Arrupe Jesuit University (AJU) officially opened the 2026/2027 academic year on Saturday, 22 August 2026, with the Opening Academic Assembly held at the Loyola Multipurpose Hall. The gathering brought together students, staff and guests as the University community began the new academic year in a spirit of reflection, celebration and renewed commitment to its mission.
Held under the University’s motto, “Ever to Love and to Serve,” the assembly provided an opportunity for the AJU community to come together, welcome the new academic year and reflect on the values that shape life at the University.
The programme began with an opening prayer led by Fr Hector Mukwato, S.J., followed by the National Anthem led by the AJU Choir. Ms Tsitsi Wakatama delivered the welcome remarks, while AJUSA President Casper Mabvundwi addressed the gathering on behalf of the students.
T Dr Stephen Buckland, S.J., gave the Vice Chancellor address, setting the tone for the new academic year. This was followed by the introduction of the Guest of Honour, Rev. Fr Wilfred Sumani, S.J., who delivered an insightful address.
Reflecting on the Life and Spirituality of St Ignatius
One of the highlights of the assembly was a video reflection on St Ignatius prepared by AJU Communications. The reflection was delivered by Fr Roland von Nidda, S.J., Spiritual Father of the Jesuit Community, and offered the AJU community an opportunity to pause and reflect on the life and spirituality of St Ignatius as the University began a new academic year.
The reflection provided a meaningful link between the University’s Jesuit identity and the journey ahead for students and staff. It encouraged the community to begin the academic year with a renewed sense of purpose and an appreciation of the values that underpin the University’s mission.
The assembly continued with the induction of the pledge, a musical interlude by the AJU Choir and the AJU Anthem before the formal programme concluded with closing remarks and a vote of thanks by Dr Saliwe Nkomo.
Celebrating St Ignatius Through Holy Mass
The Opening Assembly was followed by Holy Mass and the celebration of St Ignatius Day, bringing together the spiritual and communal dimensions of the occasion.
The Rector of Arrupe University Jesuit Community, Fr Chioma Nwosu, S.J was the Main Celebrant, while Fr Oderick R. Mweemba, S.J., delivered the homily.
The Mass provided an opportunity for the AJU community to give thanks and place the new academic year before God. It also offered a fitting moment to celebrate the life and legacy of St Ignatius of Loyola, whose spirituality continues to shape the University’s identity and approach to education.
The celebration brought the day’s activities to a close in a spirit of faith, fellowship and gratitude, with members of the University community sharing lunch and refreshments afterwards.
As the 2026/2027 academic year begins, the Opening Assembly served as more than a formal start to the academic calendar. It was a moment for the AJU community to reconnect with its mission, celebrate its Jesuit identity and look ahead to the year with renewed commitment.
For AJU, the journey continues with a simple but profound invitation: Ever to Love and to Serve.