Shahira Sarwat, a graduate of the Architecture department, at American International University-Bangladesh, received second prize in the 6th cycle of the KSRM Awards for Future Architects. The awards are given to the most exceptional theses, chosen from nominations submitted by architecture programs at 15 accredited universities.  The KSRM Awards for Future Architects, an annual award presented in partnership with the Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB), recognizes outstanding undergraduate architecture thesis.

The Award Gala of the 2023-2024 cycle of “KSRM Awards for Future Architects: Best Undergraduate Thesis” in association with IAB was held at the IAB center on 26 April 2025. Mr. Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, Honorable Advisory for the Ministry of Power, Energy & Mineral Resources, Ministry of Road Transport & Bridges, and Ministry of Railways, Government of Bangladesh was the chief guest of the event. He presented the winners with a crest and certificate and the prize money. He gave a speech to the guests, along with the chief guest, IAB President, Ar. Prof. Dr. Abu Sayeed M Ahmed also gave a speech congratulating the winners and participants.

The 6th cycle of KSRM was launched in December 2024. On January 28, 2025, the Jury was held at the IAB center. 5 prominent architects and academicians were appointed as jurors. The result is as follows:

1st prize - Rifat Al Ebrahim (CUET)

2nd prize - Shahira Sarwat (AIUB)

3rd prize - Badhon Das (UAP)

Commendation 1 - Faria Ahmed (NSU)

Commendation 2 - Khandakar Ashikur Rahman (CUET)

Shahira Sarwat secured 2nd position among 44 entries from 15 accredited architectural schools. The title of her thesis project is “Heritage Sanctuary for Geology, Jaflong.”

Jury citation for her project is:

“Where the earth reveals it's ancient memories, this project moves with reverence, not imposition. Paths are traced by listening; forms emerge from restraint. It dissolves the line between observer and landscape, inviting immersion in stone, soil, and silence. Through minimal intervention and deep sensitivity, it fosters a tactile and contemplative connection between people and place. The jury commends its quiet confidence, proving that preservation is not control, but understanding.”

Her thesis teachers were Ashik Vaskor Mannan, Associate Professor, and Irfat Alam, Assistant Professor, Department of Architecture, AIUB. M Arefeen Ibrahim, Associate Professor & Head, Department of Architecture, AIUB was her supervisor.