“Real education enhances the dignity of a human being and increases his or her self-respect. If only the real sense of education could be realized by each individual and carried forward in every field of human activity, the world will be so much a better place to live in.”

Indian aerospace engineer and science administrator

A. P. J. Abdul Kalam was an Indian aerospace engineer and science administrator who served as president of India from 2002 to 2007. He is remembered for his role in public life and for his work in science and defence technology. In 1997, he received the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour, for his contribution to scientific research and the modernisation of defence technology in India. His public voice often reflected his work in science, service, and national development.