Farewell former Indian President Dr Abdul Kalam
Vice-Chancellor and Principal Dr Michael Spence paid tribute to former Indian President Dr Abdul Kalam who passed away on 27 July 2015, aged 83.
Dr Abdul Kalam was awarded an honorary degree from the University of Sydney for his contribution to society during his time as President of India from 2002 to 2007 and as one of India’s most eminent scientists.
“Dr Kalam was a man of the people whose contribution to Indian society started long before his time as President and continued until his last day,” said Dr Spence.
“As an engineer he made contributions to a wide variety of areas from space exploration by creating India’s first indigenous Satellite Launch Vehicle to improving heart surgery with the development of a cardiac stent.
“His legacy is the kind of leadership we hope our students are inspired by: one of service and commitment to making a difference in the world.”
“Through his work, teaching and many speeches, Dr Kalam played an influential role in encouraging young people to take up careers in science and technology. In the past decade alone, he reached out to more than five million young people and inspired them to become active participants in developing India.
“His legacy is the kind of leadership we hope our students are inspired by: one of service and commitment to making a difference in the world.”
Dr Kalam established the Dr Abdul Kalam International Scholarships, merit-based scholarships for international students commencing a degree at the University of Sydney's Faculty of Engineering and Information Technologies.
Dr Abdul Kalam receiving his honorary degree at the University of Sydney in 2011.