The Hindu : Karnataka / Bangalore News : Abdul Kalam stresses on selflessness among youth

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Sunday, Dec 14, 2008
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Karnataka

Karnataka - Bangalore

Abdul Kalam stresses on selflessness among youth

Staff Reporter

Highlights importance of education in building the nation

Former President speaks of the success of
moon mission
Retired principals of St. Joseph’s Boys School honoured

— Photo: Bhagya Prakash K.

Igniting minds: Former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam with a child at the 150th anniversary celebrations of St. Joseph’s Boys School in Bangalore on Saturday.

BANGALORE: Former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam wound up the sesquicentennial celebrations of St. Joseph’s Boys School with words of inspiration to students.

Speaking to students, teachers, parents and alumni of the school, Dr. Kalam stressed on the need for social awareness and selflessness amongst youth.

Dr. Kalam spoke of the importance of education in building a nation.

Himself an alumnus of a Jesuit institution, the former President highlighted the importance of righteousness, creativity, courage and knowledge to achieve success.

Dr. Kalam stressed on the need for the youth to be socially and politically conscious in building a strong nation and a strong world. This, he said, was of utmost importance in creating an equitable and socially just society. He drew the attention of the audience to the 220 million people in India who live below the poverty line.

He spoke on the importance of space science and its implications for the future. Cherishing India’s success in sending a space shuttle to the moon, he shed light on the importance of the mission. He gave some personal insights into the importance of aiming high, for students who aspire to be scientists.

Dr. Kalam honoured four retired principals of the school — Rev. Father Hilary Pereira (1964-68), Rev. Fr. Claude D’Souza (1968 -70), Rev. Fr. Dennis Coelho (1983-93) and Rev. Fr. Michael John (1993-2006).

Two other retired principals — Rev. Fr. F. Shenoy and Rev. Fr. Godwin Serrao — could not make it to the function.

Students of the school enthralled the enthusiastic audience with a fusion of song and dance performances revolving around the theme of the sesquicentennial celebrations.

Principal of the school Reverend Father Celestine Sera and Rector of St. Joseph’s Institutions Rev. Fr. Terrence Farias were present.

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