Henceforth, no more non-science students can study architecture as the Council of Architecture (CoA) has revised the eligiblility criteria by making 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry and Math mandatory for admission. The decision has opened a Pandora's Box, polarising expert opinion

COA IS RIGHT - Dr KS Anantha Krishna, Dean, CMR University School of Architecture, Bengaluru favours shift to science

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During the last 30 years, we have witnessed the development of IT and its proliferation into almost all walks of life. The advancements in structural technology, building materials, lighting science, acoustics, heating, ventilation and air conditioning have been profound. These technological advancements have influenced architecture to such an extent that an architect is forced to keep abreast of the developments in technology, even though he/she applies and integrates them with his/her creative spatial configurements. Today, almost all architectural offices are computerised and the use of sophisticated software is an integral part of the architectural work environment.

The implication of the changed technological environment in which architecture functions today, on architectural education, is being reflected by the decision of the Council of Architecture. Its decision to allow only sciences students into architecture is meaningful, which is keeping up with the times. The decision ensures that architects are not only skilled spatial artists but also have a background of science and hence well equipped to understand and keep pace with technology.

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'OPEN UP' - Rishab Sharma, Master's degree in Architecture Design and History in Polytechnic University of Milan favours only talent

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The only thing that is a pre-requisite is a constructive mind and not a sense of art. Even in our field, there are many architects who are without a job. The reason is that they have restricted themselves to one form and are not able to do anything else. If the committee feels this is to improve the output of architects from colleges, I don't think that is right. Because, anyway, you have an exam even after your architecture degree. Only if they clear that, they are certified. Everyone should be given a chance to attempt the exam. In the exam, we have many questions from Mathematics and they will know if they are eligible or not. Why restrict creative minds? That is my only submission. Physics might be useful to some extent, but why Chemistry? We hardly apply any "Chemistry", except in the case of sculptures.

This all points to the mindset in our country. In India, we see that only science students can think 20 questions ahead than a Commerce or Arts student. This is definitely wrong. We need to break this mindset. Here in Italy, I see students coming from various backgrounds and they are holistically learned. We are limiting student freedom if we apply brakes on their aptitude. We are putting a question mark on the capability of a Commerce or Arts student if we stipulate criteria. Let all get a fair shot at the exam.