KIIT University, founded in 1992 by educationist and social entrepreneur Dr. Achyuta Samanta is making waves in the Indian educational landscape. The university has grown into a multidisciplinary institution with a global reputation, blending academic excellence with career readiness, innovation and social responsibility. “Back in 1992, we started with almost nothing. Just a vision to create an institution that could truly make a difference,” Achyuta Samanta, founder, KIIT University, said.
The university claims to have partnerships with industry leaders like LTI Mindtree and L&T EduTech. These partnerships ensure that students graduate with more than just theoretical knowledge. “We are not just teaching concepts; we are preparing professionals. Companies today are looking for graduates who can adapt, innovate, and lead—and that’s exactly what we cultivate here,” Saranjit Singh, Vice Chancellor, KIIT, said.
The Konfidant programme, one of KIIT’s flagship initiatives, aims to pair students with corporate mentors who guide them through the nuances of industry expectations and career development. “The industry-academia connect at KSOM is commendable. Programmes like Konfidant and industry conclaves helped bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and corporate realities,” Nazia Firdaus, an MBA graduate from the 2019-21 batch, stated.
Where talent meets opportunity
The institution further claims that more than 700 companies have visited the campus in 2024 and extended more than 4,500 offers. “The highest package this year touched Rs 63 lakh per annum. But beyond numbers, we take pride in the fact that our graduates are truly job-ready,” Singh added.
Interestingly, the university has ranked 11th in India and 168th globally in the Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2024. “Our partnerships with over 200 international universities offer students global exposure through exchange programs and collaborative research,” Singh explains.
Education for all
Beyond academics, KIIT’s heart lies in its commitment to social change. The Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), also founded by Dr. Samanta, is a residential school for tribal children, providing free education, boarding, and healthcare to nearly 40,000 students. “Education is the most powerful tool for social transformation,” Samanta asserts. “KISS is a model for inclusive education and sustainable development.”
Sustainability is another core principle at KIIT. The university’s green initiatives, from solar power projects to zero-waste management, set a precedent for eco-friendly campuses in India.