Best Practice I: Using Professional Skills to Address Societal Concerns

Objectives

• To instill in students a deep sense of moral and professional responsibility towards society.

• To make students aware of the relevance of architecture beyond elite practice and in service of the community.

• To encourage empathy, compassion, and engagement through live projects and social initiatives.
   

The Context
Architecture is inseparable from society. In India, where only 5% of people commission architects and the rest build informally, it is vital for students to understand the broader responsibilities of the profession. IDEAS places strong emphasis on sensitizing students to social issues, cultural heritage, and local contexts, ensuring they connect architectural knowledge with the lived realities of communities.

The Practice

• Heritage Awareness Programs: Documentation and study of ancient monuments, community interactions, and public presentations to highlight architectural and cultural values.

• Redevelopment Projects: Involvement in urban and rural redevelopment initiatives, improving local infrastructure and lives.

• Exhibitions & Book Launches: Public exhibitions and publications showcasing students’ research on urban and rural studies.

• Craftsmen Engagement: Workshops and dialogues with local craftsmen to explore traditional materials and construction practices.

• Community Involvement: NSS and Rotract activities, student council projects, and outreach programs fostering social awareness.
   

Evidence of Success

• Enhanced student motivation through hands-on community engagement.

• Positive feedback from local communities on heritage documentation and redevelopment contributions.

• Student participation in research and live projects, contributing to societal awareness and humility in design.
   

Problems Encountered & Resources

• Difficulty in sustaining community partnerships consistently.

• Need for greater resources for exhibitions and live project documentation.

• Faculty workload in coordinating weekly/periodic initiatives.
   

Best Practice II: Paving the Way Towards Academic Excellence

Objectives

• To strengthen academic quality through national and international collaborations.

• To bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice.

• To foster a culture of innovation, research, and global exposure among students and faculty.
   

The Context
In the evolving globalized world, architectural education must prepare students not just as designers, but as researchers, innovators, and leaders. IDEAS responds to this through partnerships with eminent institutions, mentorship programs, and strong industry connections.

The Practice

• CEPT Mentorship: Selected as the first Central India institute under CEPT’s mentorship program, focusing on academic exchange and applied research.

• International Collaborations: MoU with SCI-Arc (Southern California Institute of Architecture, Los Angeles), giving students exposure to global architectural thought and practice.

• Industry Connections: Active collaborations with practicing architects and firms through internships, workshops, reviews, and guest lectures.

• Academic Enrichment: Introduction of innovative pedagogy, research projects, and interdisciplinary electives, blending theory with practice.
   

Evidence of Success

• Recognition of students and alumni in national and international competitions.

• Faculty and student participation in workshops, lectures, and collaborative projects with global experts.

• Enriched pedagogy, visible in student outputs and research contributions.
   

Problems Encountered & Resources

• Sustaining international collaborations beyond MoUs.

• Balancing academic schedules with additional exposure programs.

• Funding and logistical challenges in organizing large-scale events.