Bill Gates Receives the Prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award 2023

Renowned global philanthropist Mr. Bill Gates, Microsoft co-founder and co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, was bestowed with the KISS Humanitarian Award 2023 in recognition of his outstanding philanthropic endeavors.

The ceremony, held on February 28, 2024, in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, honored Mr. Gates for his remarkable contributions to advancing global health, education, and addressing climate change through innovative technological solutions aimed at reducing inequality.
The award ceremony witnessed virtual participation from KIIT and KISS staff, students, and alumni. A notable highlight was Mr. Gates engaging in a substantive discussion on gender equality, sparked by a question from a KISS alumna.

Prof. Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT, KISS & KIMS mentioned, "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."

During his acceptance speech, Mr. Gates conveyed profound appreciation for the honor bestowed upon him and took a moment to contemplate the impactful endeavors of Dr. Samanta and KISS. "I am truly grateful for this exceptional recognition and for the warm welcome extended to me here. However, I believe it is I who should be extending congratulations to you for all that you have achieved," remarked Mr. Gates. He commended Dr. Samanta's vision and unwavering commitment to delivering quality education to indigenous communities, underscoring the significance of civic involvement and prioritizing community-centric educational practices.

Introduced in 2008 by Prof. Achyuta Samanta, the KISS Humanitarian Award represents the highest accolade conferred by KIIT and KISS, aiming to honor individuals and entities exemplifying humanitarian ideals on a global scale. Comprising a citation scroll and a gold-plated trophy, the award is presented during a public ceremony at KISS, showcasing a profound social message. The trophy itself embodies the essence of a humanitarian, symbolized by a golden heart adorned with qualities of purity, kindness, prosperity, and hope. Depicted within the trophy is a pair of hands uplifting a heart, textured with shapes reminiscent of waving hands, signifying the transformative impact of dedicated efforts in bettering the lives of the vulnerable and fostering a more compassionate world. Past recipients of this esteemed award include an array of distinguished global leaders, Nobel laureates, and influential figures across various fields, underscoring its wide-reaching international significance and reverence.

Among those present were Minister Counsellor Graham Mayer from the US Embassy in New Delhi, Frank Talluto, Political Officer in Hyderabad, Ananth Sukesh, Political Advisor at the US Embassy in New Delhi, and Srimali Kari, Political Specialist at the US Consulate in Hyderabad.

Some notable recipients include Madam Edna Bomo Molewa, former Premier of the North-western state of South Africa; Dr. Ham-Kee-Sun, President of Hanseo University and distinguished Ophthalmologist of South Korea; Mr. Anerood Jugnauth, President of the Republic of Mauritius; Rt. Hon. Lord Justice Nicholas Addison Phillips, President of the Supreme Court of the UK; Lyonchhen Jigmiy Thinley, Prime Minister of Bhutan; Madam Albina Du Boisrouvray, Founder of FXB International, Switzerland; His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Spiritual Leader and Nobel Peace Laureate in 2005; Prof Muhammad Yunus, Founder of Grameen Bank, Bangladesh, and Nobel Peace Laureate; Mr. Dansa Kourouma, President of the National Transition Council of Guinea; and Mama Rachel Ruto, the First Lady of the Republic of Kenya.