KISS Deemed to be University (KISS-DU) and the Indian Adult Education Association (IAEA) solidified a historic partnership on 17th September 2025 with the signing of an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

In his address, Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Hon’ble Founder KISS and KIIT celebrated KISS-DU as the world’s largest educational institution for indigenous populations, outlining its accomplishments. He expressed profound happiness at the partnership, stating, “This collaboration is not just an agreement; it is a sacred mission to serve the marginalized. Our combined strengths will create transformative pathways for tribal communities, aligning with the spirit of Viksit Bharat.”

Echoing this sentiment, Prof. L Raja, President of IAEA, praised KISS-DU as “one of the world’s most inclusive universities.” He declared the MoU a milestone in IAEA’s journey. “This is a move towards the goal of a Developed India by 2047”. He said, linking the partnership to Gandhian principles of community service, that the country needs more such institutions.

Mr. Suresh Khandelwal, Secretary General of IAEA, pledged unwavering support for the initiatives arising from this partnership. Dr. Rajesh, Director of IAEA, highlighted the alignment of both institutions’ visions within the framework of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, particularly in serving marginalized populations through education, health, and nutrition.

The ceremony also featured the release of the book “Sacred Groves of India: Ecology, Culture and Conservation” authored by Dr. Manoj Kumar Behera, Associate Professor at KISS-DU and Head of the Odisha Chapter of IAEA. Dr. Behera was commended for his pivotal role in coordinating the partnership.

Professor Kashinath Jena, Pro-Vice Chancellor of KISS-DU, set the tone with his welcome address, describing the MoU as an unprecedented opportunity to amplify the university’s social and community outreach.

This partnership promises to be a golden moment, harnessing the synergy of two premier institutions to build a world of equality, compassion, and hope through education. Dr. Prashanta Kumar Routray, Registrar, KISS-DU while proposing the Word of Thanks, highlighted some of the key initiatives undertaken by KISS-DU community work, project UDAY, livelihood, tribal health, education and how this MoU can play a seminal role in translating ideas into fruition.