From the 1st to the 3rd of July the University of Deusto hosted the annual Kircher Network General Assembly. This year’s assembly brought together representatives from our member institutions to discuss our achievements, set strategic priorities, and plan for the future.
The main goals for this year’s assembly were six:
- Decision on the approval of the Strategic Plan
- Report on the Network’s developments and finances and discussion of the 2024-2025 budget proposal
- Inform and reflect on the situation and future goals of the Jesuit Higher Education Apostolate in Europe and globally
- Reflect on the impacts of AI on Jesuit Higher Education in Europe and share best practices in using AI in institutions
- Unveil potential opportunities within university member institutions for partnerships and collaboration
- Share best practices and reflections on strategies for addressing the challenges of theology and philosophy schools in Europe and Lebanon
Key Highlights:
- Opening and Keynote Speeches:
Dalibor Renić, SJ, President of the JCEP, delivered an insightful keynote on «The Jesuit University Apostolate in Europe: Calls and Expectations of the Society of Jesus.»
Dr. Annick Castiaux, Rector of the University of Namur, discussed «Impacts of AI on Higher Education: Responsible Innovation.»
- Annual Report Approval:
The Assembly approved the report and the execution of the budget.
- Strategic Plan 2024-2028:
The new Strategic Plan was unanimously approved, addressing key areas such as strengthening Jesuit identity, enhancing research and teaching through HEST clusters, and improving faculty and staff training programs.
- Brainstorming and Collaborative Projects:
Participants engaged in group brainstorming sessions to identify potential joint projects for 2024-2028. The Kircher Council will review these proposals and outline the next steps for their development and implementation.
- Future Assemblies:
The next General Assembly will be hosted by the Munich School of Philosophy from October 10-12, 2025. Special events will include a mass with Cardinal Reinhard Marx and Father General Arturo Sosa SJ, as well as a ceremonial act at the Munich School of Philosophy.
Major Initiatives and Programs:
- Canisius Formation: A course on the identity and mission of Jesuit higher education institutions, successfully engaging participants from across Europe.
- HEST Clusters: Focused on Christian-Muslim relations and secularization, with ongoing projects and an upcoming study week in June 2024.
- Faculty and Staff Training: Erasmus BIP projects and international training weeks have been instrumental in enhancing educational practices and inclusion challenges in Europe.
- Communication Enhancement: Improved dissemination activities have broadened engagement and awareness of the network’s initiatives.
We thank all participants for their contributions and look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts to advance the mission of Jesuit Higher Education in Europe.