The Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) University here celebrated its first convocation in virtual mode on Sunday. Delivering the convocation address, Governor Prof Ganeshi Lal said there is no dearth of talents in tribal communities; what is needed is the right environment, encouragement and timely exposure.
Prof Lal exhorted the graduates to make ‘Vocal for Local’ as their resolution and contribute to the successful making of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ through their participation and endeavours.
“My heart fills with admiration and appreciation for Dr Achyuta Samanta, founder of this university, for building such a unique institution that has drawn global attention. It was the idea of an equitable world that propelled Dr Samanta to a great extent.
What has been achieved with the love, compassion, dedication and determination of one individual is indeed remarkable,” Prof Lal said. He also received Honoris Causa Degree of D.Litt. from the university. The university conferred Honoris Causa Degrees of D.Litt. upon three more eminent personalities, all from Odisha, Girish Chandra Murmu, Comptroller and Auditor General of India; Dr Swarup Ranjan Mishra, Member of Parliament of Kenya and founding chairman, Mediheal Group of Hospitals, Kenya; and Bibhu Mohapatra, fashion and costume designer, New York.
Dr Achyuta Samanta said the KISS has indirectly impacted over a million tribal children and youths, which is in itself a milestone in the history of tribal empowerment. “It's the story of a dream-come-true which took off with 125 students on board in 1992-93 and has today become an inspiring tale of transformation even beyond my imagination.”
Murmu requested Dr Samanta to replicate KISS-like institutions in every nook and corner of the country. KISS Chancellor Satya S Tripathi, Pro-Chancellor Dr Upendra Tripathy, Vice-Chancellor Prof Deepak Kumar Behera, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Prof Pitabasa Sahoo and Registrar Dr Prashanta Ku Routray also spoke on the occasion.