VESCOA Hosts COA Thesis Awards Zone 3 Celebrating Architectural Excellence (Post-Event)

Mumbai: 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 Tukaram Kate, MLA; Guests of Honor Shankar Bhosle, Assistant Commissioner, M/West Ward; and Mahadev Shivgan, Ex-Corporator, Chembur. VES Trustee Members, including Suresh Malkani (President), Rajesh Gehani (Secretary), Dr. Prakash Lulla (Treasurer), and Bansi Wadhwa, were also in attendance. Dr. Prof. Anand Achari, Principal of VESCOA, welcomed the guests and inaugurated the exhibition.

 

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.”

 

 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.”