The International Association of Jesuit Engineering Schools (IAJES) plays a vital role in embedding a humanistic, value-based approach into technical education. Gathering 55 global educators and administrators is no small feat. Having a host like Ateneo de Manila University—renowned not only for its academic excellence but also for its deeply ingrained spirit of hospitality (magis in action)—made this collaborative endeavor incredibly seamless.

From July 8 to 10, 2026, Fr. Felix Raj and Prof. Tuhin Paul represented St. Xavier’s University, Kolkata, at this prestigious global summit. The Indian delegation comprised nine participants representing five Jesuit engineering institutions:

• Fr. Felix Raj & Prof. Tuhin Paul (SXUK)
• Fr. John Rose (Mumbai)
• Fr. Casimir & Dr. Arpita Jena (XIMUB)
• Fr. Justin Yasappan (Loyola, Chennai)
• Fr. Kiran Cotha & Prof. Ruben Raj (St. Aloysius, Mangalore)
• Prof. Castellino Roshan (SJU, Bangalore)

Theme: “Down from the Hill”

The central theme, "Down from the Hill," highlighted a collective call to action for Jesuit engineering institutions to step beyond traditional academic boundaries. Discussions focused heavily on translating academic excellence, ethical leadership, and human-centered innovation into tangible, field-tested impacts for marginalized communities.

Integral Ecology and Global Mission

Aligned with the broader mission of the International Association of Jesuit Universities (IAJU), the summit heavily integrated discussions around Laudato Si’ and integral ecology. Academic tracks sought to align advanced technological developments—such as AI infrastructure, healthcare engineering, and clean energy—with environmental justice and sustainability.

Regional Growth and Governance

As a major convening for the IAJES-Asia Pacific region, the summit provided an essential space to review regional benchmarks and expand the network of participating universities. The delegates also addressed key governance transitions, laying the groundwork for the next two-year action plan and subsequent institutional leadership structures.

Significance of the Summit

This summit stands as a cornerstone for global engineering education under the Ignatian tradition. It firmly emphasizes that modern engineering must prioritize human dignity, social justice, and ecological balance over technological advancement alone.

Conclusion

The event was marked by the exceptional hospitality and outstanding organization of the host team at Ateneo de Manila University. More importantly, it served as an invaluable forum for global educators to align their visions, share ongoing initiatives, and lay the robust groundwork for meaningful international partnerships and collaborations in engineering education.