Designing Tomorrow: A Conversation with Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Vice Chancellor of World University of Design

Stepping into the dynamic world of creative education, we engage in an exclusive conversation with Dr. Sanjay Gupta, the esteemed Vice Chancellor of the World University of Design (WUD). A distinguished alumnus of IIM Ahmedabad and IIT Delhi, Dr. Gupta brings over 15 years of experience, including a significant tenure as the Dean of NIFT, Delhi. WUD, founded in 2018, has swiftly become a leading force in design education, earning accolades such as a QS I-Gauge Platinum Rating and an A+ Grade in Outcome-Based Education. Join us in this interview as we uncover Dr Gupta’s insights, unravelling the ethos and vision that make WUD a transformative centre of excellence in creative education in India.

1. What inspired the establishment of the World University of Design, and how has the institution evolved since its founding in 2018?

The establishment of the World University of Design (WUD) in 2018 was inspired by the vision of creating India’s first university dedicated to education in the creative domain. Located at Rajiv Gandhi Education City, Sonipat, Haryana, WUD emerged as a hub of educational excellence within the first year of its inception. The university focuses on accelerating the development of design in industrial and innovation activities at both regional and national levels, catering to students seeking degrees or doctorates in art and design.

In its initial year, WUD was recognized as the “Most Emerging University” by ASSOCHAM India, setting the tone for its commitment to excellence. WUD offers a wide array of design courses, making it the institution with the broadest range of design programs in India. The academic offerings span from undergraduate to doctoral levels, encompassing disciplines such as Design, Performing Arts, Architecture, Fashion, Communication, Visual Arts, and Management. The university’s extended educational portfolio includes specialized areas like animation & game design, UI/UX, film & video, built environment & habitat studies, design management, art education, and curatorial practice, among others.

WUD’s campus, situated across 12 acres of land, provides a conducive environment for students to flourish. The infrastructure includes state-of-the-art facilities such as imaging systems, CAD rooms, machine shops, maker rooms for prototyping, AR/VR labs, sound recording studios, and more. 

The university’s global perspective is evident through its international collaborations, as a member of the Erasmus Plus program of the European Union and partnerships with esteemed institutions like the University of Huddersfield, Oxford Brookes University, University of California, Berkeley, École Nationale Supérieure des Arts et Industries Textiles (ENSAIT), and Universidad De Monterrey (UDEM).

WUD’s vision centres around research and innovation, aiming to be at the forefront of creative and design education. The mission is to evolve into a centre of excellence, becoming a vibrant hub for creative education in the country. The emphasis on academic rigour, diverse collaborations, and a commitment to research and innovation underscores WUD’s evolution as a pioneering institution in the field of creative education since its establishment in 2018.

2. Can you elaborate on the university’s vision and mission, particularly in the context of creative education and its impact on the design industry in India?

In a globally competitive world, it is the quality of design education and research which makes a difference in the quality of goods and services produced in the nation-states. The university strives towards cultivating a passion for creativity through distinctive education programmes in a student–centered environment, leading to fulfilling careers as Design, Art and Architecture professionals in the emerging creative economy; while emphasizing its values and culture of inter-disciplinarity & innovation, Enterprise & entrepreneurship, Industry relevance & employability and Social responsibility & ethical professional practice. WUD intends to serve as a resource for India and beyond through research, creative endeavours, extension and outreach.

3. The World University of Design offers a diverse range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. Could you highlight some distinctive features of these programs that set them apart in the field of creative education?

The World University of Design (WUD) stands out in the field of creative education due to several distinctive features embedded in its diverse range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs:

1. Innovative Curriculum Design Integrated with Technology:
   • The curricula are designed to foster conceptual understanding, critical thinking, analytical ability, and practical approaches.
   • Regular updates and introductions of new courses, such as VR/VR, UI&UX, and BBA/MBA with majors in data analytics, artificial intelligence & design thinking, keep the programs aligned with emerging technologies.
   • AI has been introduced to WUD students since 2019 when its AI hub was inaugurated. Since then specialized seminars/ workshops have been organised for Metaverse& Chat GPT as well. Through the use of virtual reality, augmented reality, and interactive digital content, students can immerse themselves in engaging and immersive learning experiences.
   • WUD integrates ICT and technology-enabled strategies to enhance learning, introducing students to cutting-edge tools and platforms.WUD offers cutting-edge facilities, including labs in animation, AR/VR, patternmaking & sewing, rapid prototyping, and more.

