The 10th Induction and Orientation Programme for the newly admitted Batch of students at the Institute of Design, Nirma University, was successfully organised on 15 July 2026. The event marked the beginning of an exciting academic journey for the students and their parents.
The programme was graced by Chief Guest and keynote Speaker Architect and industrial Designer, Chandrashekhar Wyawahare , Founder of Futuring Design Pvt. Limited, Pune. The Director General of Nirma University, Dr. Rajesh Patel and the Director of the Institute of Design, Prof. Sangita Shroff , welcomed the new cohort.
During the inaugural address, the Director, reflected on the remarkable journey of the profession globally from the classical Manufacturing Industry oriented sector to encompass multitudes of sectors such as Visual Design, Digital Product Design, User Experience Design, Smart product Design, Game Design, Design Research, Design management etc. She highlighted the evolution of the Institute from Department of Design in 2017 to its recognition as the Institute of Design in 2021, coinciding with the graduation of its first batch. She highlighted the trend of more young women students joining Design academics in recent years, as the profession has evolved to include creativity, technology and User experience.
Director General Dr. R. N. Patel, introduced the University and highlighted its commitment to academic excellence, reflected in its prestigious national accreditations and rankings, including its NAAC A+ accreditation. He spoke about the University’s continuous pursuit of quality education, the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, curriculum reforms, interdisciplinary learning through open electives, state-of-the-art laboratories, funded research projects, annual university events, and the wide range of student welfare initiatives available on campus. He encouraged the new students to make the most of the opportunities and vibrant learning environment offered by Nirma University.
The Keynote Speaker, Mr. Chandrashekhar Wyawahare, delivered a keynote address on “Design and Innovation”. He spoke about the rapid growth of the design industry and across the globe and in India, showcasing the pioneers, notable designers, leading design firms, and emphasised the importance of Ahmedabad city’s pioneer shapers for Design, Kasturbhai Lalbhai, the Sarabhai Family, NID, Ar. B V Doshi and CEPT. He inspired students to seek creativity in their surrounding context, light, colour, trees, and air- reminding them that inspiration exists everywhere. In a memorable analogy, he described the students as "rough rubies" who would be polished and shaped through their journey at the Institute and the University, revealing their true brilliance. He also left the Design student audience with a message: “Drawing is thinking, which drives change”.