Directory publication, institutional recognition and academic initiatives mark a significant milestone in Catholic higher education in India
NV Paulose, Chairman, Global TV +91 98441 82044
PALA: As the Xavier Board of Higher Education in India (XBHEI) prepares to celebrate its Platinum Jubilee, the 75-year milestone represents much more than a commemoration of its past. The initiatives planned as part of the celebrations reflect a renewed commitment to strengthening institutional collaboration, preserving educational heritage, recognizing excellence and preparing higher education for the challenges of the future.
The Platinum Jubilee celebrations and the 2026 Annual General Body Meeting, scheduled from November 6 to 8 at St. Joseph’s College of Engineering and Technology (SJCET), Palai (Autonomous), are expected to bring together academicians, educationists and representatives of Catholic higher educational institutions from across the country. Among the notable initiatives is the publication of a comprehensive Directory of the Xavier Board, an important step towards strengthening communication, institutional networking and cooperation among its member institutions.
The Directory is expected to serve as a valuable reference document, bringing together institutional information and helping create a stronger network among Catholic higher educational institutions. At a time when collaboration and knowledge-sharing are increasingly important in higher education, such an initiative can provide a practical foundation for collective academic advancement.
The publication of a book documenting the history of the Xavier Board is another significant contribution of the Platinum Jubilee. By recording the Board’s institutional journey, achievements and contributions, the initiative seeks to preserve its rich legacy for future generations. It is also an opportunity for younger educators and institutional leaders to understand the vision, dedication and collective efforts that shaped the organization over the decades.
The celebrations will also recognize the contributions of former Presidents and Secretary Generals of the Board. This gesture acknowledges the leadership and commitment of those who have guided the organization through different phases of its development. The recognition of past leaders underscores the importance of continuity, institutional memory and shared responsibility in sustaining a long-standing educational movement.
Recognition of excellence and emerging talent
The introduction of the Xavier Board National Excellence Awards 2026 is another noteworthy initiative aimed at encouraging quality, innovation and institutional achievement among its member institutions. The recognition of institutions that have demonstrated outstanding performance can inspire others to pursue higher standards in academic administration, research, student development and community engagement.
The proposed recognition of Xavier Board Week’s best-performing institutions, together with essay competitions for faculty members and students, further broadens the scope of the celebrations. These initiatives encourage intellectual engagement, creative expression and participation across different levels of the academic community. By creating opportunities for both faculty and students to contribute, the Board reinforces the idea that educational excellence is a collective endeavour involving institutional leadership, teachers and learners.
Academic deliberations for a changing India
The academic sessions planned for November 7 reflect the Board’s intention to connect its historical legacy with contemporary educational priorities. The keynote address by Shri Srijan Pal Singh, Founder of the Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Centre and CEO of Homi Lab, will focus on “Reimagining Higher Education for India@2047: Innovation, Leadership and Human Flourishing.” The theme is particularly relevant as India moves towards the centenary of its Independence. Higher educational institutions are increasingly expected to nurture innovation, ethical leadership, entrepreneurship and socially responsible citizens alongside academic achievement.
The sessions featuring Shri A.H. Sagar, Dr. Fr. Thomas C. Mathew and Shri T. K. Jose IAS will address critical thinking, artificial intelligence, teaching and learning pedagogies, institutional strategy and youth entrepreneurship. Together, these discussions offer an opportunity for member institutions to reflect on how higher education can respond to technological transformation while remaining rooted in human values, intellectual integrity and social responsibility.
A legacy of service and a renewed commitment
The Platinum Jubilee celebrations are being held at SJCET Palai, bringing together the academic community and the wider educational leadership of the country. The inaugural ceremony on November 6 will be attended by His Eminence Anthony Cardinal Poola, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India, and Shri Roji M. John, Minister for Higher Education, Keralam. The programme will also feature the participation of Church leaders and representatives of the Xavier Board.
The celebrations will conclude on November 8 with the Annual General Body Meeting and valedictory function, providing an opportunity for the Board to reflect on its achievements and deliberate on its future priorities. The Platinum Jubilee initiatives collectively demonstrate how an institutional milestone can become an occasion for meaningful renewal. The Directory will strengthen connections, the history book will preserve institutional memory, the awards will encourage excellence, and the academic sessions will stimulate fresh thinking.
As the Xavier Board enters the next phase of its journey, its Platinum Jubilee offers a timely reminder that the true value of an educational legacy lies not only in what has been achieved, but also in the opportunities it creates for future generations. The celebration is a tribute to 75 years of service and a renewed commitment to building a more connected, innovative, inclusive and value-oriented future for higher education in India.
