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Empowering the Future: National Seminar Explores the KISS Model of Sustainable Development Goals

Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) Deemed to be University recently hosted a landmark One-Day National Seminar titled “KISS Vis-à-vis Social Development Goals (SDG)”. The event served as a platform for global experts, policymakers, and students to discuss how institutional models can effectively translate international sustainable development targets into community-level realities.

KISS: A Living Model of the 17 SDGs

The seminar opened with a powerful visual presentation demonstrating how KISS integrates education, health, and skill development for its 40,000 tribal students. Professor Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT and KISS, delivered the welcome address, describing the institution as a sustainable financial model that brings all 17 SDG objectives to life. He emphasized that the KISS approach aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision by prioritizing indigenous inclusion, holistic development, and citizen participation.

Insights from NITI Aayog: Policy into People

Mr. Suman Kumar Bery, Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog, served as the Chief Guest. He defined the SDGs as a “solemn agreement” and an "internal contract" by leaders to provide a decent life for their citizens by 2030. He lauded India's “SDG localization” model, noting that the international community, particularly nations in Africa, looks to India's state-level implementation as a guide. Mr. Bery highlighted that inclusive growth is impossible without overall economic growth, urging the private sector to take a more central role.


Dr. Arvind Virmani, Member of NITI Aayog, focused on the “three pyramids” of education, skilling, and jobs. He noted that while high-level education is vital, the semi-skilled workforce is a crucial driver for manufacturing and maintenance. He suggested that Odisha has the potential to become the “semi-skilled capital of India,” provided there is a continued focus on vocational training and entrepreneurship modules. 

Dr. Prabhakar Sahu, Program Director at NITI Aayog, added that KISS is a "clear reflection of the sustainable development model," specifically noting its impact on Odisha's tribal population, which makes up roughly 23% of the state.

Global Perspectives on Future Literacy and Community Action

The seminar featured insights from international development practitioners who emphasized the human side of the SDGs:

  • SDG Localization through Volunteerism: Miss Abha Mishra (UNDP) asserted that SDGs require “active citizenship” to bridge the gap between policy and community action.
  • Holistic Education and Mental Health: Dr. Soula Kyriakou (International Executive School) argued that quality education (SDG 4) must be a holistic ecosystem that supports mental health and cultural identity. He warned against "digital closeness and emotional distance," urging a return to human presence and silence.
  • Future Literacy: Dr. Mohammad Nadim Noor (UNFPA) used the plot of Brave New World to illustrate the danger of literacy without critical thinking. He identified five key shifts—including demographics and "cloud capitalism"—that require students to possess "future literacy" to adapt to a changing world.

Voices from the Ground: Student Testimonials and Success Stories


The impact of the KISS model was personified by Shri Ashok Kumar Parija, Chancellor of KIIT, who shared the story of Pratima Maji, a girl from the once-starvation-prone Kalahandi district who returned to her village as a medical doctor. Research scholars also presented their experiences:

  • Poverty Eradication: Laxman Dora highlighted how the “Earn While You Learn” program builds dignity of labor and breaks generational poverty.
  • Circular Water Economy: Enketeshwar detailed the campus's sustainable circular water economy, including industrial-grade filtration and 100% wastewater recycling for green maintenance.
  • Indigenous Healthcare: Linu Mundamajhi discussed how KISS integrates modern healthcare with a Center for Indigenous Knowledge, focusing on herbal medicine and traditional healing.

Looking Toward 2047


The seminar concluded with a vision for the future. Professor Dr. Saranjit Singh, Acting Vice Chancellor of KISS, pledged that the university would foster an entrepreneurial spirit among its students, with a goal of launching at least 100 startups in the coming years. This commitment reinforces the university's role in driving India's journey toward becoming a developed nation by 2047.

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