MICA, located in Ahmedabad, has announced an exciting new venture. It will open India’s first School of Applied Creativity in July 2026. This school aims to equip students with essential skills that combine imagination, storytelling, media, and artificial intelligence (AI). The launch event took place in Mumbai and attracted notable figures from various fields.
The School of Applied Creativity will initially offer two programs. The first is a one-year Crafting Creative Communications (CCC) course. The second is a two-year Post Graduate Programme (PGP) in Media, Content, and Entertainment. During its first phase, the school plans to accept between 80 to 100 students.
Shekhar Kapur, a well-known filmmaker and Oscar nominee, will serve as the chief mentor for the institute. His involvement is expected to bring a wealth of experience and insight into the programs offered.
Tina Ambani, Chairperson of the MICA Foundation for Communications Research and Education, expressed her enthusiasm for the new school. She stated, “MICA has always stayed ahead of the curve. We were among the first to see the deep connection between marketing, communication, and culture. We embraced digital when it was still emerging.” Ambani believes that the school will empower individuals to become creative leaders in what she calls the ‘Age of Imagination’.
In addition to these programs, the School of Applied Creativity will introduce online masterclasses in the future. This will allow students from across India and the globe to participate. The courses will focus on practical skills and include studio-based learning with a production-heavy curriculum. This approach is inspired by prestigious institutions like Central Saint Martins in the UK and the University of Southern California (USC).
Jaya Deshmukh, Director and CEO of MICA, shared her vision for the school. She said, “While AI will make knowledge accessible to everyone, the true value will come from human imagination, creativity, and cultural intelligence.” Deshmukh highlighted the growing need for professionals trained in AI and emphasized the importance of blending creativity with technology.
The School of Applied Creativity will also feature specialized labs. These include the AI & Creativity Lab, the Narrative Design Lab, and the Culture & Futures Lab. These labs will provide students with hands-on experience in applying their creativity using modern technologies.
Shekhar Kapur also spoke about the role of creativity in a world increasingly influenced by AI. He noted, “People are worried that AI will take away jobs. But the real concern is how the youth will excel without understanding AI and other technologies.” He believes that the combination of creativity and technology will lead to new opportunities, especially in fields like filmmaking and storytelling.
The launch of the School of Applied Creativity represents a significant step for MICA. It aims to fill the gap in skills required for the future job market. The school’s innovative approach combines traditional education with modern technology, preparing students for a rapidly changing world.
As the world evolves, the need for creativity in various industries becomes more apparent. The School of Applied Creativity at MICA is set to lead the way in nurturing the next generation of creative leaders who can adapt and thrive in this new landscape. With the support of industry veterans and a forward-thinking curriculum, students will gain the tools they need to succeed in their creative careers.
In summary, MICA’s initiative is a promising development for aspiring creatives. The School of Applied Creativity aims to bridge the gap between creativity and technology, ensuring that students are well-equipped for the future.