Vani Bajaj, chief mentor, International College of Fashion, speaks with SHAlINI SAKSENA about problems designers face & solutions on offer
What is the importance of equipping students with right skills to be successful entrepreneursIJ
In 1970 and 80s the typical mindset of so called business man (very few women were regarded as to conduct business) that there is no requirement of formal qualifications and business acumen is either inherent or god gifted. Very few Indians aspiring to start an enterprise will have gone to a business school to acquire systematic education. Today, where the economy is so unpredictable, the business environment is so dynamic, with technology there are innovations every day. It goes without saying that running a successful venture independently is a challenge. Therefore, the students should not only be given the skill set that they require but also the best practices and techniques for each aspect.
Which courses will help students achieve the twin dreamIJ
The student is taught to set up an enterprise right from scratch. The students not only learn the technicalities of design which incorporates sketching, draping, pattern cutting, trend forecasting just to name a few but also get to study management, marketing, branding, creation of business plans this is coupled with a live industry interaction for a year which gives them the experience on a hands on job. The programme can be taken up at the undergraduate level or post graduate level.
Reason for these coursesIJ
All the programme’s at international college are developed with the main aim to generate employability. Teaching a skill to someone which makes him/herself sufficient and attractive to the industry has always been the mission. There may be great designers but not all become as successful as Ritu Beri, Tarun Tahaliani or Rohit Gandhi. What they possess is enterprenuerial skills. This programme is an effort to give wings to the many aspirants who wish to start up a venture of their own.
What are the problems designers face once they complete the courseIJ
Key problems that designer may face will be of raising the desired financial funding, finding the right market for their product, greeting the right team to help set up the venture. At ICF we hand hold our students and assist them in overcoming any problems that they might face.
Why are students opting for the fashion entrepreneurship courseIJ
Students realise that studying design alone can get them only this far but add Enterprenuerial skills to fashion and you have a great blend which is almost a sure shot recipe for success for ambitious go getters.
What is the admission criteria and feesIJ
The PG programme is targeted towards individuals with high potential for success in the Business of Fashion. Selection at ICF is therefore very rigorous and competitive. To be considered for admission, one must register with us (registration fees Rs 1,000). The selection criteria is based on the Common Entrance Test score and personal interview.
Any particular reason why the course has been developed by NID, IIT and NIESBUDIJ
As mentioned Icf has been focused on creating and delivering the best content to its students. The amalgamation of the best in design curriculum from NID, management from IIT and practical skills from NEISBUD was brought together which gave birth to the fashion Enterprenuership programme.
Facilities at the college, including placement...
The aspirants will get hands-on experience as a professional starting on day one through internships, guest speakers, field trips and more, exploring their interests, learning the business of fashion, and making valuable connections. Our alumni will find success as buyers, event planners, entrepreneurs and top-level executives at a range of fashion related companies.