2. Multidisciplinary Approach:
   • WUD believes in the horizontal nature of design cutting across all industry verticals, allowing students to choose subjects from various disciplines.
   • The multidisciplinary institution encourages diverse perspectives by involving different disciplines in illustrating themes, subjects, or issues.
   • WUD introduced the CBCS, allowing students a flexible “cafeteria” approach to taking credits across various disciplines, enhancing the adaptability of the education system.
3. Experiential Learning and Global Exposure:
   • The teaching-learning process at WUD is student-centric, involving experiential learning, participative learning, and problem-solving methodologies.
   • The university maintains a global outlook, providing international exposure through exchange programs and collaborations with universities worldwide.WUD emphasizes international exposure, sending students on exchanges to institutions in France, the UK, Canada, and the Netherlands. The university is actively involved in international programs like the Erasmus Plus programme, fostering collaborations with prestigious institutions worldwide.
4. Industry Connect and Guest Lectures:
   • WUD maintains strong ties with industries through MoUs with over 25 companies and hosting prominent speakers from various industries.
   • Guest lectures by professionals like VivekKalia (Airbus), VM Hariram, (TVS), SnehalPawar (Hyundai), Capt. Pranav(Renault), Manish Khare (Tata Motors), Prof. AGK Menon (Intach), Hari Nallan (Think Design), Nayanika Chatterjee (Model) , Payal Jain (Fashion Designer), Sudarshan Ramakrishna Chetlur (BrandTRIGGR), Ashwini Deshpande, (Elephant Design), Kundana Kumar Lal (Vitti Foundation) and Dolly Ahluwalia (Bollywood Actor, Costume Designer) enrich the learning experience for students.
5. Entrepreneurial Culture:
   • WUD encourages an entrepreneurial culture, it has established an incubation cum entrepreneurship cell and signed MoUs with institutions like IIT Delhi Atal Incubation Cell.
   • Students have been provided with a physical as well as an online outlet Kritishalato sell the products prepared for them.
   • The university fosters innovation, with over 30 student classroom projects applied for patents and design registrations.
6. Recognition of the Learning Process:
   • WUD encourages self-reflection and self-assessment, fostering a growth mindset among its students. Students are supposed to showcase their work in the form of an exhibition at the end of each module. Students display their journey of learning at the end of the programme during the graduate show.
7. Career Planning and Placement Services:
   • Career planning is integrated into the design curriculum, grooming students for professional life throughout their academic journey.
   • A dedicated Placement Cell (CAS) ensures 100% placements by mapping student skills with industry openings.
   • WUD does not chase TRENDS. In the modern era where the high-paying jobs are in UI UX Design & Service Design arena, WUD chooses not to push or force all its students to this area where jobs are easy and well-paying but not according to their choice. WUD believes it should be the choice of a student and the ability of the designer that should dictate their future. If there is a future for UI UX Design, there’s a future for TOY Designers, a motion graphics professional, a traditional fashion designer, an interior designer, a furniture designer.
8. Learner-Centric Methodologies:
   • WUD prioritizes individual student engagement, maintaining a faculty-to-student ratio of 1:15.
   • Faculty members serve as mentors, tailoring teaching strategies to accommodate diverse learning styles.
   • WUD has transformed traditional classrooms into interactive and collaborative spaces like design studios, maker spaces, and innovation labs.
   • Multi-functional and flexible areas accommodate different teaching methods, promoting active participation, creativity, and critical thinking.

4. The university emphasizes research and innovation. Can you share examples of notable research initiatives or projects undertaken by WUD that have made a positive impact on the field of design?

The World University of Design (WUD) has successfully implemented a range of research initiatives and projects, showcasing its commitment to innovation in the field of design. These endeavours have made a positive impact, contributing to advancements in design thinking, technology integration, sustainability, and social impact. The university provides financial support for all research-related activities.

