A Three-Day Youth Leadership Training Programme was successfully organised by the NSS Bureau, Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) Deemed to be University with the support of the State NSS Cell, Department of Higher Education, Government of Odisha from 7th to 9th March at the Auditorium, Campus–4. The programme aimed to nurture leadership qualities among National Service Scheme (NSS) volunteers, empower them with essential life skills, and strengthen their commitment to community service and nation building.
The training programme brought together 100 NSS volunteers, 10 Programme Officers and Resource persons from different institutions, creating a vibrant platform for learning, reflection, and inspiration. Through a blend of lectures, interactive sessions, demonstrations, competitions, and cultural activities, the programme emphasised the role of youth as responsible leaders and agents of social transformation.
Day–1
The programme began with an inspiring inaugural session graced by distinguished dignitaries including Professor Saranjit Singh, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, KISS Deemed to be University, Dr. Prashanta Kumar Routray, Registrar KISS-DU, Mr. Subhendu Kumar Mohanty, Additional Director Students Affairs and Dr. Ramesh Chandra Behera, OES-I, State NSS Officer (SNO)-cum-Deputy Secretary to Government, Department of Higher Education, Government of Odisha. Their presence and inspiring words set a motivating tone for the three-day training programme.
At the outset, Dr. Parikshita Khatua, Programme Coordinator, NSS, KISS DU, warmly welcomed the dignitaries and participants and highlighted the significance of leadership training in shaping socially responsible youth.
In his address, Mr. Subhendu Kumar Mohanty emphasised that leadership is rooted in vision, responsibility, integrity, and dedication to service. He encouraged the youth to develop the courage to take initiative and work collectively for the welfare of society.
Dr. Prashanta Kumar Routray, Registrar, KISS DU, spoke about the importance of such leadership programmes in nurturing confidence, critical thinking, and social awareness among young volunteers.
Delivering an inspiring keynote address, Professor Saranjit Singh, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, emphasised the importance of innovation, creativity, and start-up leadership among youth. He encouraged the students to think beyond conventional boundaries and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s progress.
In his address, Dr. Ramesh Chandra Behera, State NSS Officer, highlighted the importance of community service activities such as blood donation, plantation drives, and social awareness campaigns. He reminded the volunteers that the essence of leadership lies in serving society with empathy and commitment.
The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr. Maitree Padhi, NSS Programme Officer, KISS Deemed to be University. The technical sessions of the day began with an enlightening talk by Mr. Nirada Baran Khuntia, Former Faculty, NSS-ETI, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology. He shared valuable insights into the philosophy, objectives, and guiding values of the National Service Scheme, inspiring volunteers through meaningful anecdotes and experiences.
Speaking in turn, Dr. Chittaranjan Bhoi, Chair Professor, Dr. B.R Ambedkar Research Chair at KISS-DU, addressed the participants on the spirit of volunteerism and social commitment. He encouraged students to cultivate empathy and a deep sense of responsibility towards marginalised communities.
The first day concluded with song and folk-dance competitions, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere that celebrated the cultural diversity and creativity of the participants.
Day–2
The second day began with prayer, drill, and yoga, promoting discipline, physical well-being, and mental harmony among participants. These activities helped volunteers begin the day with renewed energy and focus. The first session was delivered by Dr. Prabhat Kumar Rout, Assistant Professor, KISS-DU, on the theme of environment and climate change. He emphasised the urgent need for environmental conservation and encouraged participants to adopt sustainable and eco-friendly practices in their daily lives.
The next session was conducted by Dr. Soumya Sonalika, Assistant Professor at Kalinga Institute of Nursing Sciences (KINS) on the topic “Say No to Tobacco.” She sensitised the volunteers about the harmful effects of tobacco consumption and motivated them to promote healthy lifestyles and preventive awareness in their communities.
An impactful session on Youth Leadership and Viksit Bharat was delivered by Mr. Ajit Khuswah, Youth Officer, National Service Scheme, Government of India. He highlighted the role of youth in achieving the vision of a developed and progressive India and introduced participants to the opportunities available through the My Bharat Portal.
In the afternoon, Mr. Pradeep Kumar Rout, Fire Safety Officer, KIIT University, conducted a hands-on training session on fire safety. Through practical demonstrations, volunteers learned essential techniques related to fire prevention, emergency response, and safety measures, making the session highly interactive and informative.
The day also included debate and poster competitions, providing participants with an opportunity to express their ideas creatively and critically. In addition, a Tribal Attire Competition was organised, where volunteers beautifully showcased the richness of indigenous traditions and cultural heritage.
The day concluded with an energetic cultural programme, strengthening the spirit of unity, enthusiasm, and camaraderie among the participants.
Day–3
The third day began with prayer followed by an energetic Zumba dance session, creating an atmosphere of enthusiasm and positivity. This was followed by a Swachhata Programme (Cleanliness drive) conducted under the leadership of Dr. Jhunubala Khuntia and Dr. Hisi Soren, Programme Officers of KISS-DU. The activity reinforced the importance of civic responsibility and collective participation in maintaining a clean and healthy environment.
The first session of the day was delivered by Dr. Raghunath Mandal, who spoke on road safety awareness. Through informative video clips and practical explanations, he highlighted important safety practices and encouraged youth to adopt responsible behaviour while travelling on roads.
This was followed by a motivational address by Dr. Smruti Ranjan Das, Liaisoning Officer, NSS, KIIT Deemed to be University, who inspired the volunteers to uphold the ideals of discipline, dedication, and service in their journey as responsible citizens.
An engaging session on “Life Skills for Youth” was conducted by Dr. Maitree Padhi, NSS Programme Officer, KISS-DU. She explained the ten core life skills, including self-awareness, empathy, communication, critical thinking, and decision-making, through interactive activities and discussions, highlighting their importance in shaping confident and responsible leaders.
Another insightful session on “Mental Health and Well-Being” was delivered by Mrs. Sunanda Mohanty, HR Manager, KISS-DU. She elaborated on the difference between mental health and well-being and discussed factors affecting mental health, along with practical strategies for stress management and emotional resilience.
After lunch, Mrs. Bedamati Pattnaik, Youth Red Cross Counsellor, KISS DU, conducted a session titled “My Plan for My Campus.” She encouraged participants to reflect on their roles and responsibilities as NSS volunteers and motivated them to work collectively towards creating a clean, inclusive, and harmonious campus environment.
Dr. Pratap Kumar Das, District Programme Officer (DPO), NSS, Kalahandi, delivered a session on leadership, emphasising the importance of teamwork, commitment, and visionary thinking in addressing social challenges.
Valedictory Session
The programme concluded with a valedictory session graced by Ms. Sarita Patel, Regional director, NSS Bhubaneswar, Dr. Chittaranjan Bhoi, Chair Professor, Dr. B.R Ambedkar Research Chair, KISS-DU, and Dr. Yasobant Das, Principal, KISS.
In his address, Dr. Chittaranjan Bhoi motivated the volunteers by drawing lessons from the spirit of teamwork demonstrated by the Indian cricket team, highlighting the importance of perseverance, unity, and determination.
Ms. Sarita Patel, Regional Director, NSS Bhubaneswar, emphasised the qualities of effective leadership and encouraged volunteers to become change-makers who inspire positive transformation in society.
Dr. Yasobant Das, Principal, KISS, concluded the programme with inspiring words explaining the true meaning of the NSS motto “Not Me, But You,” which reflects the spirit of selfless service and collective welfare.
Prizes and certificates were distributed to the winners of various competitions conducted during the programme. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr. Parikshita Khatua, followed by a vibrant cultural programme that marked a memorable end to the three-day training programme.
