Jesuits’ contribution to education in South Asia decisive

The Jesuit educational network in South Asia has 387 primary and secondary schools, 50 colleges and 16 high schools.

India:  Father Felix Raj SJ, Dean of St. Francis Xavier College in Calcutta, in a recent interview to Agenzie Fides recollected the pivotal contribution by Jesuits to education and the common good of all nations in South Asia.

"Through education and research, the Jesuits still give a crucial contribution to the building of the character of Asian nations: their vision and mission have formed men and women, leaders, philosophers, thinkers, educators and politicians, who have given life for the common good of the nations to which they belong," said Father Raj.

The Dean recalled that the first educational institution of the Jesuits in the world was started in South Asia, with the founding of St. Paolo College in Goa, India in 1544.

"Education is the main tool for the integral development of the human family. It allows the individual growth of each person and helps to build the nation. Education is the answer to many socio-economic problems that we face today. For this reason educational apostolate is central to the mission of the Society of Jesus since its inception and is essential for the Jesuits in Asia," the priest explained.

"The involvement of the Jesuits in formation in South Asia is a precious heritage. The Jesuits were pioneers and vanguards in offering education to the rural poor, Dalits and tribals. Opening the doors of their institutions to all, irrespective of caste, creed, language and sex, the Jesuits have had a healthy and harmonious influence with regards to the countries of South Asia," he continued.

The Jesuit educational network in South Asia has 387 primary and secondary schools, 50 colleges and 16 high schools, all institutions known for the quality of the service offered.

Source: Agenzia Fides