On April 29, the Faculty of Philosophy and Social Sciences at the Portuguese Catholic University in Braga hosted an online conference focused on Ignatian pedagogy, reaffirming its commitment to a well-rounded, rigorous, and socially relevant education.

The session was led by expert Fr. Alberto Núñez and was part of the educational renewal project “Renovar*te.” Aimed at faculty members, the initiative sought to encourage reflection on the role of the teacher in contemporary higher education, in a context marked by profound changes, such as digitalization and the growing need to educate students who are critical thinkers, ethical, and committed to society.

The session was led by expert Fr. Alberto Núñez and was part of the educational renewal project “Renovar*te.” Aimed at faculty members, the initiative sought to encourage reflection on the role of the teacher in contemporary higher education, in a context marked by profound changes, such as digitalization and the growing need to educate students who are critical thinkers, ethical, and committed to society.

One of the key moments was the analysis of the Ratio Studiorum, considered the first structured curriculum in the Western world. More than just a curriculum document, this model integrates teaching, human formation, and social mission, emphasizing experience, interdisciplinarity, and the shared construction of knowledge.

The session also highlighted the role of the educational community as a unique learning environment. Teachers, students, and staff are called upon to actively participate in an ecosystem that fosters dialogue, critical thinking, and a commitment to the common good.

In this context, particular emphasis was placed on the impact of Ignatian pedagogy on redefining the teacher’s role. More than just a transmitter of content, the teacher is challenged to take on the role of a guide in learning processes, attentive to the uniqueness of each student and capable of providing close and personalized support. This model requires a pedagogical practice based on listening, dialogue, and critical reflection, encouraging the active construction of knowledge.

Ignatian pedagogy also calls on educators to embrace a broader ethical and social responsibility, integrating values such as justice, service, and a commitment to the common good into their educational practice. In this sense, teaching also involves shaping students’ consciences, fostering discernment, and preparing them to bring about transformative change in society. Thus, the teacher acts not only as a conveyor of knowledge, but also as an ethical and intellectual guide in the students’ educational journey.

This initiative is part of the Faculty’s educational renewal strategy, under the Renovar*te project, which aims to address the current challenges in higher education through more human-centered, personalized, and socially impactful practices.