Bhubaneswar: The World Anthropology Congress (WAC) commenced at Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences Deemed to be University (KISS-DU) here on Wednesday to mark International Day of the World’s Indigenous People.
The theme of the Congress – organised by KISS-DU in collaboration with Utkal University, Sambalpur University, University of Delhi and United Indian Anthropology Forum (UIAF) — is ‘Anthropology in the Public Sphere: Indigeneity, Social Justice, Sustainability, and Global Peace’.
Speakers highlighted the pivotal role of KISS in empowering tribal communities. “KISS is a symbol of empowerment of marginal sections of the society. It stands for world peace and tranquility,” said chief guest Prof. K K Basa, Chairman of National Monument Authority and Director of ASI.
Prof. Basa opined that anthropology gives voice to the marginalised and oppressed sections, and added that tribals have lived a life of balancing nature and indigenous culture from which mainstream society should take inspiration.
KIIT and KISS founder Dr Achyuta Samanta said that anthropology has the power to illuminate pathways towards a more equitable and harmonious global community.
“At KISS, this conviction is woven into our ethos, as we endeavour to provide indigenous communities with the reins of education and knowledge. Guided by visionaries, Professors of Practice, Tribal Advisory Council, we have committed ourselves to preserving and honouring indigenous wisdom while facilitating meaningful exchanges that nurture both tradition and progress,” said Dr Samanta.
KISS-DU Chancelloe Satya S Tripathi said that the Congress is more than a conference for KISS which is an exercise in humility and humanity.
Former Delhi University VC PC Joshi, who is also Chairman of WAC-NAAC, lauded Dr Samanta for establishing KISS, saying that thousands of tribal students are getting education because of the realisation of his dreams.