Here are some notable examples of WUD’s research initiatives:

1. Collaborative Research Projects with Industry Partners:
   • WUD is a member of the Erasmus Plus Programme of the European Union. It’s the youngest university ever to be awarded the prestigious design and innovation capacity building grant under the programme. WUD, as the lead, worked with a consortium of international partner universities including Brunel University, UK; Politecnico di Milano, Italy; University of Aegean, Greece and IIITD Delhi. 
   • Through collaborative projects with industry partners, WUD has successfully addressed real-world design challenges. WUD has done consultancy work in the domain of Communication design and product range design.
   • World University of Design (WUD) collaborated with the Happy Earth Foundation to create a line of lifestyle products as a project for students. The project aimed to promote sustainable practices and the concept of recycling. The students were trained to make products using polyester industrial felt. The program aimed to reinforce the benefits of recycling and reduce waste by giving new life to used materials. The outcome of the collaboration between Happy Earth Foundation and WUD was a line of lifestyle products created by the students using used polyester industrial felt. The products included bags and planters, designed to promote sustainability.

2. Establishment of Centres of Excellence:
   • WUD has established a centre of excellence focused on specific design disciplines like CoE of rapid prototyping, CoE of AR/VR, CoE of Animation and CoE for Pattern making and draping. These centres serve as hubs for in-depth research, experimentation, and the generation of cutting-edge design concepts.

3. Research output:
   • WUD has initiated many academic/research events – the first-ever biannual International Conference on ‘Functional Textiles & Clothing’ in association with IIT Delhi, hosting scholars from all over the globe in 2018, 2020 and 2023.
   • The World University of Design hosted THE 15TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE OF THE EUROPEAN ACADEMY OF DESIGN – 2023, themed around ‘Doctoral Education in Design’. The theme, “‘What Got Us Here, Won’t Get Us There’”, reflects the conference’s commitment to advancing the discourse on the future of design education. This prestigious event was scheduled from 16th to 20th October 2023, imparting a truly global experience, taking place across multiple locations – Brazil, Finland, India, the UK, and Spain.
   • The University has launched its Journal: the International Journal of Arts Architecture & Design (JAARD) which draws its contributions from academicians, practitioners, and researchers working in the multidisciplinary fields of Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Architecture, and Design.
   • Faculty and students at WUD have actively contributed to design literature by publishing research papers in renowned journals and presenting their findings at conferences. This dissemination of knowledge contributes to both the academic community and the design industry.
   • The research output of the Art and Design faculty is not just papers but also their work which may be works of art, prototypes, designs, type forms, characters, stories, films, performances etc. The faculty and students both organize and attend/participate in exhibitions, Design camps etc.

4. Innovation in Sustainable Design and Design for Social Impact:

• World University of Design (WUD) organizes the Global Goals Jam – Service Design Jam annually in September every year. Students and professionals from all fields are invited to participate and contribute ideas towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. It is supported by the Digital Society School – Amsterdam, UNDP, and Startup India. The Global Goals Jam – Service Design Jam is a crucial initiative of WUD in India that enables individuals and organizations to contribute towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations. Through this program, WUD students and faculty members were able to come together with participants from around the world to address SDGs and create meaningful solutions for promoting peaceful and inclusive societies and building effective institutions. It’s a valuable learning experience for all involved, and WUD looks forward to continuing its support for initiatives that promote sustainable development.
• WUD has undertaken research projects with Erasmus dedicated to sustainable design practices, aiming to minimize the environmental impact of various design processes. This commitment aligns with global efforts towards sustainable and eco-friendly design solutions.
• Field studies by students are focused on demonstrating social impact. Students went to Kerela for the fabric study of coastal fishermen settlements and the need to integrate spaces for “climate refugees” in the urban plans of coastal cities. Their assignment was defining spaces for climate refugees involves creating safe and sustainable living environments for people who are forced to relocate due to the impacts of climate change. One such project was done for Rabaris in Haryana.
• WUD students have designed and prototyped a Bionic arm for the handicapped during their Graduation project.
• WUD’s research initiatives extend to using design as a powerful tool for social impact. Projects addressing social issues, community development, and inclusive design have positively influenced the lives of individuals and communities.

