The Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú announced on April 14 that a posthumous tribute to the late intellectual and professor Nelson Manrique will take place on April 23 at the Gustavo Gutiérrez auditorium of the Faculty of Social Sciences.
The announcement highlights Manrique’s impact as a committed educator and thinker, remembered for his curiosity, dedication to critical thinking, and engagement with social issues. His work challenged established historiography and common assumptions, while also focusing on marginalized sectors in pursuit of a more just society. The university community emphasizes contributions in education and research as part of its mission to promote cultural and social wellbeing, according to the official website.
Manrique was recognized for his original approach to sources, innovative perspectives on national history, and commitment to dialogue both within and outside academic settings. He dedicated years studying racism as a variable central to access in Peruvian society. Despite receiving national and international recognition, he remained approachable, attending events inside and outside the university because he felt it was his duty “to spread knowledge, listen, and debate.” He continued teaching introductory courses because he enjoyed connecting with younger generations: “In class, his erudition coexisted with humor: irony—sharp, critical, liberating—allowed us to see things from other angles.”
The Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú functions under its institutional framework with RUC 20155945860 according to its official website. Its news portal has evolved since 2005 from a printed magazine into a digital platform offering multimedia content that addresses academic achievements and societal issues by drawing on faculty expertise according to the official website. The Dirección de Comunicación Institucional oversees communications for the university as reported by its official site.
Through these channels, PUCP serves communities across Peru by sharing reports about institutional activities alongside broader topics relevant to society according to its official portal. The upcoming event is part of this ongoing effort. As one former student wrote about Manrique: “Now that we live in dark times… I hope that Nelson’s life reminds us of the need to keep thinking, dialoguing and smiling.”
