Ms. Manita Saxena is the Principal of IPS Academy, Indore. She holds a B.Arch., an M.Arch., and a PhD degree from MANIT, Bhopal. With more than 20 years of experience, Ms. Manita has worked at various roles and different institutes, such as Women’s Polytechnic Indore, Women’s Polytechnic Bhopal, S V Polytechnic Bhopal, Saxena and Associates, and more. As a part of her efforts, she received the Best Professor Award in 2021 from IDMBA Hyderabad and the Teaching Excellence Awards in 2019 from the Srujan Teaching Excellence Award.

Ms. Saxena has published over 21 papers in her area of interest in several reputed international and national journals. She also contributes her time and efforts to several panels and organisations. Some of these memberships are, member of the Board of Studies at Sage Institute of Design; Panellist at Build Environment Education Post Pandemic Scene by RICS-Amity University Delhi, Observer for the Council of Architecture for the National Aptitude Test in Architecture; and Representative for the Council of Architecture for Inspections of Institutions.

IPS Academy, Indore

You have held key positions at education institutes throughout your professional career. What keeps you connected with the Education Sector and how has your experience been so far with the institute?

As the Head of the Architecture department, my connection with the education sector stems from my passion for teaching, learning, and fostering the growth of aspiring architects. Throughout my career, I have held key positions at educational institutes, allowing me to contribute to the development of architectural education. My experience with the institute has been rewarding. I work with a dedicated team of educators who share a vision for excellence in architectural education. Together, we create a dynamic learning environment that combines theory and practical application, preparing students for success in the field. 

The institute emphasizes industry collaboration, providing students with real-world exposure through internships and projects. We also prioritize research and innovation, encouraging students and faculty to explore new ideas and perspectives.

Working with a diverse student body and engaging in professional development activities further enriches my experience. I am committed to equipping future architects with the skills and knowledge to make a positive impact in the field.

Being the HoD– (Dept. Name) of IPS Academy what are your roles and responsibilities towards the students?

As the Principal of the School of Architecture at IPS Academy, my responsibilities include providing academic leadership by ensuring the quality and relevance of the curriculum. I mentor and guide students, offering support and counseling to help them make informed career decisions. I also focus on the professional development of faculty members, encouraging their participation in workshops and conferences. Overseeing curriculum development, I ensure it reflects industry trends and equips students with the necessary skills. I foster industry connections by inviting guest lecturers and facilitating internships to expose students to real-world scenarios. I oversee assessment and evaluation processes, ensuring fairness and transparency while also monitoring student progress. Encouraging research initiatives, promoting collaborations and conferences, and looking over publications to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in architecture are also my duties. Ultimately, my goal is to create an enriching educational environment that prepares students for successful careers in the field.

Do you have any extracurricular activities/ programs to enhance the skills of the students or expose them to the real-world challenges?

At IPS Academy, we prioritize comprehensive and industry-relevant education. We establish industry partnerships and offer internships, ensuring practical experience and staying updated with industry trends. Our faculty brings industry expertise, enhancing the learning experience. We maintain an updated curriculum that integrates emerging technologies and sustainable practices. Students engage in practical learning through design projects and workshops. We have guest lectures and workshops by industry experts to provide valuable insights. We offer professional development programs for students and faculty, along with career services and placement support. Students also participate in national activities and gain exposure through site visits and market surveys. With these initiatives, IPS Academy prepares students to excel as competent architects in a dynamic industry.

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How does the curriculum of IPS Academy ensure that the students are being prepared for the future?

IPS Academy focuses on practical and project-based learning, providing students with hands-on experience and real-world applications. The institution collaborates with industries to expose students to current industry practices. It offers internships and placement support to enhance students' practical experience and job prospects. Soft skills and professional development are also emphasized to prepare students for successful careers. Research and innovation are encouraged, allowing students to engage in projects and foster critical thinking. Our active alumni network provides ongoing support and mentorship. IPS Academy's comprehensive approach equips students with the skills, knowledge, and industry connections necessary for a successful career in architecture.

How do you try to bring in practical approach towards subjects and make it industry oriented?

