Mumbai : Vivekanand Education Society’s College of Architecture (VESCOA) recently concluded a dynamic three-day learning program focused on Ecological Urbanism and Sustainable Urban Futures, bringing together over 400 architecture students and industry experts to explore India’s pressing urban-environmental challenges through immersive field experiences and interdisciplinary dialogue.
Curated by Principal Dr. Prof. Anand Achari, the program featured hands-on field visits to key ecological zones across Mumbai, including the Airoli and Nerul mangroves, Maharashtra Nature Park, and Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Led by 20 subject matter experts, these excursions offered students direct exposure to biodiverse landscapes and real-world case studies in ecological planning, conservation, and resource management.
The field component was followed by a two-day conclave titled “Urban Living in Equilibrium with Nature in the City,” organised in collaboration with esteemed institutions including the Indian Institute of Architects (IIA), Maharashtra Association of Schools of Architecture (MASA), Indian Society of Landscape Architects (ISOLA), Institute of Urban Designers India (IUDI), and the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC). 15 national speakers with 2 international speakers presented their approach to the theme of ecological urbanism in 4 different sessions. The conclave facilitated rich discussions on integrating sustainability into both architectural education and professional practice, with a focus on climate resilience and ecological responsibility.
“Twelve curated field visits across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region allowed our students to learn directly from nature. At VESCOA, we believe true learning happens beyond the classroom. This program was designed to place students in the very ecosystems they will one day influence, encouraging a design approach grounded in coexistence, sustainability, and climate consciousness,” said Dr. Prof. Anand Achari, Principal, VESCOA.
The initiative served as a bridge between academia and the profession, fostering a deeper understanding of Ecological Urbanism among future architects. It encouraged students to develop climate-sensitive design solutions while engaging with experts who are actively shaping India’s urban future.
Through its unique blend of field immersion and thought leadership, this program reaffirmed VESCOA’s commitment to embedding ecological values at the heart of architectural education and preparing students to lead the way in building sustainable cities.
