Bridging Cultures: New York’s CUNY Establishes India-Focused Research Institute

Historic Recognition: CUNY Names Research Centre After Dr Achyuta Samanta

Indian culture, renowned for its rich heritage, diversity, and deep-rooted traditions, has long fascinated scholars worldwide. With its ancient philosophies, vibrant festivals, expressive arts, and profound literary works, India embodies a strong sense of identity, resilience, and communal harmony that continues to influence global discourse.

In a historic recognition of Indian academic contributions, the City University of New York (CUNY) has honoured Dr Achyuta Samanta, a distinguished Indian educationist, by naming a new research institute after him. This landmark achievement, reportedly the first of its kind for an Indian in the United States, underscores the impact of education in fostering international respect and collaboration. Held in New York, the event highlights Dr Samanta’s dedication to academia and his commitment to empowering communities through knowledge and innovation. The newly established Achyuta Samanta India Initiative CUNY Crest Institute aims to explore Indian culture, with a particular focus on the lives of tribal communities in Odisha. By offering American students an opportunity to engage with India's cultural depth, the institute seeks to demonstrate how strong foundational values shape both personal and societal transformation.

The inspiration for this initiative reportedly stemmed from Dr Milton Santiago, President of Bronx Community College, following his visit to KIIT and KISS in Bhubaneswar. Moved by the sight of thousands of tribal children receiving education and care, he believed the global academic community could learn from Dr Samanta’s compassionate education model. At the same event, Dr Samanta received the prestigious Presidential Medal, CUNY’s highest honour. Observers noted that this award recognised not only his contributions but also the resilience of tribal children in Odisha, who chose education over hardship. Dr Samanta’s journey from a humble village in Odisha to founding KIIT and KISS was also celebrated at the event. Having lost his father at an early age, he was raised by his mother in difficult conditions. His unwavering belief in education is credited with transforming thousands of young lives, underscoring its role as a catalyst for change.

Commentators noted that the naming of the research centre creates a symbolic bridge between Odisha’s tribal communities and New York’s academic institutions. It is expected to help U.S. students gain a deeper understanding of Indian traditions, values, and culture, fostering global appreciation and intercultural dialogue. At KISS, tribal students receive free education, meals, and care, alongside training in sports, cultural exposure, and value-based learning. This holistic education model has garnered international recognition, prompting the CUNY institute to explore ways it can be adapted globally.

During the inauguration of the Achyuta Samanta India Initiative at CUNY, Dr Samanta expressed deep gratitude, stating that this recognition belonged not just to him but to the people of Odisha, tribal children who placed their faith in education, and the KIIT-KISS community that brought the vision to life. He described the honour as a moment of national pride for India, emphasising that it signals the world’s acknowledgement of what is possible when education is treated as a mission rather than a privilege.

Commentators highlighted that this honour represents India’s global identity, not only through technological or economic achievements but through human stories. They noted that figures like Dr Achyuta Samanta exemplify how compassion and educational empowerment are vital contributions India offers to the world. Dr Samanta asserted that the Presidential Medal was not the culmination of his work, but rather a reminder of the road ahead. Reiterating his belief that education should be a fundamental right, not a privilege, he emphasised that his journey, from a modest mud hut in Odisha to international recognition, would continue to inspire future generations. This remarkable recognition serves as a testament to the transformative power of education, reinforcing the notion that knowledge and compassion can drive meaningful global change.

Editor's Note:

The recognition of Dr Achyuta Samanta by the City University of New York (CUNY) is not merely an individual achievement but a powerful statement about the global impact of education. For too long, international academic honours have largely been reserved for technological advancements or economic successes, yet this moment shines a well-deserved spotlight on human stories, of perseverance, inclusivity, and the transformative power of education. By naming a research institute after him, CUNY has acknowledged that knowledge, when wielded with compassion, can reshape lives and societies. More importantly, this event serves as a wake-up call to institutions worldwide, education should not be seen merely as an intellectual pursuit but as a force for real change. Dr Samanta’s journey, from a humble background in Odisha to an internationally recognised educationist, stands as a testament to what vision and determination can accomplish. It is time for educational policies and institutions to focus less on privilege and more on accessibility, ensuring that education remains a right, not a luxury.

Skoobuzz underlines that Dr. Samanta’s recognition is not just a tribute; it is a challenge to the world to redefine the purpose of education.