At Apeejay Institute of Design (AID), education extends far beyond classrooms, drafting tables and creative studios. The institute firmly believes that true design education lies in nurturing individuals who are not only technically skilled and innovative, but also socially aware, emotionally intelligent and ethically grounded. With holistic development at the core of its philosophy, AID continuously strives to shape students into responsible creators capable of contributing meaningfully to society through thoughtful and impactful design.
In alignment with this vision, AID recently conducted the “Life Experience Project”, an immersive learning initiative for GDP third semester students across all specialisations. The project was designed to help students understand design through a deeply personal, emotional and human-centred perspective. Instead of limiting learning to theoretical frameworks, students were encouraged to step out into real-world environments and engage directly with people from diverse social and professional backgrounds.
As part of the project, students selected subjects from a wide range of traditional and occupational communities, including potters, cobblers, blacksmiths, and horse handlers. They conducted in-depth interactions, interviews and observations to understand the daily routines, working conditions, challenges and aspirations of these individuals. This hands-on engagement enabled students to witness first-hand the realities of occupational life and social challenges, going beyond surface-level understanding.
These experiences played a vital role in developing students’ empathy and social sensitivity. By observing real-life struggles and resilience, students began to appreciate cultural contexts, traditional skills and the human stories behind everyday professions. They learned to view design not merely as an aesthetic pursuit, but as a powerful tool for problem-solving and social transformation. The project encouraged them to question, reflect and think critically about how design can improve lives and create more inclusive solutions.
In addition to the Life Experience Project, EDD third semester students from all specialisations also undertook the “Social Concern Project”, which aimed to transform observation into action. Through this initiative, students were encouraged to position themselves as solution providers. They explored ways in which design thinking could address social issues, enhance living and working conditions, and offer practical, humane solutions for real-world problems.
Both projects collectively strengthened the bridge between learning and life at AID. They helped students move beyond conventional academic learning and develop a deeper understanding of social realities. These immersive activities shaped their values, broadened their worldview and prepared them for the responsibilities of becoming socially conscious designers.
Apeejay Institute of Design continues to set a strong example of education that goes beyond skill development. By integrating empathy, ethics and social responsibility into design education, the institute is preparing a new generation of designers who are not only creative and innovative, but also compassionate, thoughtful and committed to building a better, more inclusive world.