The Union ministry of science & technology and Bentley Systems, Inc. have launched the 2008-2009 Future Cities India 2020 competition. Currently in its third year, the competition encourages students to prepare India’s cities for the year 2020, by providing design solutions for real-world infrastructure challenges.

This year’s competition focuses on Indian Railways’ recently announced plans to redevelop 22 railway stations into world-class facilities. Under the rules of the competition students must present a conceptual design plan to upgrade New Delhi Railway station, the first facility on Indian Railways’ redevelopment schedule. The programme which is open to all students attending schools in New Delhi and NCR (National Capital Region), is sponsored by the Union government’s department of science and technology and Bentley Systems. Additional co-sponsors this year include McGraw-Hill Education and The American Center.

“Future Cities India 2020 engages some of the brightest, most talented young minds of India in infrastructure design projects to encourage them to choose a course of study that leads to careers in architecture, engineering, and construction disciplines. In doing so, this initiative helps sustain the infrastructure professions and, ultimately, will lead to better infrastructure for the people of India,” says Scott Lofgren, global director of Bentley’s BE Careers Network.

During a preliminary competition held in August, a panel of distinguished judges selected 15 student teams of schools from the NCR to participate in the Future Cities India 2020 competition finals.

Winners of the finals will be awarded scholarships and trophies, and teachers and technical professionals who serve as counsellors and mentors will also receive awards and recognition.

BE Careers Network (a division of Bentley Systems Inc.) is dedicated to helping students graduate with the technology skills needed for today’s infrastructure professions, including civil engineering and architecture. It provides programs for students, teachers, and schools, including free and discounted software licences, training, and scholarships.