Visiting the National Institute of Design (NID) Ahmedabad, Paldi campus was an incredible experience. Sumit Sir and Ankita Ma’am joined their students in the evening, and the lush green surroundings added to the campus’s serene atmosphere. When we arrived, students were preparing for their convocation ceremony, where the President of India, Ms. Droupadi Murmu, would be the chief guest. The evenings at NID are truly special, with peacocks roaming freely, making them an integral part of the campus life.
We met few of our students during our visit, including Suyash Sharma, who is pursuing animation, Iris Mann, a master’s student in ceramics, and Gagan Tomar and Nandini Sand, who are in their foundation year. The next day, we visited the Gandhinagar campus and interacted with more students pursuing their master’s degrees there. Returning to the Ahmedabad campus, it was evident that NID offers everything a design student could dream of—well-equipped design labs, modern classrooms, a sports field, an incubation center, hostels, and a vibrant cafeteria. Suyash gave us a tour of his animation labs, and thanks to Iris, we also explored the ceramic lab. One of the most popular spots on campus is the open-air cafeteria, widely known as BMW Café, where students love to hang out.
NID's Teaching Methodology and Notable Alumni
NID follows a unique, hands-on teaching methodology that emphasizes design thinking, innovation, and practical learning. The curriculum is structured around real-world projects, industry collaborations, and interdisciplinary learning. Students are encouraged to experiment with different materials and techniques, ensuring that their creative potential is fully explored. The institute fosters a culture of self-learning, where students work on live projects and gain exposure through internships with leading design firms. The faculty comprises industry experts and seasoned designers who mentor students to think beyond conventional boundaries.
NID has produced some of the most renowned designers in India and globally. Some notable alumni include Prasoon Pandey, a well-known ad filmmaker; Imran Qureshi, a celebrated artist; and Arunima Sharma, a prominent industrial designer. These graduates have made significant contributions to their respective fields, elevating the reputation of NID as a premier design institute.
NIDUS – The In-House Store
One of the hidden gems inside the NID campus is its in-house store, NIDUS. This store showcases and sells handcrafted products created by students and artisans. From beautifully designed ceramics and textiles to innovative home decor items and stationery, NIDUS serves as a platform for students to display their creativity and for visitors to take home unique, high-quality handcrafted pieces. It is an excellent initiative that supports young designers and promotes the idea of sustainable and handmade products.
