World University of Design, University of Huddersfield get INR 4.4 Crore Grant for Cultural Exchange Project

This funding will support a groundbreaking project focused on exploring and preserving the cultural heritage of post office buildings in India and the UK. The initiative aims to utilize innovative architectural technology to assess the potential future uses of these historic structures.

The World University of Design (WUD), India’s pioneering institution for creative education, has secured a significant grant of INR 4.4 crore (INR 40 million) from the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) in collaboration with the University of Huddersfield, UK. This funding will support a groundbreaking project focused on exploring and preserving the cultural heritage of post office buildings in India and the UK. The initiative aims to utilize innovative architectural technology to assess the potential future uses of these historic structures.

Project Scope and Duration

The project, which is set to run until December 2026, will employ a creative place-based scanning approach to investigate the post office cultures in both countries. It will involve detailed examination of British-era post office buildings, utilizing cutting-edge technology to explore their historical significance and potential for future repurposing. The collaboration will also include contributions from the Postal Museum of London and the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH).

Innovative 3D Technology Application

A key aspect of the project is the application of advanced 3D scanning technology. Professor Nic Clear, an expert in 3D scanning, will lead efforts to create visual representations of post office buildings, capturing their architectural heritage and site-specific narratives. This technological approach will facilitate a deeper understanding of the cultural legacies associated with these structures.

Engaging Communities and Preserving Stories

The initiative will involve community engagement in both India and the UK, capturing the stories of individuals who worked in post offices. The Postal Museum of London and INTACH will utilize innovative software to produce 3D models of significant British-era buildings. The project aims to document and share the experiences of postmasters and postmistresses from South Asian communities in the UK and India.

Rowan Bailey, Director of the Centre for Cultural Ecologies in Art, Design, and Architecture and Principal Lead for the project, highlighted the value of scanning buildings to identify potential adaptive uses or preservation strategies. “We are also planning exhibitions in both the UK and India to share the stories and lived experiences of people connected to these historic sites,” Bailey said.

Aligning with Broader Initiatives

The Knowledge and Cultural Exchange Project aligns with the India-UK 2030 Roadmap, which aims to enhance cultural relations and support collaborative research. It also supports the HRIDAY (Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana) initiative by preserving cultural heritage and finding adaptive uses for historic structures. Furthermore, the project resonates with the "Dekho Apna Desh" initiative, promoting domestic tourism through the transformation of old post office buildings into vibrant community spaces.

Support for Government Initiatives

By integrating cutting-edge architectural technology, the project showcases India's commitment to technological advancement and innovation in cultural sectors. It also complements urban renewal efforts under the Smart City initiative, contributing to the revitalization of historic buildings and enhancing their role in contemporary urban landscapes.

Vice Chancellor’s Statement

Dr Sanjay Gupta, Vice Chancellor of the World University of Design, expressed enthusiasm about the grant and the project's potential impact. “At WUD, we are committed to fostering global collaborations and cultural exchanges. This project will not only preserve heritage but also enhance tourism, urban renewal, and international cultural dialogue. We are honored to receive this prestigious grant and look forward to contributing to the global community through this collaboration,” said Dr Gupta.

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