The 20th Annual Convocation of KIIT Deemed to be University (KIIT-DU), Bhubaneswar was held on 14th September 2024, during which a total of 7283 students were conferred with Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD degrees. Gracing the occasion as the Chief Guest, Shri Raghubar Das, Hon'ble Governor of Odisha, highlighted India's rapid progress and the crucial role of youth in nation-building.
"The country is going through both a challenging and exciting phase. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has set the vision of transforming the country into Viksit Bharat by 2047. It is estimated that Bharat will become the 3rd largest economy of the world by 2030. Today, youth are leading the change in the country. They are playing a leading role in innovation and start-ups. Instead of job seekers, they are becoming job givers," Shri Das said, addressing the Batch of 2024. He praised KIIT students for excelling in academics as well as sports, with many representing India at the Olympics, and commended Prof. Achyuta Samanta for his unparalleled work in using education as a tool of empowerment and social integration.
Delivering her convocation address virtually, Ms. Oleksandra Matviichuk, Nobel Peace Laureate (2022), Ukraine, observed that KIIT has emerged as one of the most prominent institutions in India and globally in a short span. "Prof. Samanta's example in building institutions and his efforts in reducing inequalities remind me of one simple truth – ordinary people can do extraordinary things," she remarked.
On the occasion, KIIT-DU conferred Honoris Causa Doctorate Degrees upon four eminent personalities. Dr. D. Nageshwar Reddy, Chairman, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology & AIG Hospitals, was conferred Honoris Causa D.Sc. Degree, while Dr. Chandra Bhanu Satpathy, Eminent Writer, Spiritual Thinker and Humanitarian; Mr. Kishor Patil, Co-Founder, MD & CEO, KPIT Technologies Ltd.; and Shri Ashirbad Behera, Hony. Secretary, Odisha Athletics Association & Football Association of Odisha, were honoured with Honoris Causa D.Litt. Degrees for their pioneering contributions in the fields of health, spiritualism, business, and sports respectively.
Expressing gratitude, Dr. Reddy said that KIIT serves as an exemplary model of giving back to society. Dr. Satpathy stated that Dr. Samanta has instilled a sense of hope in marginalised communities who once never dared to dream. Mr. Patil remarked that India has the potential to become a global hub for core technology and research, while Shri Behera dedicated the honour to the sports fraternity.
Congratulating the graduating students, Prof. Achyuta Samanta, Founder, KIIT & KISS, exhorted them to take risks, learn from failures, and rise with confidence. "Always keep in mind the three I's – Idea, Innovation, and Impact. These will shape your future and the world around you," he advised in his message.
In his presidential address, Shri Ashok Kumar Parija, Chancellor, KIIT-DU, said, "KIIT's journey from its humble beginnings to being recognised among the country's leading institutions is a story of vision, hard work, and unwavering dedication. This transformation would not have been possible without the relentless efforts of Prof. Samanta, and the tireless commitment of our faculty and staff."
Presenting the report of the University, Prof. Saranjit Singh, Vice Chancellor, highlighted KIIT's global achievements, stating that the latest Stanford University database of the World's Top 2% Scientists features 20 distinguished researchers from KIIT and its constituent institutions. Prof. (Dr.) S. K. Acharya, Pro-Chancellor, also addressed the gathering and lauded KIIT's role in shaping young minds.
On the occasion, medals were awarded to 59 students for their outstanding academic performance. Three students received the Founder's Gold Medals for all-round excellence, 26 students were awarded the Chancellor's Gold Medals, and 27 students received the Vice Chancellor's Silver Medals. The Nanibala Memorial Gold Medal, P. K. Bal Memorial Gold Medal, and PPL Gold Medal were also presented.
Prof. J. R. Mohanty, Registrar, proposed the vote of thanks. Among others, senior functionaries of the University were present.
