THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, NOVEMBER 13, 2026

 “Never lose your curiosity” — this was the inspiring message of International Court of Justice (ICJ) President Judge Iwasawa Yuji to graduates as the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) Deemed to be University celebrated its 6th Annual Convocation here on Friday, urging young minds to embrace uncertainty with confidence, pursue their goals with determination and remain committed to lifelong learning.

Addressing around 40,000 students, Judge Yuji congratulated the graduating students and emphasised that receiving a degree was not the end of education but the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning and discovery. Encouraging them not to be afraid of uncertainty, he said, “Don’t fear uncertainty, go ahead with confidence to attain your goal.” He also urged the graduates to remain curious and use their education to make meaningful contributions to society and their communities.

The grand convocation witnessed the conferment of Honoris Causa degrees on six distinguished personalities in recognition of their exceptional contributions to society, education, justice and public service. The recipients included Judge Iwasawa Yuji, President of the International Court of Justice; Judge Bogdan-Lucian Aurescu and Judge Leonardo Nemer Caldeira Brant, both judges of the ICJ; Smt. Vijaya Rahatkar, Chairperson of the National Commission for Women; Dr. Anuradha Sharma (Mataji), Chairperson of Pt. Ram Narayan Sharma Educational Trust and RNS World School, Uttar Pradesh; and Shri Surendra Nath Panda, Founder and Chairman of JayBharat Foundation and Bharat Masala, Cuttack.

On the occasion, the prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award was presented to Judge Iwasawa Yuji for his distinguished contribution to international justice and humanity. Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT, KISS and KIMS, presented the award in the presence of Saswati Bal, President of KIIT and KISS, and Umapada Bose, Vice-President.

Highlighting the importance of dedication and commitment in professional life, ICJ Judge Bogdan-Lucian Aurescu observed that teaching was one of the noblest forms of public service. He called upon students to remain passionate about their chosen professions, noting that passion was the driving force behind continuous learning and personal growth. He also reminded them of their responsibilities towards their families, communities and the nation.

Expressing his gratitude on receiving the honorary degree, ICJ Judge Leonardo Nemer Caldeira Brant described the recognition as an exceptional honour that would remain a cherished memory throughout his life. Appreciating the remarkable gathering of students, he said he had never witnessed such a wonderful congregation anywhere in the world. He also praised the extraordinary success story of KISS, describing its achievements as truly remarkable.

In her address, Dr. Anuradha Sharma (Mataji) urged the graduating students to uphold the ideals and philosophy of KISS Founder Dr. Achyuta Samanta, saying that following his vision and values would be the best way to give back to their institution.

Vijaya Rahatkar, Chairperson of the National Commission for Women, invoked the timeless philosophy of Odia saint-poet Bhima Bhoi, who said, “Let my own life suffer, if only the world may be relieved of its suffering.” She said the spirit of selflessness and compassion reflected in the philosophy of KISS was rooted in the same humanitarian ideals. Dr. Samanta had demonstrated how compassion, backed by vision and determination, could build an institution capable of transforming generations. By empowering tribal children while preserving and respecting their cultural heritage, KISS has shown that true empowerment lies in embracing the future without losing touch with one's roots, she added.

A total of 469 students, including Ph.D. scholars, received their degrees at the convocation. Enketeswar Kandagari was adjudged the university's Best Graduating Student and received the prestigious Founder's Gold Medal. Seven students who secured the highest CGPA in their respective disciplines were awarded the Chancellor's Gold Medals, while another seven students with the second-highest CGPA received the Vice-Chancellor's Silver Medals.

The convocation was attended by KISS Secretary R. N. Dash, KIIT Secretary Manoranjan Pradhan, KISS-DU Chancellor Ashok Kumar Parija, Pro-Chancellor Prof. Deepak Behera, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Saranjit Singh and Registrar Dr. Prashanta Kumar Routray, among other distinguished guests and dignitaries.