Vice-Chancellor of St. Xavier’s University Wins Tagore Award in the UK

Kolkata, October 12, 2025 — Fr. John Felix Raj, Vice-Chancellor of St. Xavier’s University, Kolkata (SXUK), has been honoured with the prestigious Tagore Award in the United Kingdom for his lifetime achievements in education and leadership.

The award ceremony was held on 10 October at the House of Lords, Palace of Westminster, London, during the Thought Leadership Summit organised by the Global Collaboration Forum, Indi Setu. The award, named after Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore (1861–1941), recognises individuals who have made outstanding contributions in their respective fields while embodying Tagore’s vision of global harmony and intellectual excellence.

Fr. Raj received the award from Dr Amit Ghose, Founder-Director of Indi Setu, and Manik Dey of London, in the presence of an esteemed audience of international dignitaries, including British parliamentarians.

Expressing his gratitude, Fr. Raj said, “I accept this award as a recognition of the good work being done and an acknowledgement of the goodwill that exists among people.” He further added, “Every dream, despite opposition, can become a reality with the support and participation of those around us. We simply need to take bold steps forward.”

During his visit to the United Kingdom, Fr. Raj will also visit the University of Sussex on 13 October to strengthen academic collaborations and explore new avenues of partnership between St. Xavier’s University and the University of Sussex.

A distinguished educationist, author, and economist, Fr. Raj, aged 71, is the founding Vice-Chancellor of St. Xavier’s University, Kolkata. Over the years, he has played a pivotal role in advancing Jesuit education in India and has been instrumental in fostering international academic collaborations.

Before assuming leadership at St. Xavier’s University, Fr. Raj served in several key capacities at St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata — as Rector, Vice-Principal, and Principal — contributing significantly to the institution’s academic and infrastructural growth.

His recognition with the Tagore Award not only celebrates his individual achievements but also highlights the enduring global relevance of Indian higher education institutions inspired by Tagore’s legacy of enlightenment and inclusivity.

By Catholic Connect Reporter

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