Chandigarh Design School (CDS) successfully trained a select group of Panjab University students in Design Thinking as part of the CSDE, DIC, and IIC-led program. Held from December 7–20, 2024, at CSDE, Sector 25, Panjab University, this initiative attracted over 30 students, including MBA and Engineering scholars.
Vineet Raj Kapoor, Founder of SXILL and Chandigarh Design School, and Lead Expert IDT for Worldskills, shared his enthusiasm for training the cohort. “It was a wonderful opportunity to train Panjab University students in Design Thinking. We emphasized empathetic thinking, which is often lacking among Indian UX Designers. The course bridged the gap between theory and practice, focusing on problem finding, user persona development, journey mapping, and concept design,” he noted. Kapoor also teased his upcoming book, SOLVXD: Think in Steps, which encapsulates these methodologies.
The cohort tackled a pressing issue: the PGI-PU crossing problem affecting Panjab University students and PGIMER patients. Former Panjab University Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Grover, commended the relevance of the project during the valedictory event. “This course nurtures problem solvers and brings education back to relevance. It should be scaled to benefit 6,000 students annually,” he remarked.
Participants praised the course for its impactful insights. Arya Kalia, an MBA student, said, “Vineet Sir’s examples were incredibly relevant and deepened our understanding of Design Thinking.” Another participant, Ashman Kaur Kohli, highlighted the practical applicability of the lessons in both professional and personal spheres.
Neelu Kapoor, Indiaskills Graphic Design Technology Jury and CDS Founder, reflected on the success of the program. “This marks the first semester-long Creative Thinking for Professional Success course offered by CDS, and the quality of assignments from Panjab University students is inspiring. It follows our well-received Faculty Development Program at Chitkara University.”