Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Sunday inaugurated the KIIT School of Public Policy, commending India’s democratic strength and transparent policies and advocating for citizen-centric policies that involve all stakeholders, ensure equal rights and is answerable to the people.
Speaking to an audience of academicians, policymakers, Judges and students, Birla emphasized the importance of public policy in shaping the future of the country. “India is the world’s largest democracy, and its diversity is its strength. A well-drafted public policy is the foundation of a strong nation,” he stated, noting that the world is now looking to India for its peace-promoting policies, based on the principle of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” or “the world is one family.” The Speaker lauded KIIT and KISS founder Dr. Achyuta Samanta for his vision and efforts in empowering tribals and the marginalized.
Odisha Legislative Assembly Speaker Surama Padhy highlighted the critical role the new school will play in shaping future leaders and creating policies for a prosperous Odisha. “For a ‘Vikashit Odisha’ (Developed Odisha), good policy and strong leadership are essential. This school is the need of the hour,” she said in her address.
The School will offer a One Year Master Program from the ensuing academic session. The knowledge partners are Indian Council of World Affairs and United Nations System Staff College.
Deputy Chief Minister of Odisha, KV Singhdeo commended Dr. Samanta’s contributions to education. “Public Policy is for the people, not individual goals. Odisha is fortunate that Achyuta Samanta is working for the cause of education,” he noted. Odisha’s Law, Works and Excise Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan called the new Public Policy school “another feather in KIIT’s crown.”
Otto Ramon Sonnenholzner Sper, former Vice-President of Ecuador, stressed the importance of trust and respect for diversity in building strong institutions.
The inauguration also saw speeches from prominent figures like Dr. Jafar Javan, Director of the United Nations System Staff College in Turin, Italy, who called the launch of the school “a milestone for KIIT and India.” He praised Dr. Samanta for his dedication to social change and highlighted the ongoing partnership between the UN and KIIT, including future collaboration on the Nelson Mandela Project for Social Change.
Lok Sabha MP from Bhubaneswar Aparajita Sarangi delivered an inspiring speech, emphasizing the extraordinary achievements of Dr. Samanta. “One life is not enough to achieve what Achyuta Samanta has achieved. He has demonstrated that every moment in life is important,” she said, lauding Samanta’s humility and dedication to education.
She also highlighted the significance of the new Public Policy school, which will offer a one-year course to 60 students. “Public Policy is essentially what a Government chooses to do or not to do. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in 2014, ‘I want minimum government and maximum governance.’ This vision can be achieved through the right policy design, and I am confident this school will play a pivotal role in that journey,” she remarked.
Shombi Sharp, UN Resident Coordinator in India, also emphasized the global impact of the new school. “This institution will contribute to global knowledge and foster the leaders of tomorrow,” he said, praising Dr. Samantha’s visionary leadership.
Nutan Kapoor Mahawar, Additional Secretary at the Indian Council of World Affairs, described the school as a timely initiative that would shape both Indian governance and international relations. “This school is a forward-looking response to contemporary demands. It will foster deeper alliances among world leaders,” she remarked.
Padma Shri and filmmaker Dr. Chandraprkash Dwivedi emphasized that public policies should be one that is committed to the welfare of the nation while Professor Emeritus, KIIT School of Law Prof. N.L. Mitra said the school will produce the future policy makers who will shape the destiny of the nation.
Dr. Samanta expressed his gratitude for the recognition of his institutions, noting that the visit by the Speaker marked the second time Om Birla has honored KIIT and KISS during his tenure. Dr. Samanta reiterated his commitment to social upliftment through education, which has been acknowledged by various leaders, including in Parliament.
KIIT Chancellor Dr. Ashok Parija, Vice Chancellor Professor Saranjit Singh, Senior Director of Asia Society Policy Institute Akshay Mathur, among others, were present at the event.