KIIT signs MoU with IGNCA to advance arts and cultural studies
By Chitta Ranjan Beura
Bhubaneswar, Oct 28: The Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, on Wednesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, at KIIT Campus 6. The partnership aims to strengthen studies in arts, culture and architecture, while promoting the digitisation of archival documents related to Indian history.
Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary, IGNCA, signed the MoU on behalf of IGNCA, while Prof. Saranjit Singh, Vice Chancellor, KIIT DU, signed on behalf of KIIT, in the presence of Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder, KIIT & KISS.
Speaking on the MoU, Dr. Joshi expressed gratitude for the initiative and praised KIIT’s contribution to education and cultural activities. As KIIT is one of the best institutions in India, this initiative will benefit students pursuing arts, cultural and related studies. As Odisha is known for its rich cultural heritage, this initiative will hold new projects in documenting and archiving. We also thank Dr. Samanta for his dedication and contributions to art and culture, apart from education, he said.
Prof. Soumyendu Shankar Ray, Senior Director General, KIIT said, this is a historic step in the field of cultural and art studies as it will enable exchange and research programmes for students and faculty between the two prestigious institutions.
During the ceremony, Joshi presented a copy of his book, The Cultural Renaissance, to KIIT-KISS founder Prof. Samanta to mark the occasion.
The MoU marks a step towards strengthening institutional ties and fostering greater engagement between higher education and cultural institutions, with a focus on advancing research, preserving India’s cultural heritage and creating academic opportunities in the fields of arts and culture.
The collaboration will explore joint academic programmes, research projects and other initiatives, including the digitisation of historical archival materials. These efforts are expected to contribute to the preservation, documentation and wider dissemination of India’s cultural heritage.
Among others, Dr. Abhay Mishra and Shankarjeet Dey from IGNCA; Pro-Vice-Chancellors Prof. Debashis Bandyopadhyay and Prof. Jnyana Ranjan Mohanty; and Padmashree Adwaita Gadanayak, Director General, KIIT Art Academy, were also present on the occasion.
