AJU Symposium 2026 and Arrupe Day Celebration
By: Wisdom Ukelo, SJ
From 4 to 6 February 2026, Arrupe Jesuit University (AJU) hosted a symposium under the theme “Holistic Human Development through Education, Science, and the Humanities.” The event brought together students and staff members who presented academic papers on a variety of topics related to the theme.
Three of the Aorians presented papers during the AJU Symposium 2026. Sch. Wisdom Ukelo, SJ presented on Ubuntu and Human-Centred Computing; Sch. Elias Arkangelo, SJ presented on Bioethics and Biotechnology through an Ignatian Lens: Cura Personalis, Ethical Responsibility, and the Common Good; and Sch. Andrew Sserugo, SJ presented on Digital Transformation: Its Impact on Human Identity and Relationships.
The presentations encouraged intellectual exchange and highlighted the university’s commitment to forming well-rounded individuals capable of responding to contemporary challenges.
The climax of the gathering came on 6 February, when the university celebrated Arrupe Day in memory of Fr. Pedro Arrupe.
One of the major highlights of the day was the Miss and Mr. Arrupe competition, a new initiative organized by the Student Association. Four female contestants and six male contestants appeared on the stage in three categories: traditional attire, sportswear, and dinner wear. After these displays, contestants took part in a quiz session.
At the close of the competition, the winners were crowned: Mr. Arrupe, Yamiko Magolowondo from the AJU ICT Department, and Ms. Arrupe, Mildret Mashesheshe from the AJU Accounting and Management Department.
The audience appreciated the confidence, creativity, and cultural pride shown by all the contestants.
The celebration also featured a lively zumba dance session, which brought together students and staff in a moment of joy, movement, and community exercise.
And so, the symposium and Arrupe Day celebrations were a success, blending academic reflection, cultural expression, and community engagement.
Gathering of the East African Community in Zimbabwe
On Sunday, 15 February 2026, the AORians in the AJU community organized East African Mass that brought together AORians and East African nationals working in Harare. The celebration offered a special opportunity for participants to gather in prayer and worship as one family.
The Mass was presided over by Tobias Dindi, SJ, a lecturer at AJU and Acting Minister of the AJU community, and concelebrated by Amani Ezekiel from the Diocese of Bukavu in DRC, who is currently pursuing his studies at AJU.
Fr. Tobias Dindi, SJ reminded us in his homily that true discernment starts within, choosing Christ’s wisdom over worldly ways, rejecting revenge, and walking the path of peace.
After the liturgy, members of the East African community proceeded to the university hall for lunch and socials. It was indeed a joyful and vibrant gathering where AORians interacted with members from different East African countries in a spirit of unity.
Ash Wednesday Mass at Arrupe Jesuit University Community
On Wednesday, 18 February 2026, the Arrupe Jesuit University Community gathered to celebrate Ash Wednesday Mass. The celebration brought together members of the AJU Jesuit community and faithful from the surrounding neighbourhood to participate in the Eucharist and begin the Lenten season together.
The Mass was led by Fr. Itua Egbor, SJ, who in his homily encouraged the faithful to embrace inner conversion and spiritual renewal during this sacred season of Lent. He invited all present to reflect deeply, repent sincerely, and draw closer to God through prayer, fasting, and acts of charity.
Wishing you all a blessed Lenten season. May this sacred time of prayer, reflection, and sacrifice strengthen our faith, renew our hearts, and inspire us to serve others with love. May God continue to guide and journey with us in all our missions and apostolates, filling our efforts with grace and fruitfulness, all for the greater glory of His Name.