A day at Flame University , Pune

We recently had the incredible opportunity to be part of a two-day immersive experience program at FLAME University, Pune, where we proudly represented the career of design from New Delhi, alongside Sumit Saurabh & Ms.Ankita Kochhar.

Sumit Saurabh & Ankita Kochhar at the Flames auditorium

The event was nothing short of enlightening, offering us a rare platform to engage deeply with some of the most esteemed minds in education and career counseling from across India. It was a journey of learning, inspiration, and meaningful conversations, all set against the backdrop of one of the most beautiful university campuses we have ever visited.

From the very beginning, the program was curated to offer maximum exposure and interaction. We had the privilege of meeting and exchanging ideas with heads of various academic departments, principals of top schools from all over India, and career counselors representing a diverse range of fields. These were individuals who are at the forefront of shaping the future of education in India, and having candid conversations with them was truly enriching.

Their insights into the evolving landscape of education, career choices, and the growing importance of interdisciplinary learning resonated deeply with me as a designer and educator.

One of the standout sessions of the program was led by Prof. Dr. Amit Kundal. His lecture was not only intellectually stimulating but also personally inspiring. Dr. Kundal’s ability to weave complex ideas into accessible narratives made the session particularly memorable. He spoke about the future of design, innovation, and the importance of integrating emotional intelligence with technical skills—a philosophy that aligns closely with my own vision of design education. His session reaffirmed the belief that design is not just about creating products, but about crafting experiences and solutions that resonate with human needs and emotions.

Another significant highlight was our meeting with Ms. Anju Deoskar, Director of Outreach at FLAME University. Ms. Deoskar’s energy and commitment to building a vibrant academic community were truly inspiring. Our conversation with her offered profound insights into how FLAME University approaches holistic education, and how they aim to bridge the gap between traditional academia and the demands of the modern professional world. Her emphasis on outreach and community engagement left a lasting impression on me, reinforcing the idea that education must extend beyond classrooms and into the real world.

I would be remiss if we didn’t mention the incredible hospitality extended to us throughout the program. A special thanks to Nishant Kumar, whose warmth, meticulous organization, and engaging campus tour made the entire experience seamless and welcoming. The attention to detail in hosting us, from thoughtful session planning to the personalized campus tour, reflected the ethos of FLAME University—an institution that genuinely cares about the experiences of its visitors, students, and guests.

Speaking of the campus, it deserves special mention. Nestled amidst the serene surroundings of Pune, FLAME University's campus is a testament to thoughtful architecture and environmental harmony. The design of the campus is such that it fosters intellectual curiosity and creativity at every turn. Wide open spaces, thoughtfully designed academic blocks, vibrant common areas, and the blending of nature with infrastructure create an environment that naturally encourages dialogue, reflection, and innovation. Walking through the campus was like moving through a living, breathing embodiment of the university’s philosophy—where education is not confined to lecture halls but thrives in every conversation under a tree, every spontaneous discussion in an open courtyard, and every solitary moment of thought by a serene waterbody.

​FLAME University in Pune offers a distinctive Bachelor of Design (B.Des.) program with a major in Experience Design, seamlessly integrating liberal education with design thinking to cultivate creative leaders and critical thinkers. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through real-world projects, internships, and workshops led by industry experts, preparing students for diverse career opportunities. Students engage in courses such as Design Thinking and Process, Basics of UX Design, Interaction Design, and Service Design, among others. The program also offers minors in areas like Psychology, Entrepreneurship, Business Analytics, Marketing, and Literary and Cultural Studies, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests. With a focus on interdisciplinary learning, FLAME's design program equips students with the skills and knowledge to design impactful solutions that resonate with users. 

Beyond the sessions and meetings, what truly made this event special was the spirit of collaboration and learning. This program was not merely about networking in the conventional sense; it was about expanding our horizons, challenging our assumptions, and reimagining the future of education and careers. The cross-pollination of ideas from different fields—be it science, arts, design, or business—emphasised the increasingly interdisciplinary nature of learning today. It became evident that to prepare students for an unpredictable future, educators and counselors must work together across traditional boundaries.

Conversations with peers from different cities and disciplines were equally illuminating. Listening to the experiences of career counselors from rural schools, principals of urban high-achieving institutions, and heads of emerging academic departments revealed a rich tapestry of educational journeys and aspirations across India. It was heartening to see a shared commitment towards nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and resilience among the next generation of students.

Personally, this experience deepened my conviction about the power of design thinking—not just as a professional discipline but as a way of life. The sessions, interactions, and environment all pointed towards a future where adaptability, innovation, and empathy would be the key skills required across all fields. Design, with its inherent emphasis on human-centered problem-solving, is poised to play a crucial role in this evolving landscape.

As we left the campus at the end of the two days, we carried with me not just a notebook full of ideas but also a heart full of inspiration. The program at FLAME University reaffirmed my belief in the transformative power of education and community. It reminded me that as educators, counselors, and designers, we are not just guiding students towards careers—we are helping them shape futures filled with purpose, creativity, and meaning.

Being a part of this immersive program was a profoundly rewarding experience. We are deeply grateful to FLAME University for the opportunity and to everyone who made these two days so memorable. This event has left an indelible mark on my journey, and I am excited to carry forward the insights and energy it has given me into my future endeavors.