Kollam, Kerala – We are overflowing with extreme happiness and immense pride to share a momentous achievement for Bishop Jerome Institute. Ar. Ramya Ancy Rajan, Assistant Professor in our School of Architecture & Design, has brought national laurel to the institution by securing the First Prize in the highly competitive ITPI KeRC Best Thesis Award 2026.

This significant recognition from the Institute of Town Planners India (Kerala Regional Centre) highlights Ar. Ramya Ancy Rajan exceptional academic rigor and the impactful nature of her research. Her award-winning thesis, titled 'Integrating Blue-Green Infrastructure (BGI) for Mitigating Urban Heat Island (UHI) Effect: A Case of Kannur Municipal Corporation,' addresses one of the critical environmental challenges facing rapidly urbanizing areas.

UHI is a phenomenon where urban areas become significantly warmer than their surrounding rural environments, primarily due to human activities, built structures, and a loss of natural elements. Ar. Ramya Ancy Rajan meticulous study scientifically quantified how different surface types—vegetation, water bodies, built-up structures, and barren land—collectively influence land surface temperatures within the specific context of Kannur.

The jury was particularly impressed by the thesis's data-driven approach and its potential for real-world application. The research findings go beyond theoretical analysis; they provide a valuable roadmap for municipal authorities and town planners. It outlines specific, evidence-based Blue-Green Infrastructure (BGI) interventions that can be strategically deployed to mitigate UHI effects, thereby creating cooler, healthier, and more liveable urban environments. BGI, encompassing things like urban forests, green roofs, permeable pavements, and restored waterways, is increasingly recognized as a vital sustainable urbanism strategy.

This achievement reflects not only Ar. Ramya Ancy Rajan dedication and scholarly acumen but also underscores the Bishop Jerome Institute School of Architecture & Design’s unwavering commitment to fostering academic excellence and promoting innovative, sustainable solutions for the built environment. It serves as a tremendous inspiration for our students and reinforces our dedication to research that positively impacts society and the environment.

We extend our heartfelt and most sincere congratulations to Ar. Ramya Ancy Rajan for this truly remarkable milestone. Your success elevates the institute and inspires us all!