TALK | BOOK LAUNCH AND SIGNING
Learning Together at Jawaja: The 'Rural University' Experiment
A Talk by Prof. Ashoke Chatterjee followed by a Conversation with Ramlalji and Babulalji of Jawaja
THURSDAY 19th FEBRUARY, 2026 | 6.00 PM
REGISTRATION COMPULSORY: Limited Seats: Free
ARTISANS' is honoured to invite you to explore how design and education can be a force for change and for social justice, with Prof. Ashoke Chatterjee
Learning Together at Jawaja chronicles a unique experiment in participatory design and rural empowerment that began in 1975. Conceived as a ‘Rural University’ under Prof. Ravi J. Matthai, the project brought together craftspeople from Jawaja, design students from NID, and management experts from IIM-Ahmedabad.
This collaborative model addressed real rural concerns, poverty, self-reliance, and dignity, while redefining the roles of education and design. It questioned standard pedagogies and as an alternative to charity, fostered mutual learning, local leadership, and collective agency.
More than five decades since 1975, Jawaja remains a touchstone for inclusive design and social innovation, proving that craft and collective learning can be powerful tools of transformation.
About Prof. Ashoke Chatterjee
Ashoke Chatterjee is a renowned design advocate and former Executive Director of NID, Ahmedabad. With a background spanning industry, international civil service, and development sectors, he has worked extensively in areas such as water, sanitation, disability, livelihoods, and craft. He served as Honorary President of the Crafts Council of India for over two decades, and continues to write, teach, and support design for social change.
RELATED EVENT: EXHIBITION | SALE:
Jawaja: Artisans Alliance of Jawaja 19 - 22 February, 2026
