Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) Student Nominated for International Children’s Peace Prize

Sumitra Nayak, a student from Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) has been nominated for the prestigious International Children’s Peace Prize 2017 along with nine others. The nominees exhibit the quality of being change makers.

Sumitra is a Rugby player and a student of KISS who has been nominated for her rigid/ stubborn attitude towards any predicament. Even though she faced numerous hurdles along her way to KISS, she did not give up and emerged as a role model for others. In 2016, Sumitra Nayak was invited to deliver a Ted Talk in Pune.

Also Read:Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) Bags Deemed University Status

Sumitra Nayak was born in Jajpur district of Odisha and lived under acute poverty. Her father was a drunkard who used to torture her mother. When Sumitra was four years old, her mother left Jajpur and migrated to Bhubaneswar. However, Sumitra’s mother Gayathri was unable to find a suitable job in the city and worked as a house cleaner for long hours. At this time, Gayathri learnt about KISS and with an objective to give her child a better future, she enrolled Sumitra in KISS in the year 2008.

Sumitra Nayak has been able to make friends very early and developed her interest towards Rugby. She started her practice in 2009. Finally, in 2012, she was able to play her first state-level match. She also took part in U-13 World’s Rugby World Cup, National School Games and National Championship. In the Asian Girls Ruby Sevens that took place in Dubai, Sumitra and her team won the bronze medal. She also led her team to victory in Girls International Rugby Tournament that took place in London.

Also Read:KISS Students Excel in Campus Placements

Sumitra was surprised when she was nominated for the International Children’s Peace Prize 2017. She mentioned that it was Professor Achyuta Samanta – Founder of KISS, who constantly supported and motivated her. He congratulated Sumitra on her achievement and termed it as a highly proud moment for KISS.

Kids Rights Foundation will award International Children’s Peace Prize on December 4, 2017. Usually, the prize is awarded to a child who fights bravely for children’s rights.