It is with great pleasure and a sense of deep fulfillment that I welcome you to Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS). As the Founder of KISS, I am honored to share with you the remarkable journey of this institution and the transformative impact it has had on the lives of indigenous children.
Education is the key that unlocks the door to a brighter future. I have witnessed firsthand the power of education to uplift individuals and communities from the clutches of poverty and despair. Growing up in challenging circumstances myself, I realized the immense potential of education to bring about positive change. It became my mission to ensure that no child would have to face the hardships I endured.
In 1993, driven by a strong sense of empathy and a burning desire to make a difference, I established KISS. It started as a residential school with 125 students, providing not just education but also holistic development encompassing skilling, nutrition, and sports empowerment – all free of cost. Today, KISS stands tall as a beacon of hope, transforming the lives of more than 80,000 students directly and leaving a ripple effect on over 800,000 indigenous people.
At KISS, we embrace the values of inclusion and diversity, blending modern learning with indigenous wisdom. Our students excel in academics and extra-curricular activities, with many of them representing the nation as Olympians and sportspersons. We take pride in nurturing their talents and empowering them to become agents of change in their communities.
Our focus extends beyond education alone. We strive to create responsible citizens who understand the importance of hygiene, reject child marriage, and resist the influence of extremism. We encourage our students to embrace their cultural heritage and utilize their knowledge to contribute to the economy, breaking gender stereotypes along the way.
The impact of KISS has not gone unnoticed. We have received recognition from esteemed organizations, collaborated with global bodies, and been granted Special Consultative Status by the United Nations and UNESCO Literacy Prize 2022. But our greatest satisfaction lies in witnessing the transformation of our students and their families, as they become ambassadors of positive change in their own lives and society.
I invite you to explore the incredible work being done at KISS. Witness the stories of resilience, determination, and success that exemplify the spirit of our students. Join us in our mission to eradicate hunger, illiteracy, and poverty, and pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.
Thank you for your support and belief in the power of education. Together, let us continue to empower the indigenous children of our nation.
Prof. Achyuta Samanta
Founder, Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS)