On Monday, 5 October 2026, the School of Architecture & Design at Bishop Jerome Institute (BJI), Kollam, hosted a student-led celebration to mark World Habitat Day. Organized in collaboration with the Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC, Ministry of Education Initiative), the event centered around the crucial theme: "Adequate Housing for All."

Aligned with the core philosophy—Better Homes, Stronger Communities, Brighter Futures—the initiative brought together students, faculty, and young designers to explore the vital connection between people, places, and sustainable urbanization. The celebration, which commenced at 12:00 PM onwards at the School of Architecture & Design venue, served as an engaging platform for creative expression, community dialogue, and advocacy for a better built environment.

Event Highlights & Student Activities

The student-led activities were designed to encourage active participation and critical thinking around sustainable urban development and inclusive housing solutions:

  • Write on Adequate Housing for All: Students shared their written thoughts, creative reflections, and innovative perspectives on addressing global and local housing challenges.

  • Share Your Ideas (Habitat Wall): An interactive "Habitat Wall" was set up where participants posted visual ideas, design solutions, and vision statements for future human settlements.

  • The Habitat Pledge: Participants took a collective pledge, reaffirming their commitment to designing and building a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable habitat for all.

Designing a Better Tomorrow

As future architects and urban planners, the students of Bishop Jerome Institute demonstrated that true architecture goes beyond mere structures—it shapes people, homes, cities, and collective futures.

The event successfully highlighted the role of youth and design education in building resilient communities and ensuring that safe, adequate, and sustainable housing becomes a reality for everyone.