Chittaranjan Pradhan

[KIIT - Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology @KIITUniversity]

We were delighted to host an engaging Collective Social Learning (CSL) Workshop at the KIIT School of Rural Management (KSRM), led by internationally acclaimed sustainability practitioner Mr Greg Bruce, OAM, recipient of the Order of Australia Medal.

Bringing together nearly 180 participants, including professors and international students from the City University of New York (CUNY), alongside students and faculty from our Schools of Rural Management, Civil Engineering, Design, and Architecture & Planning, the workshop became a vibrant platform for collaboration, innovation, and shared learning.

Through immersive and interactive sessions, we explored pathways towards a more sustainable and inclusive future. Faculty and students participated as equals, exchanging ideas, identifying opportunities and challenges, and applying systems thinking to real-world sustainability issues.

The workshop inspired participants to commit to meaningful personal actions while proposing collaborative initiatives that KIIT and CUNY can jointly undertake to advance sustainability and strengthen global partnerships. The exchange of diverse perspectives across cultures and disciplines reinforced the value of collective learning and responsible leadership.

The programme concluded with an informal networking session, fostering new international connections and laying the foundation for future collaborations. We remain committed to creating transformative learning experiences that empower our students to become responsible global changemakers.

[Achyuta Samanta @achyuta_samanta]

My lovable KISSians joined the ‘10 Crore Drug-Free Pledge Mega Campaign’ organised by Prajapita Brahma Kumaris at KISS today.

I feel happy that my lovable children took a pledge to stay away from drugs and create awareness among their friends, families and communities. I told them that their life and future are very precious. They should remain healthy, disciplined and strong, and never allow any addiction to come in the way of their dreams.

The youth are the greatest strength of our country, and healthy and drug-free youth can build a strong and developed India.

We are grateful to Prajapita Brahma Kumaris for this important nationwide initiative. Let us all work together for a drug-free India.

[Chittaranjan Pradhan @chitaprakash]

Applications are invited for the Ph.D. Program for Autumn 2026. Interested candidates are requested to apply through the official portal: https://t.co/kp2Dns3qul
For any queries or further information, candidates may contact me at: [email protected]

[Achyuta Samanta @achyuta_samanta]

Internationalisation of higher education has always been an important priority for us at KIIT and KISS. Two years ago, we started IndiaTrek, a special initiative that allows students from other countries to experience India’s culture, history, traditions and community life while learning and interacting with our students. I am happy that it has become a very successful initiative.

At the beginning of this new academic session, I feel very happy to welcome a delegation of 38 participants—28 students and 10 faculty members—representing seven colleges of the City University of New York (CUNY). During their ten-day stay, they will spend time with the students of KIIT and KISS, exchange ideas and experience the culture and warmth of Odisha.

I am especially happy to know that each one of them was delighted to see KIIT and KISS flourishing in a state like Odisha. Their happiness and appreciation give us great encouragement.

I have always believed that education should bring people, cultures and countries closer. My best wishes to all our guests for a happy and memorable stay at KIIT and KISS.

[KIIT - Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology @KIITUniversity]

We are proud to partner with PwC India by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch the Career Readiness Training Programme in collaboration with SAP University Alliances.

This strategic initiative will equip our students with industry-relevant SAP skills, globally recognised certifications, real-world project exposure, internships, and enhanced career opportunities, bridging academia and industry while creating a sustainable pipeline of future-ready professionals.

Together, we are strengthening industry-academia collaboration and empowering the next generation of skilled, certified, and deployment-ready talent.

[KIIT - Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology @KIITUniversity]

We are delighted to welcome a 38-member delegation from the City University of New York (CUNY), comprising 28 students and 10 faculty and staff chaperones, to KIIT as part of the India Trek Programme.

During their visit, the delegation is engaging with our vibrant academic community, exploring our campuses, and experiencing the unique blend of education, innovation, sustainability, and social transformation that defines the KIIT ecosystem. Through interactive sessions, cultural exchanges, institutional visits, and meaningful conversations, the programme is fostering cross-cultural understanding, global perspectives, and lasting academic connections.

As the delegation continues its week-long stay, we look forward to enriching collaborations, shared learning experiences, and strengthening the enduring partnership between KIIT and CUNY.

[KIIT - Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology @KIITUniversity]

In collaboration with the International Justice Mission (IJM) and Shram Bahini, our KIIT School of Law observed the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, bringing together leaders from government, academia, the judiciary, and civil society to strengthen collective efforts to combat human trafficking and bonded labour.

