Canadian Jesuits International (CJI) joins civil society organizations, NGOs, schools, philanthropic sectors and other Canadians in celebrating our joint efforts to build a just and peaceful world. International Development Week (February 1 to 7) is a unique Canadian tradition that began in 1991 to inform, inspire and encourage Canadians to contribute to international development efforts, particularly in the Global South.
CJI highlights the work of its Jesuit partners in Africa, Asia, Middle East, and Latin America and the Caribbean who help advance the right to education, especially among the poor and marginalized. CJI also supports partner projects that promote ecology and sustainability; human rights, democratic participation and peacebuilding; and the rights of forcibly displaced people.
For example, in South Sudan, the Jesuit Eastern Africa Province operates nine education institutes, schools and centres that improve access to education for women and girls, increase the quality of education and learning outcomes through teacher training.
At Loyola Secondary School in Wau, teenage girls are given a chance to break the cycle of poverty by receiving quality secondary education, while reducing the risk of early pregnancy and early marriage. At St. Peter Claver Ecological and Computer Center (SPCECC), youth in Rumbek can increase their employment prospects by taking courses in subjects such as English, mechanics, solar and electrical installation, construction, plumbing, and computers.
Millions of people who live in poverty and are forcibly displaced by war, persecution and climate disasters are suffering more than ever following an unprecedented decision in 2025 by some wealthy nations to abruptly cut foreign aid.
In response, institutions such as CJI have redoubled their efforts and commitment to “a faith that does justice,” all made possible through the generosity of our Canadian donors and others, and the commitment of our Jesuit partners. Their acts of solidarity have brought hope and change to those who need them the most.
Learn more about CJI-supported projects, including how you can support them: https://bit.ly/CJIPrograms
