BHUBANESWAR, SEP 14
“The country is going through both a challenging and exciting phase. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set the vision of transforming the country into ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047. It is estimated that Bharat will become the 3rd largest economy of the world by 2030,” said Raghubar Das, Governor of Odisha, during his address at the 20th Annual Convocation of KIIT Deemed to be University here on Saturday.
Governor Das highlighted the achievements of KIIT students, noting their excellence in both academics and sports, including participation in the Olympics, which has brought national pride. He praised Dr. Achyuta Samanta for his unparalleled contributions in establishing the institute and using education as a tool for empowerment, integrating underprivileged individuals into mainstream society.
Addressing the graduating students, the Governor emphasized, “Today youth are leading the change in the country. They are playing a leading role in innovation and start-ups. India is among the top three countries of the world in the startup ecosystem. They are making unicorns and providing opportunities to lakhs of people. Our youth are not only shaping their career; they are also shaping the country’s future. Instead of job seekers, they are becoming job givers.”
In her virtual convocation address, Nobel Peace Laureate (2022) Oleksandra Matviichuk commended KIIT’s rapid rise to prominence both in India and internationally. “Achyuta Samanta’s efforts in building institutions and reducing inequalities underscore a simple truth: ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things,” she said.
During the ceremony, KIIT-DU awarded Honoris Causa D.Sc. and D.Litt. degrees to four distinguished individuals. Dr. D. Nageshwar Reddy, Chairman of Asian Institute of Gastroenterology & AIG Hospitals, received the D.Sc. degree. Honoured with D.Litt. degrees were Dr. Chandra Bhanu Satpathy, a renowned writer, spiritual thinker, and humanitarian; Kishor Patil, Co-Founder, MD & CEO of KPIT Technologies Ltd.; and Ashirbad Behera, Honorary Secretary of the Odisha Athletics Association & Football Association of Odisha. They were recognized for their pioneering contributions to health, spirituality, business, and sports, respectively.
Dr. Reddy expressed gratitude, calling KIIT a model for societal contribution. Dr. Satpathy praised Dr. Samanta for inspiring hope in marginalized communities. Patil highlighted India’s potential to become a global leader in technology and research, while Behera dedicated his honour to the sports community.
A total of 7,283 students graduated, including 5,455 with Bachelor’s degrees, 1,597 with Master’s degrees, and 186 with Ph.D. degrees.
Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT & KISS, congratulated the batch of 2024 for their achievements and encouraged them to embrace risk, failure, and learning. “Keep in mind the 3 I’s: Idea, Innovation, and Impact. These will shape your future and the world around you,” he advised.
In his presidential address, Ashok Kumar Parija, Chancellor of KIIT-DU, reflected on the university’s journey from modest beginnings to a leading institution. He attributed this success to Dr. Samanta’s vision and the dedication of the faculty and staff, emphasizing their commitment to holistic education and nurturing student potential.
Prof. Saranjit Singh, Vice Chancellor, highlighted KIIT-DU’s global standing, noting that 20 distinguished individuals from KIIT and its constituent units are featured in Stanford University’s database of the ‘World’s Top 2% Scientists’. Prof. (Dr.) SK Acharya, Pro-Chancellor, also addressed the students.
Medals were awarded to 59 students for outstanding academic performance. The Founder’s Gold Medals were presented to three students for their exceptional all-round and academic achievements. Besides, 26 students received Chancellor’s Gold Medals, and 27 were honoured with Vice Chancellor’s Silver Medals. The Nanibala Memorial Gold Medal, PK Bal Memorial Gold Medal, and PPL Gold Medal were also awarded.
