Honouring the Legacy, Living the Mission, and Shaping the Future
NV Paulose, Chairman, Global TV +91 98441 82044
An editorial conversation with Rev. Dr. Praveen Martis, SJ, Vice Chancellor of St. Aloysius (Deemed to be University) and President of the Xavier Board of Higher Education in India, reveals a vision for higher education that goes far beyond academic degrees. Sitting down with him to discuss the upcoming Xavier Board Week 2026, one is immediately struck by his calm conviction. For Dr. Martis, education is not a mere transaction of information or a pathway to professional success. It is a spiritual and moral journey intended to transform human lives.
During our discussion, Dr. Martis reflected on the foundational spirit of the Xavier Board. He emphasized that the institution was built by visionaries who saw higher education as a mission of service and nation-building. Leaders such as Father Jerome D Souza, Father Melchior Balaguer, Father John Vallamattam, and Professor V V John did not design institutions simply to award certificates. They sought to nurture men and women who would lead society with integrity, courage, and deep empathy. Dr. Martis pointed out that this founding philosophy remains as relevant today as it was seven decades ago.
In our conversation, the Vice Chancellor spoke passionately about the theme for Xavier Board Week 2026, which runs from September seventh to thirteenth. He noted that honoring a legacy requires active living rather than quiet sentiment. The week is designed around direct community engagement and practical action. Initiatives such as planting seventy five saplings across campuses symbolize a commitment to environmental care and sustainable futures. Furthermore, requiring students to dedicate fourteen hours to community service and rural outreach ensures that learning extends well past the classroom walls. Dr. Martis believes that when students step into rural communities to offer support, they learn invaluable lessons about social responsibility and human dignity.
The discussion also touched upon the rapidly evolving educational landscape, particularly the rise of artificial intelligence and digital innovation. Dr. Martis observed that while technological advancement brings incredible possibilities, it must always be guided by strong moral values. He stressed that higher education must equip young people to navigate modern tools without losing their moral compass. Technology should serve human dignity, foster social justice, and build inclusive peace in a diverse nation.
Ultimately, our interaction with Rev. Dr. Praveen Martis, SJ, highlights the core message of Xavier Board Week. Education fulfills its highest purpose when it inspires individuals to lift others as they climb. By grounding academic excellence in service, faith, and ethical leadership, institutions can continue to shape light bringers who will guide the future of the nation.
National Essay Writing Competition Member institutions hold an essay contest for both faculty and students. Faculty write on “75 Years of Values and Vision: Navigating AI and Educational Reforms through the Xavier Board’s Legacy of Social Justice and Excellence” (2,500–3,500 words). Students address “75 Years of Legacy and Beyond: Empowering Youth as Catalysts for Digital Innovation, Environmental Stewardship, and Inclusive Peace in a Pluralistic India” (1,500–2,500 words). Entries follow APA 7th edition guidelines, require institutional verification, and compete for top essay and top institute awards.
Green Initiative (Planting 75 Saplings) To encourage environmental responsibility, participating campuses organize a tree planting drive. Faculty and students plant 75 saplings on their grounds to promote sustainability and care for nature.
Educational Leadership Seminar Institutions host specialized seminars focused on value-based educational leadership. These sessions aim to guide leaders, transform academic environments, and discuss strategies for shaping value-driven institutions.
Founders’ Day Candlelight Remembrance A solemn candlelight service is conducted to honor the pioneers of the Xavier Board, including Rev. Fr. Jerome D’Souza SJ, Rev. Fr. Melchior M. Balaguer SJ, Rev. Dr. John Vallamattam, and Prof. V. V. John. The event focuses on prayer, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to their original vision.
14 Hours of Community Service & Rural Outreach Students and faculty engage in 14 hours of direct community service to promote compassion and solidarity with marginalized groups. Alongside this, campuses adopt a rural college and carry out three capability enhancement programs to support rural education.
