KISS Model to be replicated in Philippines: Mr. Rufus B. Rodriguez

“I shall file a bill in Congress that will mirror the noble endeavour of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) in the Philippines and establish a school dedicated to providing free education to individuals from indigenous communities in the country”, were the words of Mr. Rufus B. Rodriguez, Hon’ble Member of House of Representatives of the Philippines while he was addressing 40,000 KISS students at a special program. At this program, he mentioned being inspired by the KISS model and his resolve to bring legislation in his country to establish that model.

He expressed his admiration for the efforts of Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT & KISS, in empowering and uplifting the tribal population by providing their children with free education. He extended an invitation towards Dr. Achyuta Samanta to visit Philippines so that their proposed Institute, to be modelled after KISS, can benefit from his valuable insights.

He recalled Gandhian Philosophy of Social service and remarked that KISS is the true reflection of that philosophy. He said that KISS and Dr. Samanta are outstanding examples of selfless social service.

While he expressed his gratitude, he said that Philippines and India have shared a good bond for multiple years and noted that there were many similarities between the cultures of two countries. Within Philippines, there is a ‘State of Kalinga’ making the word ‘Kalinga’ from KIIT synonymous with Philippines itself. Dr. Samanta, while making his welcome address, talked about empowerment of tribals and realization of dreams of tribal children through yeoman services that are provided by KISS. The special program at KISS was also attended by Pro-Chancellor KISS-DU Prof. Amareshwar Galla; Vice Chancellor Prof. Deepak Kumar Behera; Registrar Dr. P. K. Routray, and other senior functionaries of KISS.