A key highlight of the programme was the launch of Restored in Odisha and the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the Identification, Rescue and Rehabilitation of Bonded Labourers, reinforcing institutional mechanisms to uphold human dignity, protect fundamental rights, and strengthen access to justice.

The event was graced by Shri Prithiviraj Harichandan, Hon'ble Minister of Law, Works & Excise, Government of Odisha, as the Chief Guest. Prof. (Dr.) Saranjit Singh, Vice Chancellor, KIIT Deemed to be University, and Prof. (Dr.) Raju K. D., Pro Vice Chancellor, also graced the occasion, alongside distinguished dignitaries from academia, government, the judiciary, and civil society.

The programme was coordinated by the Centre for Women and Gender Studies (CWGS), a student society of KIIT Law School, reflecting our continued commitment to promoting legal awareness, social justice, and the protection of human rights.

[Chittaranjan Pradhan @chitaprakash]

@achyuta_samanta Congratulations Sir 🙏

[Achyuta Samanta @achyuta_samanta]

75th Honorary Doctorate

Deeply humbled to receive my 75th Honorary Doctorate from Maharaja Ganga Singh University, Bikaner, a State University of Rajasthan, at a Special Convocation held at Lok Bhavan, Jaipur today.

It was a matter of great honour to receive the degree from Hon’ble Governor of Rajasthan and Chancellor of the University, Shri Haribhau Bagde. I am grateful to Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister and Higher & Technical Education Minister Dr Prem Chand Bairwa, the Hon’ble Ministers and MLAs, the leadership of Maharaja Ganga Singh University and all the distinguished persons present on this special occasion.

This honour is very special to me. It is my 75th Honorary Doctorate, conferred by a government university through a Special Convocation at Lok Bhavan. Such recognition gives me more strength and also greater responsibility to continue working for the people in society.

Above all, this honour has come just two days before the 10th Punyatithi of my beloved mother, Nilimarani Samanta. I dedicate it to her sacred memory, her struggles, sacrifices and blessings. Whatever little I have been able to do in life is because of the values she gave me.

My heartfelt gratitude to Maharaja Ganga Singh University, especially the Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, Dr Manoj Dixit, and everyone associated with this honour. It will always remain very close to my heart.

[Chittaranjan Pradhan @chitaprakash]

@achyuta_samanta Congratulations Sir 🙏

[Achyuta Samanta @achyuta_samanta]

I am deeply humbled to receive the Global Visionary Award for Inclusive Education at the IFIP World Inclusion Conference India 2026 in New Delhi today. This honour recognises the journey of inclusive education, tribal empowerment and social transformation through KIIT and KISS.

The International Forums of Inclusion Practitioners (IFIP), United Kingdom, is a global network working across more than 140 countries to promote inclusion in education and society. Its two-day conference, being held in India for the first time, has brought together more than 200 leading educators, policymakers, inclusion practitioners and leaders from different countries to discuss equity, accessibility and equal opportunities for every learner. Receiving this recognition from such a global platform is very special to me.

My heartfelt gratitude to IFIP and everyone associated with this honour. It will always remain very close to my heart.

[Achyuta Samanta @achyuta_samanta]

Congratulations to my lovable KIITian Praveen Chithravel on winning the Silver Medal in the Men’s Triple Jump at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow. I feel very happy to see him bring glory to India and make the entire KIIT-KISS family proud.

Congratulations also to Tejaswin Shankar on winning the Bronze Medal in the Men’s Decathlon and creating history as the first Indian to win a Commonwealth Games medal in this event. His achievement has made the entire country proud.

My best wishes to both of them for many more achievements in the days ahead.

[Chittaranjan Pradhan @chitaprakash]

@achyuta_samanta Congratulations

[Achyuta Samanta @achyuta_samanta]

10 years have passed since Maa left her mortal presence. Yet, not a single day has passed when I have not felt her presence and blessings in my life.

I lost my father when I was only four years old. From that day, Maa became everything to me—my mother, father, teacher, my best friend, strength and greatest support. Amidst extreme poverty and countless struggles, she raised all seven of us single-handedly. I never saw her lose courage or complain about her difficulties.

