Scholars, educators, and leaders from the Society of the Divine Word (SVD)-administered universities across Asia and the Pacific convened in Kupang, Indonesia, for the inaugural SVD Asia-Pacific (ASPAC) University Conference.
Hosted by Universitas Widya Mandira (UNWIRA), the conference marked a pivotal moment in SVD’s 150-year educational mission, examining the influence of Catholic higher education on faith, knowledge, and community development.
With the theme “SVD at 150: Catholicity and the Impact of SVD-Administered Universities on Communities,” the event brought together representatives from institutions dedicated to academic excellence and missionary service.
Running from February 20 to 22, the conference featured insightful presentations by SVD academics and scholars, all exploring themes aligned with the mission of Catholic education. The event underscored the vital role of SVD universities in shaping students intellectually and spiritually while fostering a commitment to service and social responsibility.
The gathering commenced with a solemn Eucharistic celebration at St. Hendrikus Ballroom, presided over by Fr. Ubaldus Djonda, SVD, Chairman of Yayasan Pendidikan Katolik Arnoldus (YAPENKAR), which oversees Catholic education in Kupang.
In his homily, Fr. Djonda emphasized the mission of Catholic universities as institutions that go beyond academic pursuits, nurturing values rooted in faith and human dignity.
Citing Pope John Paul II’s apostolic constitution Ex Corde Ecclesiae, he reminded attendees that Catholic education is a mission of truth and cultural enrichment, uniting reason and faith in the pursuit of knowledge and service.
A grand ceremony at UNWIRA's main hall officially opened the conference following the Mass. Divine Word Fr. Philipus Tule, UNWIRA's rector, welcomed the participants and underscored the importance of Catholic universities in fostering holistic education—one that nurtures both intellect and compassion.
The event saw the presence of esteemed delegates from leading SVD-administered institutions, including:
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Nanzan University (Japan)
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Fu Jen Catholic University (Taiwan)
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University of San Carlos (Philippines)
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Holy Name University (Philippines)
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Divine Word University (Papua New Guinea)
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Institute of Philosophy and Creative Technology (IFTK) Ledalero (Indonesia)
A symbolic gong ceremony marked the official commencement of the conference, signifying new beginnings and a strengthened commitment to academic and missionary collaboration.
Tule also presented tokens of appreciation to the university presidents, recognizing their contributions to Catholic education and their shared mission of forming future leaders with strong moral and ethical foundations.
The opening day concluded with a formal dinner where delegates exchanged insights, experiences, and aspirations. What began as an academic gathering soon transformed into a reaffirmation of a common calling: to shape individuals who are intellectually capable, deeply faithful, and committed to serving their communities.
As the conference unfolds, participants look forward to in-depth discussions on the evolving role of Catholic universities, collaborative initiatives, and the challenges of maintaining faith-based education in an ever-changing world.
The event is not just a celebration of SVD’s 150 years in education but a renewed commitment to its legacy—empowering communities through knowledge, faith, and service.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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