Eminent Educationist, social activist, Founder of KIIT & KISS (Bhubaneswar) 
and Lok Sabha MP from Kandhamal Dr. Achyuta Samanta has been conferred the 
honorary D. Litt degree by Utkal University in recognition of his immense 
contribution to the field of education and social service. This is the 50th 
honorary degree conferred on him.

    Utkal University, which is also Dr. Samanta's alma mater, presented the 
honour to him at its 52nd convocation on 23rd December 2022. He received the 
degree from the University Chancellor and Governor of Odisha, Prof. Ganeshi Lal 
in the presence of Former Chief Justice of Supreme Court Justice V. Gopala 
Gowda, University Vice Chancellor Prof. Sabita Acharya and Higher Education 
Principal Secretary, Govt of Odisha, Bishnupada Sethi, among others.

    Addressing the august gathering, the Governor made a special mention about 
Dr. Samanta while beginning his address and described him as a 'leading legend 
of the convocation'. He said that Dr. Samanta embodies key human attributes 
such as simplicity, humility, gratitude, courage, perseverance, generosity, 
equanimity, peace and goodness.

    Dr. Samanta expressed his deepest gratitude to the Chancellor for the 
honour, besides the VC and the University Syndicate. "All are aware of my life 
that is dedicated to the service of others. As a recognition of my life, work 
and accomplishments, I have been conferred many accolades and awards. However, 
some awards are extra special, like this one. I am elated that Utkal 
University, my own alma mater is conferring Honorary D. Litt. Degree on me, 
thereby making it my 50th honorary doctorate, the highest for any Indian. I 
dedicate this award to my hero, my mother, and all her struggles and sacrifice. 
It is the Almighty's blessings and good wishes of the people that have helped 
me reach where I am today. Their wishes continue to give me strength to dream 
more for the betterment of society," Dr. Samanta said in his comments.

    He was recently awarded an honorary doctorate from Birla Global University 
and also received an honorary degree from Berhampur University.

    Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1973924/KIIT_Event.jpg

    Source: KIIT