Jeypore, Koraput – The district of Koraput witnessed spirited participation in the ‘Mini Marathon for Education for All’, organized by the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) and KIIT, as part of a national initiative to promote inclusive education.
The marathon was officially flagged off by Superintendent of Police Abhinav Sonkar from the Police Parade Ground, with the route stretching along National Highway 26 and culminating at Women’s College, Jeypore.
The event drew wide community involvement, including students from schools and colleges, intellectuals, journalists, police officers, government officials, and hundreds of local citizens — all united by a shared vision of accessible education for every child.
Following the marathon, a discussion forum was held at the Women’s College, focused on the theme “Education for All.” The session was chaired by senior journalist Kirtichandra Sahu, who emphasized the importance of education in social transformation.
Somnath Pradhan, Additional District Magistrate, graced the event as the Chief Guest. Other notable dignitaries included Additional SP Balabhadra Deep, Koraput Sub-Collector Benudhar Sabar, and Professor Rabi Shatapathy.
Also present on stage were Sunita Muduli, President of the KISS Parents’ Association (Koraput), Parshuram Samartha, and Bhavani Shankar Mishra, President of the Koraput Press Club. The guests commended Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KISS and KIIT, for his selfless dedication to uplifting marginalized communities through education.
In their addresses, speakers urged students to strive not only for academic excellence but also to grow into compassionate and cultured individuals. They encouraged the youth to emulate Dr. Samanta’s example by committing themselves to social service and becoming change-makers in their communities.
As a gesture of appreciation, the KISS Parents’ Association presented mementos to the invited guests. The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Manas Mahanti, Koraput District Coordinator for KISS, who acknowledged the contributions of all participants and dignitaries in making the event a success.