Bhubaneswar: Prof. Neville G Pinto, president of the University of Cincinnati, was conferred the prestigious KISS Lifetime Achievement Award during his visit to the campus here on Friday.
Prof. Pinto expressed his admiration for the institution and its founder Dr Achyuta Samanta while announcing a significant partnership between the American university, KIIT and KISS.
“Dr Samanta started from utter poverty and hunger, and now look at what he has accomplished. His philosophy of always doing good for others is truly inspiring. Each one of you has the same potential to achieve what Dr Samanta has achieved. Knowledge provides you with the power to do good, and Prof. Samanta’s dedication and passion should be a guiding light for all,” Prof. Pinto said.
The University of Cincinnati will forge a partnership with KIIT and KISS, Prof. Pinto informed, adding that the suggestion was put forward by the Indian Ambassador to the USA, Taranjit Singh Sandhu.
Prof. Pinto expressed hope that this partnership would benefit students and faculty alike, opening new avenues for research, cultural exchange and academic excellence.
“As a 200-year-old institution, we are amazed by what KIIT and KISS have accomplished in just 27 years. UNESCO has recognised you with the Literacy Award, and your remarkable achievements speak volumes about your vision and dedication,” said Prof. Pinto.
Dr Samanta expressed highlighted the historical significance of this collaboration. “It is a moment of pride for us that an Indian-born academician is leading a prestigious university like the University of Cincinnati, established in 1819. While KIIT and KISS are relatively young, we have achieved milestones on par with IITs and NITs. Our tremendous contributions in the fields of academics and sports are a testament to our commitment,” said Samanta.
Among other dignitaries present on the occasion was KISS vice-chancellor Prof. Deepak Kumar Behera.
