Pune’s Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Architecture collaborates with Liverpool John Moores University, UK and industry partners for ‘Employers Day’
Pune (Voice News Service): Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Architecture for Women (BNCA) in Pune took a significant step in bridging the gap between academic knowledge and the practical needs of the architecture and construction industry on October 12, 2023,. In collaboration with the British Council, this pioneering initiative, known as Employers’ Day,’ brought together 73 aspiring architects and civil engineers with industry leaders from ten renowned companies.
The event began with a guidance session that aimed to prepare students for interviews and offer insights into training and employment opportunities. Following this, students had the opportunity to interview with ten distinguished companies actively engaged in the construction and architecture sector. The day was marked by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between BNCA, and the participating companies, solidifying their commitment to providing training and job opportunities to the students.
Dr. Anurag Kashyap, Principal of BNCA, expressed the significance of the initiative, stating that it seeks to bridge the divide between classroom education and the dynamic needs of the architecture and construction sector. The MoU encompasses key aspects of research, training, suitable employment prospects, work experience, and practical field study.
Notably, over 50 female students participated in the event, underscoring the importance of diversity and gender inclusivity in these sectors.
Among the dignitaries present were Dr. Vaishali Anagal, the project head, Vice Principal Dr. Sharvey Dhongde, and Professors Sujata Karve, Saurabh Marathe, Pooja Ghorpade, and Kanchan Atnurkar. Dr. Vaishali Anagal shared insights into ongoing research projects and the features of the syllabus being prepared for postgraduate courses. She emphasized that the primary objective of this endeavour is to provide aspiring architects with a deep understanding of current industry trends and the array of career opportunities available to them. The ‘Employes’ Day’ event was organized under the British Council’s ‘Going Global Partnership Programme’ in collaboration with John Moores University, England, BNCA, Pune Construction and Engineering Research Foundation, and Rohan Developers Private Limited.
Distinguished speakers at the event included Dr. Andrew Ross, Honorary Professor of John Moores University, who discussed the impact of international collaboration in the educational sphere and the benefits of construction training from British universities. Rajesh Choudhary, Vice President of CREDAI, shed light on the real challenges faced by developers in the construction sector and the knowledge and competitive requirements needed to overcome them. Architect Vinayak Thorat, head of the Western Division at Venkataraman Associates, presented unique construction projects and addressed design challenges in architecture, as well as the technical components of the construction sector. Dr. Anupa Maneva, the project leader and a professor at Liverpool John Moores University, along with Prof. Dr. Mohan Sriwardhana, a senior professor at the same university, joined the program in virtual connection. More than a hundred students from various colleges in Pune had the opportunity to hear from leaders in the field.
Dr. Andrew Ross stressed the impact of educational collaboration, particularly with institutions in England. He explained the benefits of construction training from universities in England and the need for coordinated research in the industry. Rajesh Chaudhary focused on the real challenges faced by developers and the competitive requirements necessary to succeed. Architect Vinayak Thorat discussed design challenges and the integration of technical components in the construction sector.
The ‘Employers Day’ event was a remarkable step forward in creating a symbiotic relationship between academia and industry, equipping aspiring architects with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities they need for successful careers in the field. It exemplifies the commitment of BNCA, Liverpool John Moores University, the British Council, and industry leaders to the development and growth of the architecture and construction sector.
