Raghubar Das, Governor of Odisha, emphasized the crucial role of youth in nation-building during the 20th Annual Convocation of KIIT Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, held on 14th September 2024. “The country is at a challenging yet exciting juncture,” he remarked, referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of transforming India into ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047 and projecting that India will become the world’s third-largest economy by 2030.
The Governor praised KIIT students for excelling academically and in sports, noting that several have represented India at the Olympics. He also commended Dr. Achyuta Samanta for his unparalleled efforts in establishing KIIT as a leading institution of professional and higher education, using education as a tool for empowerment and societal integration.
Addressing the graduating students, Das highlighted the pivotal role of youth in innovation and startups, noting India’s place among the top three startup ecosystems globally. “Our youth are not just shaping their careers; they are shaping the future of the nation,” he stated, emphasizing their transformation from job seekers to job creators.
Nobel Peace Laureate Oleksandra Matviichuk, in a virtual address, lauded KIIT’s rapid rise to prominence both in India and globally. “Achyuta Samanta’s efforts in building institutions and reducing inequalities remind us that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things,” she said.
During the ceremony, KIIT-DU conferred Honoris Causa degrees upon four eminent personalities: Dr. D. Nageshwar Reddy, Dr. Chandra Bhanu Satpathy, Mr. Kishor Patil, and Shri Ashirbad Behera, recognizing their significant contributions in health, spiritualism, business, and sports. In their acceptance speeches, each honoree expressed gratitude and reflected on KIIT’s impact on society.
A total of 7,283 degrees were awarded to the Class of 2024, including 5,455 Bachelor’s, 1,597 Master’s, and 186 Ph.D. degrees. Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT and KISS, encouraged graduates to embrace risk-taking and innovation, reminding them of the importance of “Idea, Innovation, and Impact.”
Chancellor Ashok Kumar Parija, in his presidential address, praised KIIT’s transformation into a leading institution, a journey marked by vision, hard work, and dedication. Vice Chancellor Prof. Saranjit Singh highlighted KIIT’s growing recognition on the global stage, including its representation in Stanford University’s database of the ‘World’s Top 2% Scientists.’
The ceremony also celebrated outstanding academic achievements, with 59 students receiving medals for excellence. Founder’s Gold Medals, Chancellor’s Gold Medals, Vice Chancellor’s Silver Medals, and other special awards were presented. The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Registrar Prof. J. R. Mohanty.