As an educator in architecture, I prioritise a practical and industry-oriented approach in my teaching. This includes incorporating case studies, real-world examples, and guest lecturers to connect theoretical concepts to practical applications. I organise site visits and field trips to expose students to construction sites and architectural firms. Design projects are structured with practical constraints to develop problem-solving skills. Collaborations with industry partners provide hands-on experience and internships. I emphasise the use of industry-standard software and technology like AutoCAD and BIM. Professional development opportunities, such as workshops and conferences, are encouraged to stay updated with industry trends. Continuous engagement with the industry ensures the curriculum remains relevant. Overall, these strategies bridge the gap between academia and industry, equipping students with practical skills and knowledge to succeed in the architectural profession.

What are the interventions and approaches you bring in apart from curriculum to train/teach the students?

At IPS Academy, we prioritise providing a holistic and enriched learning experience for our architecture students. We achieve this through a combination of hands-on workshops, design studios, and real-life projects that foster creativity and problem-solving skills. Site visits and field trips expose students to practical applications of architecture and allow them to learn from experienced professionals. Guest lecturers from industry experts provide valuable insights into current trends and challenges. Collaborative projects promote interdisciplinary teamwork and diverse perspectives. We integrate advanced technologies into our curriculum, emphasising sustainability and eco-friendly design principles. Portfolio development and regular critique sessions enhance students' ability to showcase their work and receive constructive feedback. Professional practise seminars prepare students for the business aspects of architecture. Participation in exhibitions and competitions fosters recognition and networking opportunities. We also prioritise soft skill development, enabling effective communication and collaboration. Through these strategies, IPS Academy creates a dynamic learning environment that nurtures well-rounded, skilled, and future-ready architects.

What would you like people to know about your institute they may not know?

IPS Academy, located in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, is also known as the “Knowledge Village.” We have 17 colleges and over 71 multidisciplinary courses. IPS Academy, situated over 60 acres; is a 5-star GEM-rated green campus, illuminating the lives of future generations with skills, knowledge, and wisdom. It is a reputable educational institution offering a range of courses, including architecture. It is also associated with many professional bodies like the Council of Architecture, the Indian Institute of Architects, and the Indian Green Building Council. The campus also serves as a hub for research-based innovation, providing students with practical demonstrations. Continuous evaluation and feedback systems ensure that students receive the best possible learning experience.

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What do you see as the greatest strengths of IPS Academy?

Our institute is the oldest private architecture college in central India. Our President is an architect himself and thus can better understand the nuances of Architecture. Over 1600 of our students and Alumni are spread all over the world. Our campus is well maintained, and the management keeps on developing it and adding facilities for students through proper mess facilities. We have the biggest intake in Central India, and our seats always get filled up.

What are some of the biggest challenges you see, both for higher education in general and for IPS Academy specifically?

Since the students who join the institution are from varied economic and urban/rural backgrounds, the biggest challenge we face is the vast difference in their exposure, communication skills, and intellectual level. Although we try our best to get them on a level playing field, their respective paces of learning are different. The changing social, professional, technological, and educational scenario has brought to the forefront many new-age topics and globally applicable short-term courses that all students must join, Although we encourage the students to enroll in such courses through NPTEL, and ETHOS, they are unable to do so because of the shortage of time and workload of sessionals, and the curriculum from the university does not recognise or promote these courses. The admission process is also delayed because the DTE is the intermediate directorate.

Any suggestions you would like to give to the current youth and the aspiring students?

I advise students to follow their passion and continuously explore their interests within the field. Embrace lifelong learning and stay updated with industry advancements to remain relevant. It is crucial to build a strong foundation in architectural principles and technical skills. Foster creativity and critical thinking in your design approach to develop unique and innovative solutions. Gain practical experience through internships or entry-level positions to apply your knowledge in real-world settings. Networking with professionals and collaborating with peers from related disciplines can expand your horizons and open doors to new opportunities. Incorporating sustainability principles into your design practices is essential for creating environmentally conscious architecture. Remember, architecture is a rewarding field, and by following these suggestions, you can embark on a successful and fulfilling career. Good luck!