TNI Bureau: Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT Deemed University, might be facing a tough time several allegations and charges levelled against him, but he has been featured on the cover page of Reader’s Digest magazine on its February issue. He became a national figure despite all odds and the nation will recognise him as a man, who is shaping life of many tribal children.
It is a matter of pride for Mr Samanta as Reader’s Digest has projected his life style in 8 pages. Earlier, many publications like ‘Time’, ‘South China Morning Post’, ‘Times of India’, ‘Outlook’, and ‘India Today’ had written about him highlighting his contribution to society. But for the first time, he has been featured on the cover page of the reputed magazine, which is the biggest achievement for him.
Reader’s Digest, which is being published in 20 languages from 50 countries, has featured his life, works and achievements precisely. The 48-year-old man, who is still bachelor, has set an example for all with his magnificent personality and strong determination.
Mr Samanta’s Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) houses around 16,500 tribal students. The institute is believed to be one of the world’s largest residential schools for tribal children.
He believes, “Educating just one generation of tribal children can change their communities”. He is moving forward to provide the best education to the tribal children despite all odds of life.
Samanta hails from a poor family. He has endured many things after his father, a Tata Steel employee, died when he was just 5. However, he had never surrendered to the situation. He vowed to make the life meaningful of thousands of tribal children, who cannot afford higher studies. He moved forward with a belief that the hardship he endured were in fact a gift from God and the adversity of life had taught him what a poor man really needs.
Samanta, who has shaped the life of millions of students, entered the field of social service through KISS, which gives education with boarding, clothing, tuition and other needs at free of cost to the tribal children. Even the tribal kids can be admitted free to KIIT if they want to pursue courses there. KISS has colleges offering arts, science and commerce, besides the tribal school, but Mr Samanta wants to facilitate them with qualitative education.
It can be noted that the things were not easy for Mr Samanta. His dreams came true after a long struggle. Poor people used to dream, but he was quite exceptional as he dreamt to make it true in real life. He did not give in to the adversity, but the hardship motivated him to bring cheer on others’ face.