5. Design Thinking and Innovation / IPR Workshops:
   • WUD has been actively organizing design thinking and innovation workshops that bring together students, faculty, and industry professionals. These events have resulted in the development of novel design methodologies and effective problem-solving approaches. Apart from that IPR workshops are being organized regularly. As a result, over 30 designs and patents have come out of classroom projects and the faculty has 30 patents published.

6. Application of Emerging Technologies:
   • WUD’s research projects explore the integration of emerging technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence, to enhance different design processes. This forward-looking approach positions WUD at the forefront of technology-driven design innovation.

5. With international collaborations and exchange programs, how does the World University of Design provide students with a global perspective in their education?

The World University of Design considers international exposure as a quintessential part of design education and intends to provide abundant opportunities for its students to explore and experience the various nuances of this facet of education. Such exposure enhances a student’s personality and broadens the vision. WUD has signed MoUs with leading educational institutions across the globe to facilitate a constant exchange of students, scholars, and research topics on every subject; of students making study visits and joining immersion programmes at these universities and organizations on a short-term or periodic basis to enhance their skills and expertise. WUD has established international collaborations with leading education institutions like Vancouver Film School & Emily Carr University (Canada); University of Huddersfield & Oxford Brookes University (UK); ENSAIT and Académie Charpentier (France); University of Utrecht (Holland), HAMK (Finland) and College of Creative Studies, Michigan (USA) to facilitate a constant exchange of students, scholars, and research topics on every subject. Two batches of students have already gone on a semester exchange with these universities.

Through collaborative research initiatives like ERASMUS, WUD works with renowned institutions like Brunel University (UK), Politecnico di Milano (Italy), University of Aegean (Greece), and IIITD Delhi, WUD cultivates a diverse academic environment that broadens students’ exposure to different perspectives.

There are many other ways in which WUD takes internationalization forward –

Visiting Faculty and Experts: The university actively invites international faculty and industry experts to share their knowledge with students. Eminent scholars like Prof. Osmud Rehman from Ryerson University, Prof. Elizabeth Rose from the University of Otago, and Prof. Alessandro Biamonti from Politecnico di Milano contribute to the global viewpoint embedded in WUD’s education.

Internships and Industry Partnerships: WUD’s collaborations extend beyond academia to include international companies and organizations. These partnerships create valuable opportunities for students to undertake internships and projects abroad, gaining hands-on experience and a comprehensive understanding of global industry practices.

Cultural Exchange Events: WUD places a strong emphasis on fostering cultural exchange through events, seminars, and workshops. The university hosts prestigious international forums like the Global Goals Jam in association with UNDP and MediaLab Amsterdam, as well as engaging with Speculative Futures of the USA and Design across Cultures based in the Netherlands, involving partners from the USA, Brazil, Germany, Italy, and Korea.

6. How does WUD promote hands-on education, and what role do these facilities play in enhancing the learning journey of students?

The World University of Design (WUD) distinguishes itself by preparing students for real-world design challenges through a multifaceted approach. Its curriculum is meticulously crafted to bridge theory and practical application, emphasizing hands-on experiences, and it integrates it with industry collaborations, workshops, internships, and graduation projects, ensuring multiple exposures to real-world scenarios.

The university encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation through project-based learning, where students tackle authentic design problems, fostering creativity and out-of-the-box solutions. Moreover, WUD’s faculty comprises seasoned professionals and experts from various design domains, each with rich industry experience, offering mentorship and insights gleaned from extensive industry experience. Industry experts are involved at adjunct faculty in teaching, as jury members for critiquing and feedback, as co-guides during internships and projects, as master trainers and in multiple other ways. It is this kind of immersive and holistic approach that equips WUD students with the practical skills, industry knowledge, and adaptability needed to excel in diverse design careers upon graduation.

-Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Vice Chancellor, World University of Design (WUD), Sonipat