icaaus2025

About the conferences

CONFERENCE NOTE: ICAAUS 2025

The First International Conference on Art, Architecture & Urban Studies, hosted by the School of Art & Architecture, will focus on discourses and innovations surrounding Inclusive Environments in Growing Cities. This conference aligns with the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan (Accessible India Campaign) and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly: SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

The conference envisions an India that integrates accessibility into its urban and peri-urban fabric, ensuring that cities are inclusive, sustainable, and responsive to the diverse needs of their citizens. As urbanization accelerates, the conference will investigate how cities can become adaptable, barrier-free, and future-ready—drawing on policy frameworks, innovative design approaches, and advanced technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), to create thriving and inclusive urban environments.

The conference will act as a platform for exploring innovative design approaches, policy frameworks, and technological solutions that promote inclusivity and social equity in India's rapidly growing urban landscapes.Through comprehensive discussions on culture, heritage, psychology, governance, environment, universal design,  technology, AI and judicial frameworks etc. As cities and peri-urban areas face increasing environmental, social, and economic pressures, ICAAUS 2025 aims to spark dialogue, showcase research, and develop actionable strategies to create cities that are not only advanced but also just, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of all citizens.

Objectives

• Inspiring Keynotes by thought leaders shaping inclusive urbanism.
• Curated Conversations on policies, design innovations, technological advancements, legal frameworks, and community-driven solutions.
• Workshops & Seminars to develop actionable strategies for accessibility and urban inclusivity.
• Cutting-Edge Research on universal design, adaptive urban frameworks, smart city infrastructure, and legal mechanisms for ensuring equitable access. 

Importance of Inclusive Environments

1. Physical Needs

• Inclusive cities must ensure accessibility for all, including individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and those with differing physical abilities. Urban design should incorporate barrier-free mobility, accessible public transportation, and universal design principles.
• Public spaces should be safe, secure, and welcoming, encouraging engagement regardless of physical ability.

2. Social Needs

• Fostering social inclusivity involves promoting diversity and creating spaces that reflect and celebrate cultural differences. No group should feel marginalized.
• Gender-responsive spaces, inclusive housing policies, and accessible education systems are essential to bridging social gaps and encouraging representation in urban planning processes.

3. Economic Needs

• Equitable access to economic opportunities supports social mobility and reduces inequality. Inclusive urban environments should promote job creation, affordable housing, and fair labor practices.
• Access to economic resources and markets ensures that all residents can thrive.

4. Judicial Needs

• Justice and equity should be at the core of inclusive environments. Legal frameworks must protect vulnerable communities and ensure fair access to housing, healthcare, and essential services.
• Advocacy for citizens’ rights to the city and participatory urban governance strengthens inclusivity.

5. Technological Needs

• Smart city initiatives should be designed with inclusivity in mind, ensuring that technological advancements benefit all citizens.
• Digital access, smart infrastructure, and tech-based urban services should be equitable and user-friendly.

The Key Themes:

Inclusive cities must provide equal access to spaces and resources through thoughtful design and accessibility. A truly inclusive urban environment combines physical, social, and cultural infrastructure to serve all people, regardless of ability, age, gender, or socio-economic background. Rethinking access, mobility, and participation allows cities to become more engaging and fair. As cities evolve, innovative strategies are essential to ensure that no one is left behind, making urban spaces vibrant, adaptable, and socially just. This raises a key question: How can inclusivity drive future urban transformation?

• Barrier-Free Environment: Applying universal design principles to improve accessibility in public spaces.
• Inclusive Mobility: Strengthening public transportation systems to ensure equal access for all.
• Reactivating Public Spaces: Revitalizing urban areas to encourage community interaction and social inclusion.

Creating truly inclusive cities means ensuring that all communities are represented, valued, and engaged. Social equity involves fair access to opportunities, resources, and safety for all genders and backgrounds. Cultural equity reflects local identity and continuity in urban design, preserving the social fabric while accommodating growth. Cognitive equity ensures that urban spaces are mentally stimulating and supportive of neuro-diverse needs, fostering environments where everyone can thrive. By integrating cultural identity, social representation, and cognitive diversity, cities can empower communities and build resilience in an ever-changing landscape.

• Perceived Social Inclusion: Designing safe and inclusive public spaces that support equitable development.
• Cultural Continuity and Urban Character: Integrating traditional knowledge and practices into modern urban planning to preserve local identity and strengthen urban character.
• Harmonizing Cognitive Ability: Developing spaces that support cognitive diversity and mental well-being through inclusive and culturally sensitive design.

