The Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) Deemed to be University marked World Social Work Day on March 17th 2026, with an event centered on the theme: “Co-Building Hope & Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society.” The event was organized by the Students and Scholars of the Department of Social Work under the School of Tribal Legal Studies and Tribal Rights, the gathering served as a vibrant platform for academic and practical discourse on the role of social work in fostering community resilience.
The program, held at KISS Campus 4, focused on the “Harambee” philosophy—a Swahili term meaning “all pull together”—emphasizing collective effort and community self-help. The chief speaker Dr. Pragyan Mohanty, Associate Professor and Dean, School of Tribal Legal Studies and Tribal Rights shared on how social workers can act as bridge-builders in an increasingly fragmented world, focusing on tribal rights and social legal frameworks. PG students and Ph.D. scholars showcased the next generation’s commitment to social justice and harmonious living. They made a wall magazine dynamically sharing community values and social work principles. Other faculty Mrs. Saismita Swain and Dr. Pabitra Kumar Das, Head of the Department highlighted that KISS as an institutional excellence: as an NAAC ‘A’ grade accredited institution continues to lead the way in integrating indigenous knowledge with modern social work practices. Further, they also added how KISS is a true example of hope and harmony for Indigenous youth since its inception.
The conclusion of the event left participants with a renewed sense of purpose. By focusing on “Co-Building Hope & Harmony,” KISS reinforces its mission to empower tribal communities and provide sustainable solutions to complex social issues.
