Urmi’s Art Forum Positions Design Education for the Future Through UAF Expo

Urmi’s Art Forum successfully hosted the UAF Expo – Next in Design Futures in Mumbai, creating a platform dedicated to examining the evolving role of design education in a rapidly changing world. The expo brought together students, academic institutions, and educators to engage with emerging ideas, innovation-led learning, and future-ready design practices.

The event was inaugurated by the Honourable Minister of Higher and Technical Education, who visited each participating institution and interacted closely with students and faculty members. His discussions highlighted the importance of originality and relevance in academic output. By asking, “What new has been achieved by the design students this year?”, the Minister reinforced the need for educational institutions to move beyond traditional approaches and actively encourage innovation.

Commenting on the purpose of the initiative, Dr. Komal Ullal, Hon. Ph.D. (Art and Design Education), Founder of Urmi’s Art Forum, stated that the expo was envisioned as a bridge between education, practice, and policy. She emphasised that design education must prepare students not only with skills, but also with the ability to think independently, question assumptions, and develop socially meaningful solutions.

The Honourable Minister appreciated the structure and intent of the platform and encouraged the organisers to submit a formal proposal to expand its reach. He reiterated the government’s willingness to support institutions and students who demonstrate critical design thinking, innovation, and impactful creative outcomes.

The following day, the Honourable Minister of Cultural Affairs visited the expo and engaged extensively with the student exhibits. He acknowledged the quality of work presented and expressed strong support for the initiative. His announcement regarding future editions of the UAF Expo being organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Cultural Affairs marked an important step toward sustained institutional support.

The UAF Expo concluded as a forward-looking initiative that strengthened dialogue, collaboration, and the long-term vision for design education in Maharashtra.

Company :-Urmi's Art Forum

User :- Komal Ullal

Email :-urmiartforum@gmail.com

Phone :-98207 79554

Mobile:- 98207 79554

Url :- https://urmisartforum.com/