‘A teacher has to create a life long autonomous learner.’ – Abdul Kalam

As I started describing NASA , in line with its initiative to help observe the Bees in the U.S. of A through its online initiative http://honeybeenet.gsfc.nasa.gov/ , I mentioned space-scientists, and the kids in a chorus shouted one name – ‘Abdul Kalam’.

This is not the first time the name has come up in my classes. Sir, if you are seeing this, I am sure you are smiling.

Today is a tribute to a timeless source of energy , learning, and love.

‘Look at the sky. We are not alone. The whole universe is friendly to us and conspires only to give the best to those who dream and work.’ 

What a beautiful connection each of us has with the universe .

And below I share some of his thoughts on teaching .

1) Creativity is the key to success in the future, and primary education is where teachers can bring creativity in children at that level.

2) Excellence is a continuous process and not an accident.

3) One of the very important characteristics of a student is to question. Let the students ask questions.

4) Educationists should build the capacities of the spirit of inquiry, creativity, entrepreneurial and moral leadership among students and become their role model.

5) If a country is to be corruption free and become a nation of beautiful minds, I strongly feel there are three key societal members who can make a difference. They are the father, the mother and the teacher.

6) If you want to shine like a sun, first burn like a sun.

7) You have to dream before your dreams can come true.

8) When we tackle obstacles, we find hidden reserves of courage and resilience we did not know we had. And it is only when we are faced with failure do we realize that these resources were always there within us. We only need to find them and move on with our lives.

9) Don’t take rest after your first victory because if you fail in the second, more lips are waiting to say that your first victory was just luck.

10) Be more dedicated to making solid achievements than in running after swift but synthetic happiness. Without your involvement you can’t succeed. With your involvement you can’t fail.

A guide for life. You continue to inspire these children and me , and you will stay with us forever.  I just want to say , THANK YOU.