Interview Times 
FEATURE: Dr. Achyuta Nanda Samanta’s journey is a remarkable testament to resilience and vision, beginning in the humble village of Kalarabanka in Odisha and extending across the globe. Overcoming immense adversity, he has not only transformed his own life but has also changed the destinies of thousands within India’s marginalised communities. An orphaned child with dreams shaped by hardship, Samanta envisioned an India where every child, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive. As the founder of KIIT and KISS, he has revolutionised education, empowered tribal youth, and ignited significant societal change. Today, Samanta stands as a beacon of progress, equality, and hope.
Born on January 20, 1965, in Kalarabanka, Samanta faced unimaginable challenges from a young age. Orphaned at four, he was raised in poverty by his widowed mother alongside his seven siblings. While many might have succumbed to despair, Samanta drew strength from his belief that education could transform lives. His journey began modestly, but his unwavering determination led him to earn a Master’s degree in Chemistry from Utkal University. Starting as a Chemistry lecturer, he nurtured a vision that extended far beyond the classroom—one focused on uplifting those who lacked opportunities, especially within Odisha’s tribal communities.
In 1992, driven by passion and a clear vision, he established the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT). What began as a small vocational training center has evolved into KIIT University, now recognized among India’s leading educational institutions. Today, KIIT stands as a symbol of educational excellence, drawing students from around the globe. This transformation from a modest training center to a prominent global university exemplifies Samanta’s belief that knowledge should be accessible to all.
Dr. Samanta’s most notable achievement is the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), the world’s largest residential educational institution dedicated to tribal children. Serving over 30,000 students, KISS offers free education, housing, and meals, empowering children to rise out of poverty and build dignified, meaningful lives. Through KISS, Samanta has not only changed individual lives but has also established a sustainable model of empowerment that is being replicated worldwide.
Recently, Samanta expanded his vision for social impact by founding the KIIT School of Public Policy, inaugurated in October 2024 by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. In collaboration with the Indian Council of World Affairs and the United Nations System Staff College, this school aims to nurture leaders committed to inclusive governance, social justice, and sustainable development. This initiative marks a new chapter for KIIT as it continues to innovate and respond to the evolving needs of society.
Beyond education, Samanta’s influence extends into healthcare, rural development, culture, and media. Through the Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), he has enhanced healthcare services in Odisha. A passionate advocate for Odia culture, he founded Kadambini Magazine and Kuni Katha, promoting regional literature and children’s stories. His media ventures, including Kalinga TV and K News Odisha, further demonstrate his commitment to cultural preservation and social awareness.
Samanta’s contributions have garnered recognition both nationally and internationally, with over 50 awards, including the Mahatma Award from the Aditya Birla Group in 2024, honoring his dedication to equality and empowerment. He has also received the ISA Award for Service to Humanity from the Royal Kingdom of Bahrain and holds 58 honorary doctorates from institutions worldwide. His most recent doctorate from Japan’s Koyasan University, awarded in July 2024, distinguished him as only the second Indian to receive this honor, highlighting the global admiration for his work.
Committed to holistic development, Dr. Samanta is also active in sports as the President of the Volleyball Federation of India and a member of the Indian Olympic Association, reinforcing his belief in sports as a transformative force. His advocacy for a well-rounded education reflects his belief in the importance of physical, mental, and spiritual growth as essential to human empowerment.
From the dusty lanes of Kalarabanka to the international stage, Dr. Achyuta Nanda Samanta’s life is a powerful narrative of resilience and impactful change. Through KIIT, KISS, and the KIIT School of Public Policy, he has created pathways for countless individuals, providing not only education but also the tools for self-reliance and dignity. His story inspires millions worldwide, demonstrating the profound difference one person’s dream can make in society.
