At KISS, every honour carries a story of compassion, perseverance, and social transformation. These awards not only celebrate achievement but also amplify awareness around critical global issues, promote social justice, and inspire others to serve humanity with empathy and purpose.
Known as universities of compassion and impact, KIIT and KISS believe that celebrating excellence is as important as creating it. Through various awards, both institutions recognise and honour individuals who have made extraordinary contributions in fields such as education, art, culture, literature, social work, sports, and spirituality. Each recognition embodies the values that define KIIT and KISS — inclusivity, social responsibility and compassion — inspired by their visionary founder, Prof. Achyuta Samanta.
The KISS Humanitarian Award is a prestigious international honour presented annually by KISS. Instituted in 2008, it recognizes individuals and organizations that have rendered exceptional service to humanity across the globe. It stands as a symbol of hope, compassion and altruism. It is the highest award conferred by the University.
The KISS Lifetime Achievement Award honours individuals whose lifelong commitment to social work, public service, or humanitarianism has left a profound and enduring impact on society. It is conferred selectively upon individuals whose legacy continues to inspire.
The KIIT/KISS Eminence Award celebrates distinguished leaders who have made remarkable contributions across diverse fields. It honours individuals whose eminence and vision have shaped societies and inspired future generations.
The KIIT/KISS Excellence Award is a prestigious recognition presented to young and emerging individuals who have demonstrated exceptional innovation, leadership and social impact. It honours those who, through dedication and vision, are shaping a more inclusive and compassionate world.
Each year, the award honours ten remarkable women from across diverse fields such as academia, science, technology, arts and culture, entrepreneurship, social work and sports. These women are trailblazers who have broken barriers, redefined leadership and opened new avenues for others to follow. The Woman of the Year Award stands as a symbol of empowerment, resilience and hope.
The KIIT/KISS Friendship Award celebrates the enduring relationships and unwavering support extended by friends and well-wishers. It is a symbol of gratitude and mutual respect, representing a bond that goes beyond professional association.
The Art of Giving (AOG) Heroes Award celebrates unsung heroes whose acts of kindness and selflessness embody the true spirit of giving. Each AOG Hero is honoured with a trophy, citation and cash prize, shining a light on stories of empathy, courage and generosity.
KISS has been honoured by international organizations, national governments, and global networks for its pioneering role in inclusive education, empowerment, and sustainability.
Honoured for preserving indigenous languages through the MTB-MLE programme.
Recognized for sustainability efforts in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
Recognition for being a trusted voice in global policy on indigenous and inclusive education.
Granted by the Ministry of HRD, making KISS the world's first tribal university.
Presented by the President of India to Dr. Achyuta Samanta for KISS's transformative work.
Recognition of KISS's pioneering leadership in education for tribal communities.
KISS has etched its name in history by setting multiple Guinness World Records, each celebrating the power of collective spirit and holistic education.
13,944 students led by Grammy winner Ricky Kej
26,382 students with Colgate Palmolive
25,000+ students formed "WE URGE FOR WORLD PEACE"
A joyful record-breaking moment celebrating unity
Thousands of students promoting mental wellness
430 players in a single game with FIVB Volleyball Foundation
Best University in Odisha (2019) — at the first Odisha Education Awards
Global NGO Rankings — Ranked 223rd among world's Top 500 NGOs (2016); listed again in 2019; India's Top 10 NGOs
Association with UN Department of Public Information (2016)
Energy Globe Award — Won at the 18th edition in Tehran for sustainable practices
World Children's Prize for Child Rights (2016) — Acknowledged for advancing child rights and inclusive education
Anthropology Textbook Recognition — Featured in US university textbooks Window on Humanity and Mirror for Humanity
Commonwealth Big Lunch (2018) — Organized with British Council, uniting dignitaries and 30,000 indigenous students
FIFA Football for Schools & FIVB Volleyball for Schools — South Asia hub; India's first Football for Schools launched at KISS (2022)
COVID-19 Response (2020) — Established India's first dedicated COVID hospital alongside KIIT & KIMS
Student Bravery Award — Ms. Mamta Dalai, youngest recipient of the National Bravery Award, conferred by the Prime Minister of India
United Nations Recognition (2025) — UN hailed KISS as a global leader in evidence-based, inclusive education for indigenous youth
International Higher Education Excellence Award (2025) — Conferred by RTI Institute of India on KISS-DU
