Mumbai, 20 th September 2025 (TGN) : Vivekanand Education Society’s College of Architecture (VESCOA), the designated Zonal Centre for Zone-3 of the Council of Architecture (COA), successfully concluded a landmark three-day event featuring the Awards for Excellence in Architectural Thesis (AEAT 2025) and the Excellence in Documentation of Architectural Heritage (DAH 2025). Organized under the academic unit of COA-TRC, Pune, this annual initiative, held since 2006, brings together educators, practicing architects, and emerging talent from across Maharashtra to encourage dialogue, reflection, and collaboration on contemporary architectural trends.
Over 120 thesis entries and 30 heritage documentation projects were received from Zone-3 colleges. A grand exhibition showcased the shortlisted works, providing visitors a window into innovative architectural thinking. The submissions were evaluated by a distinguished jury from across India, with five outstanding projects in each category advancing to the final presentations.
The event was graced by eminent dignitaries, including Chief Guest Shri Tukaram Kate Ji, MLA; Guests of Honor Shri Shankar Bhosle Ji, Assistant Commissioner, M/West Ward; and Shri Mahadev Shivgan Ji, Ex-Corporator, Chembur. VES Trustee Members, including Shri Suresh Malkani Ji (President), Shri Rajesh Gehani Ji (Secretary), Dr. (Shri) Prakash Lulla Ji (Treasurer), and Shri Bansi Wadhwa Ji, were also in attendance. Dr. Prof. Anand Achari, Principal of VESCOA, welcomed the guests and inaugurated the exhibition.
Among the standout entries, projects such as The Science- Soil Nexus: Redefining Viticulture Ecosystem by Poornima Kotecha from Kamla Raheja Vidyarthi Institute of Architecture and Environmental Studies, Mumbai and Community Infrastructure for Women Entrepreneurs in Worli by Akanksha Thakur from School of Environment and Architecture, Mumbai received wide acclaim. These two entries from the Architecture and Social Concern category were selected for the final round. The award-winning works explored themes of sustainable design, community-driven planning, heritage conservation, and innovative architectural solutions.
*Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Prof. Anand Achari, Principal of VESCOA,* remarked, “Leading Zone-3 architectural education through such initiatives allows VESCOA to set benchmarks in value-based education and knowledge dissemination. Events like these nurture creativity and sensitize future professionals to design sustainable and humane habitats.”
Shri Abhay Purohit, President of the Council of Architecture, added, “These awards are more than competitions, they are platforms for academic collaboration that address urban and rural challenges, promoting shared learning. With the New Education Policy shaping architectural education, such initiatives will ensure a more integrated and robust future for the profession in India.”
VESCOA continues to emphasize real-world problem solving through design studios, research initiatives, and industry–academia collaborations. By nurturing socially responsible and technically skilled architects, the institute remains committed to shaping the next generation of leaders contributing meaningfully to a New Bharat.
