The Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) Deemed to be University (KISS-DU) inked MoU with Larsen and Toubro (L&T) on 18th August 2025 in key areas of skill development.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Professor (Dr.) Debashis Bandyopadhyay, Vice Chancellor of KISS Deemed to be University, reflected on the genesis of the collaboration and its deep resonance with the national visions of Atma Nirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat. He emphasized that the partnership with Larsen & Toubro (L&T) is not merely symbolic, but a strategic step toward empowering communities through life skills and value-added training. Professor Bandyopadhyay highlighted L&T’s establishment of dedicated hubs aimed at equipping individuals with practical, hands-on training in various crafts and professions—benefiting both personal growth and national development.
He further shared that students of KISS-DU will gain access to these training centers, enabling them to acquire industry-relevant skills that enhance their employability and self-reliance. As KISS-DU places strong emphasis on skill development and capacity building, this collaboration seamlessly aligns with the university’s core mission and long-term vision. Professor Bandyopadhyay concluded by expressing optimism about the transformative impact this initiative will have on students and the broader community.
Dr. Chittaranjan Bhoi, Dean, School of Comparative Tribal Languages and Literatures, KISS-DU introduced the guests. The felicitation of the guests was followed by the MoU signing ceremony by the representatives of both the institutions. Mr. Niranjan Mishra, Advisor L&T in his deliberation talked about how L&T believes in creating employment opportunities by elevating their employability skills. The organization stands on the pillar of up-skilling, re-skilling and multi-skilling, he added. Mr. Mishra concluded by highlighting how L&T has made meaningful contributions in the lives of people through its CSR initiatives.
In his vote of thanks, Dr. Prashanta Kumar Routray, Registrar of KISS Deemed to be University, eloquently reaffirmed the university’s mission of empowering tribal communities through education and promoting sustainable livelihoods. He emphasized that the University Grants Commission (UGC) has consistently advocated for meaningful community engagement, and highlighted KISS’s pioneering initiatives in this domain as exemplary models. Dr. Routray underscored the significance of the newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), noting its alignment with national priorities such as skill development, as championed by platforms like SWAYAM. He expressed confidence that the collaboration would greatly benefit KISS students by enhancing their employability and practical competencies. Concluding his address, Dr. Routray extended heartfelt gratitude to the entire L&T delegation, all dignitaries and attendees who contributed to the success of the signing ceremony.
