KISS-DU, IIT Bhubaneswar and Vidya Bhaban Ink Landmark MoU to Foster Academic and Skill Excellence
In a significant step towards strengthening academic collaboration and skill-oriented education, a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on 4th May 2026 between the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar, Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) Deemed to be University and Vidya Bhaban. The MoU signing ceremony was at KISS-DU. It brought together eminent academicians, administrators, and industry representatives, marking the beginning of a strategic partnership aimed at promoting innovation-driven learning, research collaboration and holistic development of students.
Delivering the welcome address, Dr. P. K. Routray, Registrar, KISS-DU extended a warm and cordial welcome to the distinguished gathering, including Prof. B. K. Mishra of IIT Bhubaneswar, Deans, Directors, CEOs, and representatives from the partnering institutions. He described the occasion as a “moment of pride and promise”, highlighting that the collaboration goes beyond a formal agreement and reflects a shared vision to create meaningful academic and professional opportunities for students.
Dr. Routray emphasized that such partnerships are crucial in addressing the evolving demands of the 21st century and align closely with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the national mission of building a skilled and self-reliant India. He further noted that IIT Bhubaneswar has emerged as a premier institution contributing significantly to science, technology, innovation and entrepreneurship, while KISS-DU continues to prioritize skill development as a core pillar of its educational philosophy. He also appreciated Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT, KISS and KIMS for his visionary leadership and unparalleled contribution to the cause of tribal education and empowerment. Dr. Routray acknowledged that the transformative model established by Dr. Samanta has become a global benchmark in inclusive and value-based education.
The inclusion of Vidya Bhaban in this collaborative framework was also warmly acknowledged, with expectations that the partnership would foster a vibrant ecosystem nurturing knowledge, values and innovation.
In his address, Prof. Barada Kanta Mishra, Distinguished Professor, IIT Bhubaneswar and Former Director, IIT Goa expressed deep satisfaction over the initiative taken by KISS-DU. He conveyed optimism that the MoU would lead to meaningful and impactful outcomes in the years ahead. Professor Soobhankar Pati, CEO and Independent Director of IIT Bhubaneswar’s Research and Entrepreneurship Park, also shared his strong confidence in the collaboration, underscoring its potential to drive research, innovation, and entrepreneurial growth.
Landmark MoU to Foster Academic and Skill Excellence
Representing Vidya Bhaban, Mr. Amlan Kumar Biswal, Director, Pramod Vidya Bhaban Private Limited appreciated the partnership and expressed his commitment to working hand in hand with the institutions to achieve shared goals. The ceremony was also graced by the presence of Prof. Jnyana Ranjan Mohanty, Registrar, KIIT-DU whose participation added further significance to the occasion.
The ceremony concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Tapan Kumar Mohanty, Head of Operations, Pramod Vidya Bhaban who acknowledged the efforts of all stakeholders in making the collaboration a reality. The MoU is expected to open new avenues for academic exchange, faculty development, student training, internships, joint research initiatives and community engagement. It marks the beginning of a promising and enduring relationship among the three institutions with the potential to create a lasting impact on education and society.