25 November 2025
Bilbao Campus
On 25 November, the University of Deusto held a ceremony to recognise all the people, companies and organisations that have contributed to the Deusto Arrupe Grants. Since its creation in 2021, these grants have had a direct impact on the lives of 100 students from various countries and more than 30 degree programmes, who, through this shared commitment that transcends socioeconomic barriers and fosters talent, can study at Deusto free of charge. "One hundred stories and one hundred futures moving forward thanks to this programme".
For all these reasons, as Rector Juan José Etxeberria expressed, this gathering is not merely an academic event; above all, it is a community occasion and a space to acknowledge what generosity, justice, and trust can achieve when united. The Deusto Arrupe Grants embody the very essence of university commitment: "uniting academic excellence, social justice and opportunity".
For the Rector, the grant recipients are “the reason for this project,” and they were reminded that they are “privileged individuals” for having received an opportunity that others do not have. He added that their study, dedication, and effort are the best response to the support received and expressed his hope that they will give back to society a portion of what they have gained.
"The Arrupe Grants are not a gift. They are a shared responsibility," he said. In his speech, he also expressed gratitude to the families, the donors, and the collaborating companies and organisations because, as St Ignatius of Loyola said, love should be shown more in deeds than in words, and together “you have offered a living testimony of this love through your actions”. The Rector's speech
One step further
Over the years, Deusto has raised more than €2 million for the Deusto Arrupe Grants through private donations and the University’s own funds, reflecting trust, solidarity, and a strong commitment to equal opportunities. For the 2025–2026 academic year, the University aims to reach an endowment of €842,479, the result of the joint effort between the academic centre and all the individuals and organisations that believe in this project. A challenge that will allow it to continue offering new grants and increasing their impact. Deusto is a community of people, students, donors, and companies united by a shared purpose, believing in “the transformative power of education and that every gesture, however small, opens doors.”
More information on this initiative: www.deusto.es/colabora.
