St Aloysius Gonzaga (SAG) Institute of Higher Studies in Taunggyi, Myanmar received the St Peter Canisius Medal during the International Association of Jesuit Universities (IAJU) conference held at the Pontificia Universidad Javeriana in Bogota from 30 June to 3 July.

The St Peter Canisius Medal is awarded to an institution, individual, or group from each Jesuit conference that has demonstrated exceptional commitment to Jesuit higher education. Medallists are recognised for their resilience, willingness to engage and accompany, and courage in the face of hostility, embodying the Society’s four Universal Apostolic Preferences. SAG was honoured for its heroic and innovative efforts to promote higher education in an extremely challenging context.

Taunggyi, the capital city of Shan State, is home to a diverse mix of ethnic groups. SAG students come from Kayah, Kachin, Intha, Karen, Shan, and other ethnic minorities. The institute offers scholarships to students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, and those from remote areas are provided with board and lodging at the college hostel. The students also benefit from the Ignatian approach to teaching, which nurtures their critical thinking skills and helps them realise their full potential in the service of their communities. This mission is vital in Myanmar, which has returned to military rule since 2021. The ongoing political violence has displaced over 3.5 million people, with nearly 20 million people now in need of humanitarian assistance.

Since 2012, SAG has had a partnership with Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) in the Philippines, in particular with AdDU’s School of Education, in offering an integrated programme in the liberal arts, humanities, and social sciences. Taught in English, the programme leads to a Diploma in Education and Professional Education Certificate for students who fulfil the curriculum’s requirements.

Fr Ernald Andal SJ, President of Ateneo de Zamboanga University and trustee of Ateneo de Davao University, received the award on behalf of SAG.

“The absence of our SAG Director (at the IAJU conference) due to visa issues speaks volumes of our vulnerable situation,” said Myanmar Regional Superior Fr Girish Santiago SJ. Nevertheless, he acknowledged the collaborative efforts between SAG and AdDU. “We are humbled and wish to continue serving in this noble educational mission as a beacon of hope here in Myanmar.”