Nissan looks to nurture young designers in India, launches its Roots of Design program

In an effort to encourage children worldwide to explore career opportunities in arts, design and creativity, Nissan Motor Co has launched its ‘Roots of Design’ program in India.

The initiative, which has already been introduced  across schools in Dubai, Bangkok, Singapore and Beijing, was launched today at the Chennai Public School, Anna Nagar Campus, Chennai by Alfonso Albaisa, senior vice-president for Global Design, Nissan Motor Co.

Alfonso Albaisa interacting with students as a part of the ‘Roots of Design’ program at Chennai Public School today.

Spearheaded by Nissan Design along with Alfonso Albaisa, the program is aimed at inspiring the next generation of creators and developing a different perspective towards design and creativity to solve new problems in the automotive industry. A session, chaired by Alfonso, was attended by a packed auditorium of students from Class 11 and 12 at Chennai Public School, their parents and staff members. Albaisa shared the story of his career with the students, providing them with a first-person example of the exciting opportunities that a career in design can offer. He also gave an overview of the history of automotive design, Nissan’s design philosophy, and future industry trends like artificial intelligence and automation.

Albaisa said, “The world around us is changing fast and so is the auto industry. The cities we live in are becoming smarter and more connected. This in turn is affecting how consumers engage with objects around them and how they view mobility solutions to address their needs.”

“Designers will play a key role in what the future looks like, not just in the auto industry, but across technology, infrastructure, electronics and consumer durables. Through Roots of Design, we are opening the doors to the world of design and the numerous opportunities it offers for aspiring students across the globe,” he added.    

A report by the British Council in partnership with Design Council of India pegged the potential of market for design in India to touch Rs 18,832 crore by 2020. Only about a fifth of this market is currently being tapped. The fact that from a handful in 2010, the number of design institutions has grown to over 70 by 2016 is a testimony to the growing need of talent in this industry.