ARCH College of Design and Business strengthens global collaborations and promotes sustainability

ARCH signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with leading industries under its Impact-Focused Entrepreneurship (IFE) program, an integral part of the Erasmus+ Co-Life project, a European Union initiative promoting innovation, education, and socio-economic development. The MoUs, signed with Jaipur Rugs, Jaipur Block, Kalpana Handmade Paper, and Neerja Pottery, aim to integrate design, innovation, and sustainability into the curriculum. This initiative prepares students to become socially responsible entrepreneurs capable of addressing real-world challenges.

The MoU signing event witnessed the participation of key industry leaders, including N.K. Chaudhary, Founder of Jaipur Rugs, and Leela Bordia of Neerja Pottery, alongside international delegates from the World Craft Council’s Asia-Pacific Region. Speaking at the event, Archana Surana, Founder and Director of ARCH College of Design and Business, stated, “These partnerships empower students to address societal and environmental challenges while fostering a culture of innovation and sustainability.”

The Erasmus+ project links ARCH with renowned institutions like Laurea University of Applied Sciences (Finland), Aarhus University (Denmark), and the Indian School of Development Management (ISDM). Together, they aim to develop advanced courses on entrepreneurship, equipping students with practical skills to tackle pressing global issues and fostering a synergy between academia and industry.

Highlighting its global reach, Archana Surana recently delivered a keynote address at the International Conference on Fashion and Sustainability, hosted by Lusófona University in Lisbon, Portugal. Her talk, titled “Responsible Fashion: Swipe Right,” emphasized the role of Indian handloom and circular fashion in addressing environmental challenges. Surana stressed how integrating traditional crafts with modern technology can reduce the global fashion industry’s carbon footprint, which contributes 10% of global emissions, while empowering local artisans economically.

At the Rajasthan Fashion Festival, Archana Surana further showcased ARCH’s leadership by chairing a panel discussion on “Jewellery as a Timeless Art: A Balance of Tradition, Fashion, and Modernity in Design.” Renowned jewellery designer Rajeev Arora of Amrapali Jewellers joined the discussion, highlighting the growing career opportunities in jewellery design. Surana remarked, “Jewellery design today transcends tradition, blending heritage, modernity, and innovation. Jaipur’s artisans have elevated this craft, making it globally renowned.”

ARCH’s dedication to sustainability extends to its campus, which incorporates solar energy conservation, water harvesting systems, and sustainable development goals into its operations. The Design Business Incubator (HubIn) at ARCH further supports students in creating innovative, design-led business models that emphasize sustainability and societal impact.

Through these collaborations and initiatives, ARCH College of Design and Business reaffirms its commitment to fostering innovation, promoting sustainability, and preparing students to become leaders in design and entrepreneurship. With over 25 years of distinction, the college has carved a niche for itself through its experiential learning model, which emphasizes hands-on projects, immersive internships, and collaborative initiatives on a global platform. This dynamic approach not only ensures academic brilliance but also prepares students to thrive in the competitive realms of design and business.

Attracting talent from all corners of India, ARCH College cultivates a vibrant and inclusive community where diverse perspectives fuel creativity and foster collaboration. With a strong focus on international exposure and strategic global alliances, the institution empowers students with a global mindset, equipping them with the skills and vision needed to excel in their professional journeys.