III. Economic, Resilient and Heritage-led Growth

Cities must expand economic opportunities while maintaining social equity and cultural identity. Fair access to jobs, entrepreneurship, and mobility is essential to prevent marginalization and strengthen community bonds. Affordable housing should promote diverse, mixed-use neighborhoods that reflect the social and economic makeup of communities. Resilient urban growth requires balancing economic expansion with environmental adaptability and social fairness. Heritage-led regeneration through adaptive reuse, tourism, and the preservation of local industries can stimulate economic revival while maintaining cultural continuity. How can cities ensure that economic growth benefits everyone and strengthens social cohesion rather than deepening inequality?

• Equitable Economic Models: Supporting informal workers, artisans, and marginalized groups through community-driven development and local economic growth.
• Heritage-Led Regeneration: Leveraging tourism and adaptive reuse to create economic opportunities while preserving cultural identity.
• Resilient Neighborhoods: Designing climate-responsive, inclusive neighborhoods that support diverse communities and withstand socio-economic pressures.

Creating fair and future-ready cities requires governance and policies that prioritize inclusivity and resilience. Legal frameworks must protect housing rights, labor practices, and social welfare to prevent deepening inequality. AI and smart technologies offer new opportunities to bridge the digital divide, improving equity and public participation. AI-driven urban planning can support real-time decision-making and resource allocation, making cities more adaptive and responsive. Inclusive governance relies on participatory decision-making, ensuring that all voices—especially marginalized communities—are heard in shaping urban futures. How can governance and technology create cities that are not only technologically advanced but also just and inclusive?

• Equitable Urban Policies: Strengthening legal structures to support balanced and inclusive urban development.
• AI and Smart Cities: Enhancing digital access and public engagement through AI and technological solutions.
• Inclusive Governance: Implementing global best practices to create fair and inclusive urban management.

Language requirement

It is essential for International students to have good proficiency in spoken and written English, as all our programs are taught in English, you are required to provide evidence of passing the qualifying in English.

Have IELTS 6.0 with no sub-score below 5.5 or TOEFL (paper) 550, TOEFL (computer) of 213 or TOEFL (IBT) of 79 scores. Exam results should not be more than two years old.

OR

Candidates without the above pre-qualifications will have to enroll either for Intensive Certificate course in English Language (Full Time) conducted from March to May each year.

Commitee Members

CONFERENCE COMMITTEE

CHIEF PATRON:

• Shri J. S Mishra ,IAS (R), Hon’ble Chancellor, Sushant University

PATRONS:

• (Dr.) Rakesh Ranjan, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Sushant University
• Sanjeev Sharma, Hon’ble Pro Vice Chancellor, Sushant University

CONFERENCE CHAIRS

• (Col.) V.K Malik, Dean SAA, Sushant University.
• (Dr.) Navin Piplani, Director SAA, Sushant University

CONVENER of the CONFERENCE:

• Pooja Lalit Kumar, Head Accreditation and Rankings, SAA, Sushant University

SCIENTIFIC COMMITTEE:

• (Dr.) Navin Piplani, Director SAA, Sushant University
• (Dr. ) T.S. Brar, HOD DoPAR, SAA, Sushant University
• (Dr.) Suruchi Modi, HOD DoA, SAA, Sushant University
• Aruna Bhardwaj, Head, Research Cell, SAA, Sushant University
• Pooja Lalit Kumar, Head Accreditation and Rankings, SAA, Sushant University

ORGANISING SECRETARIAT

• Prof. (Dr.)Purva Manjumdar
• Prof. Deepak Kumar ( Treasurer)
• Prof. Sourav Banerjee
• Prof. Shanu Jain
• Prof. Kiran Singh
• Prof. Ria Kapoor

Registration Form

...to be updated soon.

Contact

For further information or any query, please write to us at :

icaaus@sushantuniversity.edu.in

Important Dates

Conference Announcement & Call for Papers Opens: 3rd April 2025
Abstract Submission Deadline (Paper & Poster): 15th May 2025
Abstract Selection Confirmation: 30th May 2025
Full Paper & Poster Submission Deadline: 30th June 2025
Acceptance & Registration Deadline: 20th July 2025
Final Revised Paper & Poster Submission: 10th August 2025

Join us in shaping the dialogue on inclusive, sustainable, and resilient urban environments!

Qualification Requirement

Admissions are in conformity with the guidelines set by the Association of Indian Universities and the Statutory Bodies of India like the All India Council for Technical Education, Bar Council of India, etc.

Only candidates who have the requisite qualification from foreign universities or Boards of Higher Education accredited and recognized by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), Govt. of India, New Delhi are eligible to apply at Sushant University for admission.

If required, candidates will be asked to obtain the ‘eligibility certificate/equivalency certificate’ from Association of Indian Universities (AIU), New Delhi on the given below address.

