Philanthropist and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates was presented with the 2023 KISS Humanitarian Award on February 28, 2024 in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. As co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Mr. Gates was recognized for his groundbreaking humanitarian efforts to advance global health, education, and climate change solutions. Through developing innovative technologies aimed at reducing inequality worldwide, he has made unparalleled contributions toward progress in these critical areas. The prestigious award ceremony acknowledged Mr. Gates as a leader in using his resources and influence for the betterment of humanity.

The KISS Humanitarian Award ceremony featured virtual attendees from KIIT and KISS Bhubaneswar. A meaningful highlight occurred when a KISS alumna asked Mr. Gates about gender equality, sparking an important dialogue.

Prof. Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT, KISS & KIMS said, “Awarding Bill Gates with the KISS Humanitarian Award not only honors his exceptional contributions but also elevates the prestige of this recognition. His acceptance sets a new benchmark for humanitarian work globally. It is a profound honor for us that Bill Gates is joining the esteemed roster of our awardees.”

In his acceptance speech, Mr. Gates expressed deep gratitude for the recognition and reflected on the transformative work of Dr. Samanta and KISS. "Thank you so much for this wonderful award, and for welcoming me here. Though I should be the one congratulating you on all you have accomplished," said Mr. Gates. He lauded Dr. Samanta's vision and dedication to providing quality education to indigenous communities and highlighted the importance of civic engagement and a community-first approach to education.

Introduced in 2008 by Prof. Achyuta Samanta, the KISS Humanitarian Award represents the highest recognition from KIIT and KISS honoring humanitarian service worldwide. Recipients are presented a citation and gold-plated trophy at a KISS ceremony. The trophy symbolizes the compassion and virtue embodied in humanitarian work through iconic imagery: a pair of hands uplifting a golden heart, which is adorned with textured waves and hands. This imagery captures how even just one dedicated person can positively impact countless helpless lives. Past recipients comprise diverse, respected global leaders - from Nobel laureates to influential industry figures - reflecting the award's broad, international prestige. Over its history, the award has showcased KISS and KIIT’s commitment to celebrating those who epitomize the spirit of humanitarianism.

The ceremony welcomed distinguished guests from the U.S. Embassy in India, including Minister Counsellor Graham Mayer from New Delhi, as well as Frank Talluto, Political Officer, and Ananth Sukesh, Political Advisor, also from the New Delhi embassy. Additionally, Srimali Kari, Political Specialist from the U.S. Consulate in Hyderabad, attended the event.

The KISS Humanitarian Award has recognized various high-profile individuals over the years for their humanitarian contributions, including global leaders across diverse sectors and geographies. Notable past recipients include Madam Edna Bomo Molewa, former Premier of South Africa's North West province; Dr. Ham-Kee Sun, President of South Korea's Hanseo University and renowned ophthalmologist; Anerood Jugnauth, President of Mauritius; the Right Honorable Lord Justice Nicholas Addison Phillips, President of the UK Supreme Court; Lyonchhen Jigmi Y. Thinley, Prime Minister of Bhutan; Albina du Boisrouvray, Founder of FXB International in Switzerland; His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Nobel Peace Laureate 2005; Professor Muhammad Yunus, Nobel Peace Laureate and Founder of Bangladesh’s Grameen Bank; Dansa Kourouma, President of Guinea’s National Transition Council; and Mama Rachel Ruto, First Lady of the Republic of Kenya. This diverse representation spotlights the award’s global significance.