IndiaTrek Delegation Returns with Fond Memories of Odisha, KIIT and KISS

Bhubaneswar: A 38-member delegation from the City University of New York (CUNY), USA, has returned with fond memories after visiting KIIT and KISS as part of the IndiaTrek initiative under the Achyuta Samanta India Initiative, CUNY Crest Institute (ASIICCI). The delegation comprised 10 distinguished professors and 28 students from different universities.

During their 15-day stay, the delegates participated in various knowledge and cultural exchange programmes with students of KIIT and KISS. On the final day, they paid a courtesy visit to Founder Dr. Achyuta Samanta and shared their experiences at KIIT and KISS. They expressed amazement at the educational environment and infrastructure of both institutions. They also said that they would never forget the warmth, hospitality and affection extended to them during their stay. The delegates expressed their gratitude to KIIT and KISS Founder Dr. Achyuta Samanta for initiating such a unique programme.

Through the IndiaTrek initiative, KIIT and KISS have undertaken a distinctive annual effort to showcase Odisha to the global community. Participants in the programme get first-hand exposure to the culture, heritage, cuisine, traditions and major tourist destinations of Odisha. They also visit Delhi and the Taj Mahal in Agra. As they return to their respective countries, they carry with them not only memories of KIIT and KISS but also cherished experiences of Odisha and India. One of the key objectives of their visit is to learn about and gain knowledge of India, particularly Odisha, including its art, culture, heritage and socio-economic conditions.

Among others, the farewell reception was attended by Prof. Neal Hudson Phillip, Professor & Chairperson – Department of Chemistry, Earth Sciences & Environmental Sciences, Bronx Community College; Co-Director – CUNY CREST Institute’s International Partnership and Global Networking Pillar; Associate Director – Achyuta Samanta India Initiative, City University of New York (CUNY); Prof Paramita Sen, Professor in the Department of Chemistry, Earth Sciences and Environmental Sciences at Bronx Community College, City University of New York; Salil Kader, Former Advisor – Strategic Planning and Public Engagement at U.S. Consulate General, Hyderabad, independent consultant and researcher; VC, KIIT DU, Prof. Saranjit Singh; and Registrar Prof. Gyan Ranjan Mohanty.