Suparjya Swain 
BHUBANESWAR: Dr. Achyuta Nanda Samanta stands as a towering figure in education, philanthropy, and public service. Known for his profound leadership, visionary educational reforms, and heartfelt societal contributions, Samanta has transformed countless lives. His remarkable journey from humble beginnings to global recognition is a testament to his unwavering commitment to uplift the marginalized and foster a more equitable society.
Born on January 20, 1965, in the modest village of Kalarabanka in Odisha’s Cuttack District, Samanta’s early life was marked by profound hardship. Orphaned at just four years old, he was raised by his widowed mother alongside seven siblings in severe poverty. These challenges could have deterred a lesser individual, but they only fueled Samanta’s resolve to rise above adversity.
Samanta’s academic journey began in humble surroundings, yet his determination and passion for learning propelled him to earn a Master’s degree in Chemistry from Utkal University. He started his career as a Chemistry lecturer in Bhubaneswar, but his vision extended far beyond the classroom. Driven by a deep-seated desire to make a lasting impact on society, Samanta envisioned an educational revolution to provide opportunities for those marginalized by society, particularly tribal communities in Odisha.
In 1992, with little more than passion and a clear vision, Samanta founded the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT). What started as a small vocational training center has blossomed into KIIT University, a leading educational institution offering a wide range of programs to students from around the globe. Today, KIIT stands as a beacon of excellence in education, fostering innovation, research, and holistic development.
However, Samanta’s true legacy lies in the establishment of the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), a groundbreaking initiative providing free education, accommodation, and food to over 30,000 indigenous children. KISS is the world’s largest residential institution for tribal students, offering not just education but also hope, dignity, and a pathway out of poverty. Through KISS, Samanta has created a model of inclusive education that empowers marginalized communities and transforms lives on a massive scale.
Samanta’s contributions extend beyond education. He is a multifaceted leader whose impact resonates across tribal upliftment, healthcare, rural development, art, culture, literature, and media. He founded Kadambini Magazine, a prominent literary journal promoting Odia literature, and Kuni Katha, a unique publication dedicated to children’s literature. In the media sphere, he established Kalinga TV and K News Odisha, furthering his commitment to cultural and social awareness.
Samanta’s work has earned recognition beyond Indian borders. He has received over 50 international and national awards, including the ISA Award for Service to Humanity from the Royal Kingdom of Bahrain and the Best Worker Award from Mongolia, recognizing his unparalleled societal contributions. His global standing is further underscored by the 58 honorary doctorates he has received from universities worldwide. His most recent recognition came from Japan’s esteemed Koyasan University, which conferred upon him an honorary doctorate in July 2024, making him only the second Indian to receive this honor after Devendra Fadnavis, the former Chief Minister of Maharashtra.
In his acceptance speech at Koyasan University, Samanta humbly acknowledged the university’s rich history of over 100 years and expressed deep gratitude for the recognition of his efforts in education and social service. The conferment of this doctorate, he remarked, was not just a personal honor but a reflection of the transformative power of education. Samanta’s influence also extends into sports and politics; he serves as the President of the Volleyball Federation of India and is a member of the Indian Olympic Association, roles that align with his belief in the holistic development of individuals.
