Anant National University: Pioneering Design Education in India

Established in 2016 by the Laxman Gyanpith Trust, the Ahmedabad-based Anant National University has carved a niche for itself as India’s first DesignX University. The institution is committed to nurturing a new generation of leaders equipped to tackle global challenges with innovative solutions. Named in honour of Shri Anantrao Kale (1917-1990), a prominent engineer and educationist, Anant National University is helmed by Mr Ajay Piramal (President) and Dr Anunaya Chaubey (Provost). Driven by its mission to revolutionise design education, the university integrates advanced technology with traditional knowledge to empower students to become “solutionaries” – revolutionary thinkers with a solution-oriented mindset, equipped with adept problem-solving skills.

“At Anant, our aim is to prepare students to address the world’s most pressing challenges with innovative and sustainable solutions,” says Dr Anunaya Chaubey, Provost, Anant National University.

With a PhD in English Literature from Patna University, Dr Chaubey brings two decades of academic experience and artistic expertise to his role. As a distinguished educator and artist, Dr Chaubey has been pivotal in shaping the University’s interdisciplinary approach. Under his guidance, Anant has embraced an education model that combines creativity, critical thinking and empathy. His vision ensures that the university remains at the forefront of design education, both in India and globally.

Revolutionising Education Through DesignX

Anant National University has redefined the educational landscape with its unique DesignX methodology – an approach that blends design thinking with insights from diverse disciplines such as history, sociology, biomimicry, artificial intelligence and environmental science. By integrating these diverse fields, the university equips students with the tools needed to approach problems holistically and create impactful solutions.

Anant offers multidisciplinary undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes in design, architecture, visual arts and climate action. These programmes emphasise sustainability and real-world problem-solving. A studio-based learning approach, complemented by robust community engagement, allows students to gain hands-on experience addressing complex challenges.

“Our students are changemakers,” says Dr Chaubey. “Through our unique pedagogy, we empower them to think critically, innovate fearlessly and act responsibly for a better tomorrow.”

Faculty Excellence and Development

Anant National University takes pride in its diverse and accomplished faculty. The institution employs 257 educators from various academic and professional backgrounds, ensuring students receive a rich and multifaceted learning experience. Faculty development is a priority, with the university investing heavily in faculty development through workshops, collaborative projects and training programmes. This focus ensures that educators remain at the forefront of global trends in design and education and are empowered to deliver an exceptional learning experience.

Holistic Development Through Sports and Co-Curricular Education

Believing in the importance of holistic development, Anant National University offers a wide range of sports and co-curricular activities. State-of-the-art sports facilities and vibrant student clubs create a dynamic campus culture that encourages teamwork, creativity and physical fitness. From art exhibitions and cultural festivals to sports tournaments and community outreach programmes, students at Anant enjoy a balanced and enriching campus life.

State-of-the-Art Infrastructure

Spread over a sprawling 78-acre campus on the outskirts of Ahmedabad, Anant National University offers a serene and inspiring environment for learning. Designed by renowned architects, the campus is a seamless blend of nature and cutting-edge urban infrastructure. The academic block, a recipient of multiple architectural awards, is equipped with advanced facilities such as AR-VR labs, robotics hubs, climate labs, and collaborative workspaces.

Specialised labs like FutureShift and Makerspace provide students with access to emerging technologies, fostering innovation and experimentation. A picturesque lake, a vibrant amphitheatre and thoughtfully designed collaborative spaces enhance the overall learning experience. To provide the best-in-class learning experience to its students, Anant is expanding its existing infrastructure exponentially with the addition of four academic blocks, including a 25,000 sq m Learning and Designing Hub. What makes this expansion unique is the involvement of some of the world’s most renowned architects, including BV Doshi/Rajeev Kathpalia, Rahul Mehrotra, Sasaki, Vijay Aarya, Hafeez Contractor, Aniket Bhagwat and Bimal Patel. No other university in India has brought together multiple renowned star architects to collaboratively design a cohesive, expansive campus.

Impressive Alumni Network

In less than a decade since its inception, Anant National University has built a reputation for excellence in design education. The university boasts an alumni network of over 1,400 students from 254 cities across India and 40 countries. Anant graduates have excelled in fields ranging from architecture to sustainable fashion, upholding the institution’s mission of creating impactful solutions.

The success stories of its alumni are a testament to the university’s transformative education model. From pioneering sustainable architectural projects to launching innovative start-ups, Anant graduates are making significant contributions to their industries and communities.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Anant National University is poised to expand its offerings and strengthen its impact. Anant is working on integrating recommendations by the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 to enhance interdisciplinary learning, launching new programmes that address emerging global challenges, and forging stronger industry collaborations.

The university aims to create an ecosystem where innovation thrives, preparing students to become global leaders in sustainable design and technology.

“Our focus is on building an institution that imparts knowledge and inspires students to reimagine the future. By integrating technology, sustainability and creativity in our pedagogy, we aim to redefine the role of education in addressing the world’s most pressing issues,” says Dr Chaubey.