About the Business
Indian Fashion Academy: Pioneering Excellence in the Dynamic World of Fashion
The evolution of fashion in India, from bell-bottom pants to ripped jeans and bold-colored Kurtas to printed t-shirts, has been nothing short of spectacular. The Indian textile industry currently stands at a staggering $108 billion, and projections indicate it could soar to $223 billion by 2021. To meet this growth, the industry is expected to require around 10 million trained workers. Bridging this gap, especially for those outside urban areas, presents a formidable challenge. However, Nitin Magar, the Founder and President of Maharashtra Kala Shikshan Prasarak Mandal, was an early mover in addressing this issue.
In 2001, Magar took a significant step by establishing the Indian Fashion Academy (IFA). His vision was clear: to make fashion education accessible to all. Recognizing that language barriers hindered many from pursuing a career in the fashion industry, IFA took a pioneering approach by offering fashion education in vernacular languages such as Hindi and Marathi. This commitment to inclusivity set IFA apart and made it the first institute in Maharashtra to create a special division for vernacular students. Consequently, IFA rapidly gained recognition as a versatile institution, attracting students from across the country. To cater to this diverse audience, IFA eventually transitioned to English as the medium of instruction.
Today, accredited by City and Guilds, UK, IFA offers an array of courses spanning Fashion, Tailoring, Beauty, and more. According to Magar, IFA’s focus extends beyond academics. The institute actively connects students with the fashion industry through workshops, competitions, and fashion events. These hands-on experiences provide students with practical exposure and industry insights. IFA also organizes study tours, fashion shows, and jury meetings, enhancing students’ understanding of the fashion world. Industry experts, celebrities, and fashion icons regularly conduct sessions to share real-life insights with students.
Industry-Centric Curriculum
IFA’s programs are practical, hands-on, and industry-centric. For instance, the institute’s flagship course, the Diploma in Fashion Designing, prepares students for real-world challenges in the fashion industry. It combines practical and theoretical modules to equip budding fashion designers with the knowledge and skills they need. Unlike some institutes that enroll large numbers of students in a single class, IFA maintains small class sizes to ensure individual attention and a supportive learning environment. With a team of over 54 faculty members, IFA prides itself on preparing industry-ready professionals.
The impact of IFA’s programs is evident through the successful and fulfilling careers its graduates enjoy in the fashion industry. IFA stands out as the only institute with its own costume designing department, offering students invaluable on-the-job training. It also provides national and international internships to deserving students. Renowned fashion designers serve as mentors and critics, refining IFA students before they step into the industry.
As India welcomes an increasing number of international luxury brands, there is a growing demand for trained professionals in design, management, communication, and technology within the fashion market. IFA fills this need and assures a new generation of fashion professionals ready to excel in the captivating world of the fashion industry.
