New Delhi, India: The Indian Institute of Art & Design (IIAD) proudly welcomed its tenth batch for 2024 with a vibrant Orientation Day at the Arya Auditorium, East of Kailash, New Delhi. The event marked a significant milestone for IIAD, celebrating a decade of excellence in education and the start of a transformative journey for its new cohort. Gracing the occasion as Chief Guest was Ms. Lily Pandeya, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and she was joined by Shri Shah Faesal, Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, as an esteemed guest.

In her inspiring address to the batch, Ms. Pandeya stated, “The future of design is in your hands, and I have no doubt that you will shape it in ways we can’t even imagine.” Acknowledging the visionary leadership of IIAD, she highlighted the institute’s decade of accomplishments and the potential of its students to become future leaders in India’s creative economy.

Ms. Lily Pandeya emphasised the broader impact of design, stating, “Design is not merely about aesthetics or utility. It is a powerful cultural force that shapes our experiences, behaviors, and identities.” She also stressed the importance of collaboration, adding, “Great breakthroughs happen, but they don’t happen in isolation. They thrive on collaboration.”

The day began with the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, followed by a reflective address by Dr. Jitin Chadha, who commemorated IIAD’s decade-long achievements and challenges. “Our students’ ability to excel in national and international competitions is a testament to our robust education framework,” he highlighted. Dr. Chadha opted for a heartfelt and evocative address, reading from the New York Times bestseller, What the Road Said by Cleo Wade, emphasising that every step, challenge, and triumph contributes to shaping a unique identity and impact.

Shri Shah Faesal, Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, shared his insights on new beginnings, drawing parallels between the students’ journeys and his own. He highlighted the importance of ancient wisdom in modern design education, citing Eklavya and Jabala as examples of self-directed learning and innovation. Shri Faesal urged students to balance technological advancements with ecological and social values, emphasising the pursuit of knowledge and community.

Prof. Usha Nehru Patel, Director-Academics, IIAD, addressed the gathering, focusing on aligning technological advancements with ecological balance. “Education empowers us to navigate and shape our future, but it must be coupled with a deep respect for our environment,” she emphasised, narrating a Zen story to illustrate her point about balancing technological progress with environmental stewardship.

The orientation event included a comprehensive digital presentation that introduced new students to each department. Faculty members from every department introduced themselves to students and their parents, providing valuable insights into the diverse academic offerings.

Ms. Simrat Joshi, Chief Operating Officer of IIAD, delivered an engaging presentation showcasing the institute’s cutting-edge facilities and state-of-the-art resources, underscoring IIAD’s commitment to providing an enriching educational experience.

The day concluded with a high tea, where students, parents, faculty, and dignitaries mingled, fostering a warm sense of fellowship within the IIAD family. This year’s diverse student body, hailing from cities across India, underscores IIAD’s remarkable growth over the past decade. In just ten years, the institute has emerged as a leading force in the design landscape, reflecting a growing appreciation and demand for design education. The enthusiastic participation of students and their families in choosing design and management as career paths underscores the institution’s significant role in shaping India’s design future.