Friday 23 September 2011

Registration with the COA – A Student’s Perspective

On that 1st day of college, when being registered as the students of the first year, batch 2009-2010, the principal of the college, entered into  a three hour long discussion with us regarding some questions put up by some of the inquisitive (and probably more informed) students among us. The gist of the lecture was why the college, despite producing some of the finest and most capable architecture graduates of the country every year, was not getting registered with the Council of Architecture.

Today as I sit with my fellow classmates and other students both seniors and juniors, on the third day of our silent but impactful protest, I still remember the reassurance given to us that fateful day two years ago by the Dean, and to many other batches before us on the same day when they entered into the first year at this college. I must admit I find the current protest impactful, definitely, despite the fact that not a slogan or cheer has been uttered by any of the students on these three days. With the knowledge that we are some of the best architecture students of the country, well set in our hearts and minds, we continue to stand for one cause in a legal, well presented and formulated and most importantly peaceful manner.
Unlike any protest I have ever witnessed before (certainly not having been a part of one) we sit through the day receiving news, both good and bad with equal measure of grim solidarity and perseverance, ranging from our applications and appeals being received in good light by the government to winning various architectural competitions all over the nation to the grave delay and irresponsiveness of some of the authorities. Every passing day fills us with optimism as we are beginning to see the silver lining s in the clouds, in the form of the good news that greets us every few hours. The students, all sitting together like a close knit family are preparing for some of the toughest design competitions and assignments that they meet with great gusto. The same students are also preparing slogans and banners to vehemently put forward their cause which we now recognize as our last resort to attain our well deserved identity. We guide each other, we learn from each other, we are dependent on each other, and we take our strength from each other. Every face glows with a resolve, every heart beats ton one rhythm; our motive.
The Fact that our seniors and alumni stand with us, pushing our cause forward contributes further to lifting up our spirits. Clearly from the present scenario, the surging hopes and strengthening support, we are sure that the darkened days that had made our future obscure and indistinct are soon to be replaced by the encouraging light of a sense of security as we succeed in our cause. And we know that this shall happen pretty soon, since we move together on the path is just right for us.
-          Violet Panorama

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