Maa never asked for anything for herself. Her only wish was that I should serve people, care for the poor and work for the development of our village and society. Whatever I am today and whatever I have been able to do through KIIT, KISS and KIMS is only because of her sacrifice, values and blessings.

On her 10th Punyatithi, my heartfelt tributes to my Maa—my first teacher, my greatest strength and my eternal hero.

I pray before Mahaprabhu Jagannath for the eternal peace of her sacred soul.

My Mother, My Hero.

[Achyuta Samanta @achyuta_samanta]

Heartiest congratulations to Murali Sreeshankar on winning the silver medal in the Long Jump at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow with a jump of 8.09 metres. This is his second consecutive Commonwealth Games silver medal, after Birmingham 2022.

Coming back after injury and winning a medal at this level is not easy. I am very happy for Murali. He has made India and the entire KIIT family proud. My best wishes to him for many more successes ahead.

[Achyuta Samanta @achyuta_samanta]

Friendship has always been one of the most precious relationships in my life. A true friend is equal to a thousand relatives—selfless, caring and always there when we need support.

Since the age of five, I have valued friendship deeply. I have always believed that one good friend can make difficult days easier, solve many problems and make every happy moment more memorable. Even today, I give great importance to my friendships.

Having a true friend is one of the greatest blessings in life.

Happy International Day of Friendship to all my dear friends.

[KIIT - Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology @KIITUniversity]

We are proud to contribute to India's advancing space research ecosystem.

KIIT Deemed to be University participated in the National Workshop on Microgravity Research involving Academia, Research Institutes and Indian Industry at ISRO Headquarters, Bengaluru.

Representing KIIT, Dr S.K.S. Parashar, Professor, School of Applied Sciences and Principal Investigator, iMex-2026 (ISRO), joined eminent scientists, researchers and industry leaders to discuss the future of microgravity research under India's Human Space Programme.

Our participation reflects KIIT's unwavering commitment to research, innovation and scientific excellence. The knowledge gained and collaborations established through this prestigious national platform will strengthen our efforts in microgravity science and space technology, contributing to the nation's scientific and technological progress.

[KIIT - Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology @KIITUniversity]

Our School of Design inaugurated the Autodesk Design & Innovation Studio, Makers Lab and Clay Lab, marking a major milestone in advancing design education, technology and experiential learning.

The inauguration was graced by Founder Dr Achyuta Samanta, Vice Chancellor Prof. Saranjit Singh, Registrar Dr Jnyana Ranjan Mohanty, Senior Director General Dr S. S. Ray, and Director General, KIIT Art Academy, Padma Shri Adwaita Gadanayak, along with Mr. Akhilesh Sahi, Lead – India Academic, Field Engagement, Autodesk India; Mr. Arun Kumar, Senior Engagement Education Manager, Autodesk India; Dr. Saigeeta Priyadarshini, Partner Success Manager, Autodesk India; Mr. Niranjan Kumar Singh, Managing Director, Twintech Autodesk ALP; and Dr. Nisha Singh, Director, Twintech Autodesk ALP.

The new facilities will empower students with industry-relevant digital design tools, hands-on prototyping, material exploration and interdisciplinary collaboration, reinforcing KIIT's commitment to nurturing the next generation of designers, innovators and creative leaders.

[KIIT - Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology @KIITUniversity]

A proud homecoming at KIIT as we welcomed and felicitated our alumna, Ms Jyotirmayee Nayak, following her remarkable victory in Indian Idol Season 16.

The celebration became even more special when she performed before the students, filling the campus with music and joy. Her talent, hard work and dedication have made Odisha proud and inspired many young minds to believe in their own abilities.

KIIT has always encouraged students to pursue excellence beyond academics and provided space for diverse talents to grow. Jyotirmayee’s success will motivate many more KIITians to work hard and shine in their chosen fields.

The entire KIIT & KISS family wishes her many more milestones in her musical career.

[Achyuta Samanta @achyuta_samanta]

The KIIT & KISS family is set to welcome our lovable KIITian, Ms Jyotirmayee Nayak, as she returns to KIIT after winning Indian Idol Season 16.

As a KIIT alumna and Odisha’s proud daughter, her achievement has brought immense happiness to the entire KIIT family and the people of Odisha. We will welcome her and celebrate this proud achievement at the KIIT campus from 4:00 PM onwards. I invite everyone to watch us live at https://t.co/GvUjHPtbH1 and bless her for a bright musical journey ahead.

#KIITianJyotirmayee