Om Birla Inaugurates KIIT School Of Public Policy To Enhance Governance In India

On a recent Sunday, the KIIT School of Public Policy was unveiled by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla in Bhubaneswar, marking a significant stride towards enhancing India's educational and policy-making landscape. Birla, addressing a diverse audience that included academicians, policymakers, judges, and students, highlighted the pivotal role of public policy in steering the nation's future. He underscored India's global stature as the largest democracy, where diversity is a source of strength and well-crafted public policies serve as the bedrock for a robust nation.

Birla praised the founder of KIIT and KISS, Dr. Achyuta Samanta, for his visionary leadership and commitment to the empowerment of tribal and marginalized communities. His remarks echoed the sentiment that India's democratic system, built on transparent and citizen-centric policies, is instrumental in securing a future where all stakeholders are involved, rights are equitably distributed, and accountability is upheld. The establishment of the KIIT School of Public Policy, according to Birla, is a testament to India's dedication to promoting peace and the principle of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" or "the world is one family."

Former Vice-President of Ecuador, Otto Ramon Sonnenholzner Sper, emphasized the significance of trust and respect for diversity in the formation of strong institutions. His perspective was echoed by notable speakers, including Dr. Jafar Javan, Director of the United Nations System Staff College in Turin, Italy, who regarded the school's inauguration as a milestone for KIIT and India. Javan praised Dr. Samanta for his unwavering dedication to social change and highlighted the ongoing collaboration between the UN and KIIT, including future projects like the Nelson Mandela Project for Social Change.

Leadership and Governance Insights at the Inaugural Event

The event also featured insights from Odisha's Deputy Chief Minister K V Singhdeo, who commended Dr. Samanta's contributions to education, emphasizing the essence of public policy in serving the populace over individual ambitions. The sentiment of public policy as a driver for good governance was further supported by Lok Sabha MP from Bhubaneswar, Aparajita Sarangi. She reflected on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of "minimum government and maximum governance," asserting that the right policy design can realize this vision, with the new school playing a pivotal role.

The importance of the school in shaping future leaders and fostering global knowledge was highlighted by Shombi Sharp, UN Resident Coordinator in India, and Nutan Kapoor Mahawar, Additional Secretary at the Indian Council of World Affairs. They both underscored the institution's potential in contributing to Indian governance and international relations.

Academic and Cultural Perspectives on Public Policy

Dr. Chandraprkash Dwivedi, a Padma Shri awardee and filmmaker, along with Professor Emeritus, KIIT School of Law, Dr. L N Mitra, shared their views on the essence of public policies committed to national welfare. They emphasized the school's role in crafting future policymakers destined to shape the nation's destiny.

Dr. Samanta expressed his gratitude for the recognition and support his institutions have garnered, remarking on the honor of having Speaker Om Birla visit KIIT and KISS for the second time. He reiterated his commitment to societal upliftment through education, a sentiment acknowledged by various leaders, including in Parliament.

The inauguration was attended by luminaries such as KIIT Chancellor Dr. Ashok Parija, Vice Chancellor Professor Saranjit Singh, and Akshay Mathur, Senior Director of Asia Society Policy Institute, showcasing the wide array of support and anticipation for the contributions this new school will make towards public policy and governance. The KIIT School of Public Policy, set to offer a One Year Master Programme with knowledge partners including the Indian Council of World Affairs and United Nations System Staff College, stands as a beacon of hope for developing future leaders and policymakers for a prosperous Odisha and a stronger India.