Suparjya Swain 
BHUBANESWAR: Alexzandar Das, a name synonymous with transformative leadership in education and social entrepreneurship, embodies the spirit of visionary change and community service. His journey from a lower-middle-class upbringing to becoming a pioneering educationalist and entrepreneur reflects his unwavering commitment to societal betterment.
Roots of Inspiration
Born into a family where education was held in high regard, Alexzandar’s early life was profoundly influenced by his father, the late Satyananda Das. A dedicated primary school teacher and eminent educationist, his father’s belief in “education for all” laid the foundation for Alexzandar’s own educational and social pursuits. Inspired by his father’s commitment and driven by his own financial struggles, Alexzandar embarked on a mission to democratize education and empower the underprivileged.
A Passion for Learning and Growth
Alexzandar’s educational journey is as impressive as his professional achievements. With degrees in M.Tech in Electronics and Communication Engineering, Journalism and Mass Communication, Law (LLM), and a PGDM (HR) from XIMB, he is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Journalism at Utkal University. This extensive academic background equips him with a diverse skill set, positioning him to address societal challenges from various perspectives.
Forging a Path in Education and Entrepreneurship
As the Chairman of Siksha Trust and the Kalinga Group of Institutions, Alexzandar has been a beacon of educational reform. His leadership has seen the establishment of institutions such as Kalinga Nagar Polytechnic, St. Xavier International School, and Kalinga Higher Secondary School. His mission is to make high-quality education accessible to all. Through initiatives like the Satyananda Scholarship Test (SST), he provides financial support to deserving students.
A significant addition to his vision is the Kalinga Academy of Civil Services, which provides Delhi-level preparation resources for rural students aspiring to civil services but unable to afford urban facilities. This initiative addresses the critical gap in rural education and professional opportunities.
In the realm of entrepreneurship, Alexzandar’s contributions are equally noteworthy. Under his guidance, Siksha Trust has implemented skill development clusters, such as the Soro Stone Cluster and Haripur Royal Dress Cluster, aimed at enhancing local artisan skills. His involvement with Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojna (PMKVY) under UDYAMITA demonstrates his dedication to fostering entrepreneurship among youth.
Furthermore, Alexzandar pioneered the Kalinga FabLab, Odisha’s first rural innovation lab, to promote innovation and entrepreneurship among rural students. This lab is a cornerstone of his mission to cultivate creativity and technological advancement in rural areas.
A Commitment to Social Activism
Alexzandar’s activism is deeply intertwined with his professional life. Through his social wing, the Aryalex Foundation for Social Activities (AFSA), he has been involved in disaster relief, health camps, and educational support for orphaned and impoverished families. His proactive responses during crises, such as the Coromandel Express train tragedy, further highlight his commitment to community service, as he extends educational support to affected children.
In addition, he has launched the Greenvocate Initiative and Greendependent Campaign to promote sustainability. These initiatives advocate for environmental conservation and responsible living, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.
Publications and Media Engagement
As a writer and editor, Alexzandar has addressed various social issues in more than 250 articles in the Jajpur Express, newsletters, and booklets. His media presence in both print and electronic platforms emphasizes his commitment to raising awareness and fostering conversations around pressing societal challenges.
Awards and Recognition
Alexzandar’s contributions have been widely recognized. He has received several awards, including the Best Youth Entrepreneur Award in Bangkok and the Shilpi Sahoyogi Samman for his role in cluster development. These accolades acknowledge his substantial impact on education, entrepreneurship, and social welfare.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Alexzandar envisions expanding his social service efforts. He is planning to establish both a Spiritual Centre and an Institution for Sustainability. His vision is to create spaces where individuals, particularly youth, can cultivate self-awareness and inner strength. By focusing on both educational and spiritual development, Alexzandar hopes to foster a more compassionate and resilient society.
