Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) Deemed to be University celebrated its 15th Foundation Day with Rahul Bose, actor and activist delivering the Foundation Day lecture on Friday. A host of dignitaries, including Dr Kota Harinarayana, INAE Satish Dhawan Chair of Engineering Eminence, CSIRNAL & Chairman, General Aeronautics Pvt. Ltd. Prof. Kakha Shengelia, President, International Association of University Presidents (IAUP); Dr. Santosh Kumar Kamila, Chief Postmaster General, Odisha Circle; and Mr. Rajendra Prasad Gupta, Director of Postal Services (Hq.), Bhubaneswar were present.

“It is incredible that over 55000 students are studying in KIIT and Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS). KISS is bringing about a transformation by educating underprivileged children. It is an extraordinary example and inspiration by its Founder, Dr. Achyuta Samanta, said Mr. Rahul Bose in his lecture. The institution has grown beyond words, remarked Mr. Bose, who visited the institute after a gap of 11 years.

Recounting his life experiences, he advised the students to “keep your head cool even if your heart is hot” and “under-promise and over deliver” to succeed in life. In a major boost to the brand value of KIIT globally, B.Tech programmes have got the coveted Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), UK accreditation. Despite being relatively young (20 years as an institute and 14 years as a university), KIIT has secured 250th position in the QS BRICS World University Rankings for 2018.

Releasing a commemorative postal stamp and special cover on the occasion, Dr. Santosh Kumar Kamila, Chief Postmaster General, Odisha Circle said, “Dr. Samanta is a visionary who transformed a small institute to a worldclass university within a very short time. India Post is proud to be associated with KIIT for a long time”.

Dr. Kota Harinarayana highlighted Odisha’s high potential in the development of rare earth industry. The State has rich deposits of rare earth minerals, a special class of 17 elements that have extensive uses across various industries including computer and IT, clean energy systems and healthcare, he informed. ‘Himakshara’, a Madhya Pradesh-based social organisation, presented Lifetime Achievement Award to Dr. Achyuta Samanta for his contribution in the field of education, social work, literature, art and culture. Prof. Kakha Shengelia and Mr. Rajendra Prasad Gupta also spoke on the occasion. Dr A Samanta expressed his gratitude to the guests.