Champion of Education and Social Justice
The impact of effective principals is stronger and broader than previously understood in today’s dynamic educational environment. Especially considering a country like India where students are graduating on a massive scale without actual skill or knowledge, the need of the hour is a capable leader who can lead towards change, and the principal is perhaps the most apt person to take up this role. Emphasizing on one such God Loving personality who as the principal of St. Xavier’s College, Burdwan, envisions to instill culture, discipline and a unique style, Rev. Fr. Dr. G. Paul Arockiam S.J., shines bright among other most prominent principals in higher education featured this year.
From the Scratch
Rev. Fr. Dr. G. Paul Arockiam S.J., was born in the village of Mugaiyur, where he attended St. Francis Xavier School until class five. He then moved to St. Ann’s Higher Secondary School in Tindivanam, completing his education there up to class 12. This boarding school played a significant role in shaping his life, instilling strictness, punctuality, and discipline. He fondly remembers Fr. Andrew Carof, a French missionary, for his commendable contribution to his development.
The most important person in Fr. Paul’s life was his father, Mr. D. Gnanathickam, a former soldier who became a teacher. His father taught him the same ideals and was a strong disciplinarian. Fr. Paul treasures his father’s love and compassion for him, as well as the memories of him teaching him English till class five. He eventually decided to seek further studies in botany because of his innate passion in the subject.
Struggles to Success
Fr. Paul was not a gifted student until class 10, but by graduation, he made great progress and routinely received First Class grades. Prior to choosing to become a member of the Society of Jesus, he earned his B.Ed. Following his studies, he worked for five years as a teacher at Kolkata’s St. Xavier’s School. He then attended St. Joseph’s College in Tiruchirappalli to pursue an MSc.
During this period, Mr. M. Senthil Kumar, now the Head of the Biotechnology Department at St. Xavier’s College, Burdwan, was his best companion. One notable anecdote from this time involves his struggle with practical classes on Genetics for the CIA. Initially, he faced humiliation from his teachers in front of younger classmates due to his inability to grasp the practical aspects. This motivated him to work harder, and ultimately, he achieved a perfect score of 50 out of 50 in the final CIA examination.
Fr. Paul believes that education is not just about scores but about the overall formation of a person. He emphasizes that teaching should instill wisdom, compassion, and encouragement for students’ betterment. The education he received taught him the importance of influencing others positively, leading with compassion, and empowering others to walk before him in life.
Journey towards St. Xavier’s College, Burdwan
Having been associated with St. Xavier’s School since January 2, 2002, and dedicated 22 years to the institution, Fr. Paul’s vision was always to establish a college, particularly one that would cater to the needs of rural students. This vision materialized in 2014 with the founding of a new college, which has successfully completed ten years.
As the Principal-Secretary
Rev. Fr. Dr. G. Paul Arockiam S.J., currently serves as the Principal and Secretary, overseeing both administrative and academic responsibilities. He manages the CIAs and examinations while also handling staff recruitment, a role that demands his full commitment.
Under his leadership, the college ensures regular classes and fosters strong student-teacher relationships. Continuous evaluation is emphasized through mid-semester and end-semester exams. Additionally, student seminars and opportunities for learning beyond the textbook, such as add-on and certificate courses, are conducted to prepare students for life and their future careers.
Moreover, despite facing financial crises, faculty turnover, and occasional lack of seriousness among students regarding their future, Fr. Paul’s commitment and hard work have accelerated the institution’s growth. By adhering to the Jesuit principles, he strives to ensure the institution’s continuous development and relevance, overcoming challenges with the grace of God.
On a Personal Note
On a personal front, Fr. Paul maintains a disciplined routine, a habit developed during his boarding school days. He ensures he has dinner by 7:30 to 8:00 PM and is in bed by 9:00 PM, waking up early to begin his work.
Also, Rev. Fr. Dr. G. Paul Arockiam S.J., has always been dedicated to serving the underprivileged. He spent a year with tribal students in Kalna, focusing on their well-being and education, an experience he fondly remembers. And last but not least, Fr. Paul has also been associated with the PURNODAYA TRUST in Trichy, run by an executive trustee named Kalai Arasi a differently-abled friend that provides a home and school for the differently-abled.