The recent election of Rev. Fr. Praveen Martis SJ as President has brought new attention to the Xavier Board of Higher Education in India. This important body has guided Catholic higher education in the country for more than seventy years. XBHEI is not an administrative council and a strong network of over 400 institutions working together with a shared mission to provide value-based education.
A Historical Foundation Rooted in Faith and Service
The Xavier Board was established in 1948 by visionary Jesuit educators. They saw the need for a single body to coordinate and improve Catholic higher education across India. The Board’s roots lie in the Jesuit tradition of faith and justice. Its goal has always been to form men and women who serve others with compassion and integrity.
Over the years, the Board was guided by many dedicated Jesuits who served as its secretary. They provided direction, continuity, and daily management. Some of the key leaders include Fr. John D’Lima SJ, Fr. L. A. Mendonca SJ, Fr. J. L. D’Souza SJ, Fr. L. M. John SJ, Fr. J. B. D’Mello SJ, Fr. L. A. D’Silva SJ, Fr. J. L. R. Lopes SJ, and several others. Among them, Fr. Francis P. Xavier SJ offered long and devoted service until his passing in 2022. His years of leadership brought stability and dedication to the Board’s mission.
A Structural Evolution: From Secretary to President
In recent years, the Xavier Board introduced the position of President to provide stronger national leadership and strategic direction. The first person to hold this position was Rev. Dr. Stany D’Souza SJ.
Rev. Dr. Stany D’Souza was a respected Jesuit educator who led the Board during a challenging time. His leadership focused on unity and adaptation, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. He encouraged Catholic colleges to stay rooted in their values while responding to the fast-changing world of education.
The Present Leadership: A Unanimous Mandate for Collaboration
In 2025, the Board elected Rev. Fr. Praveen Martis SJ as its new President. His election was unanimous, showing the trust and support of all members. Fr. Martis brings fresh energy and a cooperative vision to the Xavier Board. His idea of a “Resource Mountain” calls for piling resources, knowledge, and alumni networks of all member institutions for the benefit of the needy, individuals and institutions. This concept reflects his belief in shared growth and collective strength. Assisting him in this effort is Fr. S. Maria Arokiaraj SJ, who serves as the Secretary of the Board and manages its daily activities.
A Broader Circle of Influence
The Xavier Board is also supported by Vice-Presidents and Executive Committee members from leading Catholic colleges across India. These leaders bring experience, diversity, and regional representation to the Board. Among them are Dr. (Fr.) John Rose SJ, Principal of St. Joseph’s College in Bengaluru; Fr. Sajan George, a senior Jesuit educator; Dr. (Fr.) Binny Mary Palamthattel, Rector of St. Berchmans College, Changanassery; and Dr. (Fr.) Maxim D’Lima, Principal of St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai. Their participation ensures that colleges from every region, from Mangalore to Mizoram, have a voice in shaping the future of Catholic education.
Steering Catholic Education into the Future
Under the leadership of Fr. Praveen Martis SJ, the Xavier Board is entering a new phase of growth and collaboration. It carries forward a rich legacy built over seventy-six years by generations of committed educators. Today, the Board focuses on working together for national progress, promoting entrepreneurship, and recognizing the long history of Catholic contributions to education in India. It continues to act as the guiding spirit for Catholic higher education, helping institutions stay relevant, excellent, and transformative in service to society.
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