ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE • ENDURING LEGACY
Honouring excellence. Inspiring generations.
The Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Meritorious Award honours an extraordinary leader and recognises the highest-performing eligible Indian student across the School of Social and Political Science’s on-campus postgraduate taught programmes.

Annual
Award frequency
£1,000
Prize money
Certificate
Presented at graduation
1,000 words
Recipient reflection
“Celebrating academic achievement while carrying forward Dr Kalam’s belief in education, aspiration and public service.”
ABOUT THE AWARD
A lasting tribute to achievement and possibility
Based in the School of Social and Political Science, the award will recognise the highest-performing eligible Indian student in a given year. The recipient must have been domiciled in India before joining the University and will be confirmed through the School’s academic examination process.
DR KALAM AND EDINBURGH
A friendship remembered through education
Dr APJ Abdul Kalam was a valued friend of the University of Edinburgh. In 2014, he attended the inaugural Edinburgh–India Institute conference and was conferred with an honorary doctorate. His visit left a lasting impression and inspired this award in his memory.
ELIGIBILITY AND SELECTION
Recognising outstanding academic performance
01 • ELIGIBLE STUDY
On-campus postgraduate taught programmes within the School of Social and Political Science.
02 • INDIA DOMICILE
The recipient must have been domiciled in India before joining the University.
03 • HIGHEST PERFORMANCE
The recipient is identified through academic results confirmed via the Board of Examiners.
SUPPORT THE AWARD
Help establish an award that inspires future generations
A committee representing the Indian diaspora is helping raise funds to establish the award. Contributions can be made through the approved external fundraising page.
“It has been a real honour to lead the establishment of the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Meritorious Award.”
Professor George Palattiyil
Committee Chair
