Porto (Portugal): Achyuta Samanta, the founder of Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) and Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), received the FIVB Grand Cross Award, the highest accolade in volleyball today.
Samanta received the prestigious award from Dr Ary Graça, the President of FIVB during the 39th World Congress of Volleyball, held in Porto between November 15 and November 17.
Meanwhile speaking about the award, the KISS-KIIT founder, on his X-handle, said, “I feel deeply honoured and humbled to receive the prestigious FIVB Grand Cross Award, the highest accolade in volleyball, presented by Dr Ary Graça, President of FIVB, in the presence of representatives from 220 countries.”
“This award is truly special, as it is usually reserved for heads of countries and prominent personalities associated with FIVB. To receive it for my efforts in promoting volleyball and enhancing its image globally fills me with immense gratitude and pride,” he added.
“I dedicate this honour to the sports fraternity of India, particularly my home state, Odisha, and my KIIT & KISS family, whose love & support have been my greatest inspiration. At KIIT & KISS, we have always believed in the power of sports to bring change and transform lives,” Samanta said.
“Promoting sports has been a passion close to my heart, and I will continue to work tirelessly for its growth and development at all levels. My heartfelt thanks to Dr Ary Graça, Mr Fabio, and the FIVB board for this honour,” he concluded.
