‘Creative leaders can bring about the desired change’
SHILLONG: There is a need for bigger investment in basic science, feels former President of India and noted scientist APJ Abdul Kalam who was in the city to deliver a lecture to the students of IIM Shillong.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an IIM session here on Thursday, Kalam admitted that investment in science and technology, particularly in basic science, is barely sufficient. The Missile Man of India is pushing the idea of investing in science and technology in a bigger way.
Reacting to a query about the rapid migration of those from the field of Science and technology to foreign countries, Kalam said that migration cannot be stopped in this global world since “bright people of every country are attracted to bright places”.
Kalam addresses IIM students
“I want to see all of you as the creative leaders to bring about the required change,” said APJ Abdul Kalam while addressing the students of IIM Shillong in the Institute campus.
Kalam was at the Institute to deliver a lecture on the “Dimensions of National Development”. During his session with the students, he talked about the challenges that India and the world are facing at large and emphasized on the role of leadership to tackle these issues and develop possible solutions.
The former President talked about his concept of PURA (Providing Urban Amenities to Rural Areas) which focuses on rural development by providing opportunities through cooperative working of resource and social entrepreneurs which in turn would enable the country to grow by shared efforts and overcome the challenges faced by the society. Kalam charted out the link between creative leadership and economic development even as he emphasized on the importance of the role that change in leadership would play for ensuring the success in future.
Kalam also met the faculty members of IIM Shillong to discuss the role of academicians in promoting creative leadership among the students for the betterment of the society. This is the second time that IIM Shillong has hosted Kalam as a Guest Faculty to deliver a lecture to its students.
