Noted educationist receives first Magis Award in India

Jesuit Father John Felix Raj, Vice-Chancellor of St. Xavier’s University, Kolkata (SXUK), was honoured with the JHEASA Magis award on January 27, 2024, at St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata, at the National Jesuit Higher Education Association in South Asia conference.

Father Raj received this award for his remarkable contributions to higher education and the development of society in West Bengal, a state in eastern India.

Father Stanislaus D’Souza, President of the Jesuit Conference of South Asia, presented the Magis medal to Father Raj, while Father Joseph Christie from Rome handed over the plaque.

Father Joe Arun presented the citation, and Father Dominic Savio honoured him with a special shawl.

While receiving the award, Father Raj said, “An award reflects people’s appreciation and recognition of what one has achieved in the past and is an invitation to continue the work further for growth in the future. And I still have miles to go.”

Father Raj received the award, which was established this year.

The award coincides with his completion of 50 years as a Jesuit. He began his Jesuit training in Patna on January 2, 1974. There was a standing ovation from the audience, which included principals of Jesuit colleges, vice chancellors, professors, and alumni members.

While addressing ‘Discernment, Networking, and Collaboration’, the theme of the conference, Father Raj said, “It is important to collaborate and network with other institutions for growth, or else we must stand alone. We work to network, and network to work.”

He also praised the role of St. Xavier’s College alumni members for their generous contributions in establishing the SXUK.