The Ripple Effect Of Giving

In a time when public trust in institutions is increasingly shaped by transparency and values, the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) and the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) are placing compassion at the core of their operations through an initiative known as The Art of Giving.

Founded by noted educationist and philanthropist Dr. Achyuta Samanta, The Art of Giving has grown from a concept into a civic movement promoting empathy and inclusivity across social and economic boundaries.

KISS, which currently educates over 30,000 tribal students free of cost, has become a model for inclusive education in India. Students receive not only academic instruction, but also meals, healthcare, vocational training, and housing. The institution has supported nearly a million tribal youth since its inception.

“Education is only the beginning,” said a spokesperson from KISS. “We aim to create individuals who can transform their communities.”

Meanwhile, KIIT has emerged as a leading higher education institution with a global student base. In addition to academic excellence, it emphasizes community engagement, volunteerism, and social responsibility—attributes now deeply integrated into student life.

The Art of Giving initiative plays a key role in shaping this ecosystem. Students and staff regularly participate in outreach programs, healthcare camps, and rural development drives. Alumni are encouraged to carry this ethos into their professional lives.

“The idea is simple—give what you can, when you can,” said a senior faculty member. “This could be time, effort, knowledge, or support.”

The initiative’s relevance has only grown in recent years, especially amid rising concerns around mental health, institutional accountability, and student well-being. While some educational institutions across India face criticism over handling of student-related incidents, KIIT and KISS have focused on strengthening emotional support systems and welfare initiatives.

“It’s during crises that institutional character is revealed,” said a community leader associated with the program. “These institutions have responded with self-reflection and service.”

Dr. Samanta, who rose from poverty in rural Odisha, has maintained that the purpose of education should extend beyond the classroom. His efforts have earned national and international recognition, yet he continues to frame his work as an act of gratitude.

“When we give,” he often says, “we not only support others—we strengthen our own humanity.”

With The Art of Giving, KIIT and KISS are not only fostering academic growth, but also shaping a generation committed to building a more compassionate and equitable society.