Historic Moment: CUNY Establishes the Achyuta Samanta India Initiative Research Institute

Historic Launch at CUNY: The Achyuta Samanta India Initiative

In a groundbreaking move, the City University of New York (CUNY) has established the Achyuta Samanta India Initiative CUNY Crest Institute (ASIICCI), named in honor of the esteemed Indian educator and social reformer, Dr. Achyuta Samanta. This historic development not only underscores a moment of pride for India but particularly for the state of Odisha, highlighting Dr. Samanta's contributions and vision for education and community development.

The inauguration took place in the presence of distinguished academics and dignitaries from across the United States, symbolizing a significant acknowledgment of Indian cultural heritage within a prominent American institution. This marks the very first instance of an American research center being named after an Indian, a testament to Dr. Samanta's impact and legacy.

Dr. Samanta, who founded the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) and Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), expressed his gratitude on this momentous occasion. He stated, "This recognition is not just for me but a proud moment for Odisha, KIIT, and KISS. It reflects the rich cultural and educational contributions of our community."

The new institute aims to provide American students with insights into Odisha's rich artistic and cultural narratives while focusing on the socio-economic development of tribal communities in India. Dr. Samanta's innovative educational models have positively impacted over 80,000 tribal children, offering them opportunities for quality education and empowerment.

During the event, Dr. Milton Santiago, President of Bronx Community College at CUNY, highlighted how the Achyuta Samanta India Initiative will enable students from diverse backgrounds to understand and explore India's tribal communities, cultural roots, and one of the most effective educational frameworks worldwide.

This initiative sprouted from Dr. Santiago's recent visit to KIIT and KISS. Profoundly inspired by Dr. Samanta’s vision and his work in education, Santiago proposed the idea of naming a research institute after him, which received unanimous support from the university administration.

CUNY, established 175 years ago, represents a revered public university system in the United States, encompassing 25 colleges and serving over 300,000 students from 122 countries. By founding the ASIICCI, CUNY recognizes the global relevance of Dr. Samanta's vision and Odisha's intellectual contributions.

Furthermore, Dr. Samanta was awarded the prestigious Presidential Medal during the ceremony, a testament to his exceptional influence and transformative contributions to education and humanitarian service. This accolade places him among individuals whose work has profoundly influenced the world.

As Dr. Samanta concluded his address, he expressed his hope that the newly formed institute would enhance research and appreciation of Odisha's vibrant arts, literature, and culture, as well as his ongoing efforts to uplift educational standards within tribal communities.

This remarkable initiative not only celebrates Dr. Samanta's legacy but also serves as a bridge between cultures, fostering mutual understanding and respect through education. The establishment of the Achyuta Samanta India Initiative at CUNY is a defining moment in showcasing the global impact of Indian leaders in education and social reform.