Click on: Recognized Boards &Universities

Association of Indian Universities

AIU House, 16 Kotla Marg,

New Delhi – 110 002

Tel. No. +91 – 11 – 23230059

Fax No. +91 – 11 – 23232131

Email: info@aiuweb.org

Registration Fee

Course fee structure 2020

Abstract Approval List

Call for Papers – ICAAUS 2025

We are excited to invite researchers, academicians, and professionals to contribute to the 1st International Conference on Art, Architecture, and Urban Studies (ICAAUS 2025) on "Inclusive Environments in Growing Cities" under the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan.

Hosted by: School of Art and Architecture, Sushant University

 Conference Dates: 17–19 September 2025

Accommodation

Most students experience living with others at some point during their studies. It can be an amazing time in your life and you can end up making friends for life. However, there are a few guidelines you should follow if you want to ensure a harmonious and relaxed living situation. Click here for Hostel Link

The Campus Residence fee structure for 2020

Please note:

1. This is an annual fee for availing the hostel which includes accommodation, meals and snacks.
2. You are required to apply for your spot in a separate form.
3. All our Residences are triple AC sharing rooms.
4. Hostel Fee payments in full needs to be done along with First semester academic fee.
5. Students are required to apply for Residence spot every year.
6. All Residence rules and Regulations will apply.

Lateral Entry / Migration

If you are currently enrolled in another recognized educational institution in India, and if you wish to pursue your studies with us we offer a variety of services to help you in the admissions process. For example you may have completed the first year of a degree at another university and want to study at Sushant University. Or you may have completed a diploma, professional or vocational qualification and want to transfer this credit to Sushant University.

For transfer policy and eligibility requirements please mail us: admissions@sushantuniversity.edu.in

Resources

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – ICAAUS 2025

1. General Information

Q1: What is ICAAUS 2025?

ICAAUS 2025 is the 1st International Conference on Art, Architecture & Urban Studies, organized by the School of Art & Architecture, Sushant University. This conference aims to foster discussions and innovations around Inclusive Environments in Growing Cities.

It aligns with:

• Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan (Accessible India Campaign)
• United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
  • SDG 5 – Gender Equality
  • SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities
  • SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities

Q2: When and where will the conference take place?

ICAAUS 2025 will be held from September 17 to 19, 2025, in a hybrid format:

• September 17, 2025 – Offline  at  School of Art and Architecture, Sushant University, Gurugram, India
• September 18-19, 2025 – Hybrid (Online & Offline sessions available)

Q3: What are the key themes of the conference?

Participants can submit abstracts under the following broad themes:

1. Accessible, Inclusive, and Universal Design
2. Social, Cultural, and Cognitive Equity
3. Economic, Resilient, and Heritage-led Growth
4. Governance, Policy, and Technological Innovation

For detailed sub-themes, visit the official conference webpage: [Insert Webpage Link]

2. Call for Abstracts & Submissions

Q4: How can I submit my abstract?

Abstracts can be submitted through the Call for Abstracts Google Form, available on the official conference webpage:

Q5: What is the deadline for abstract submission?

The deadline for abstract submission is [Insert Deadline]. Late submissions will not be considered.

 (Refer to the Important Dates section on the webpage for updates.)

Q6: Can I submit more than one abstract?

Yes, multiple abstracts can be submitted. However, each submission must be unique and relevant to the conference themes.

Q7: Is there a word limit for the abstract?

Yes, abstracts must be 250–300 words in length.

Q8: Will my paper be published?

Yes! The following publication opportunities are available:

• All accepted abstracts (papers & posters) from registered authors will be published in the ‘Book of Abstracts’.
• Full papers submitted by the deadline will be considered for publication in Scopus-indexed/Springer journals as part of the conference proceedings.
• Selected papers will be published in a Special Issue of reputed journals.

3. Registration & Fees

Q9: How can I register for the conference?

Registration will be available on the official conference website once the registration portal opens. Stay tuned for updates.

Q10: Is there a registration fee?

Yes, a nominal registration fee applies to both presenters and attendees. The fee structure will be available on the registration page.

Q11: Do co-authors need to register separately?

Yes, each co-author attending the conference must register separately. However, only one author is required to present the paper.

4. Conference Participation & Logistics

Q12: Can I attend the conference without presenting a paper?

Yes! Anyone interested in learning, networking, and engaging with experts can register as a participant without submitting a paper.

Q13: Will the conference provide certificates?

Yes!

• Presenters will receive e-certificates upon successful presentation.
• Attendees will receive e-certificates for participation.

Q14: Will there be an online participation option?

Yes! The conference will be hybrid, allowing online participation for international and remote attendees:

• Day 1 (September 17, 2025) – Offline at Sushant University, Gurugram
• Days 2 & 3 (September 18-19, 2025) – Hybrid (Online & Offline options available)

5. Contact Information

Q15: How can I contact the organizing team for queries?

For further inquiries, feel free to reach out to us:

• Email: icaaus@sushantuniversity.edu.in
• Website: https://sushantuniversity.edu.in

Stay updated by following our official conference page for announcements!