testament to India’s cosmic journey and a tribute to Dr Kalam, who ignited the nation’s space aspirations.
The lecture concluded with students inspired to transform their dreams into reality, resonating with Dr Kalam’s famous words, “Dreams are not those which come while we are sleeping, but dreams are those when you don’t sleep before fulfilling them.”