This September, the Somorrostro Training Centre welcomed a visit from Xabier Retegui, an expert on the life and work of José María Arizmendiarrieta and our founder, Marcelo Gangoiti. During his visit, Retegui took part in an interview conducted by Somorrostro’s Director of Vocational Training, Javier Unzueta, in which the two discussed the relationship between the two priests, their philosophy and the social and educational legacy they left behind.
The bond between Gangoiti and Arizmendiarrieta began during their formative years. Their friendship and personal rapport were forged at the minor seminary in Arteaga and were subsequently strengthened at the seminary in Vitoria, where they were the driving forces behind a friendship group based on self-discipline, shared work and commitment. Of the various paths they could have taken, both chose to direct their priestly vocation towards work that was deeply rooted in social and community service.
Both arrived in 1941 in regions marked by the hardships of the post-war period. Arizmendiarrieta was posted to Arrasate-Mondragón and Gangoiti to Muskiz. Coming from different backgrounds, they were able to understand the needs of their respective communities and saw education – particularly vocational training – as a key tool for creating opportunities, enhancing the dignity of work and promoting economic and social development.
They shared a humanist vision based on the centrality of the individual, equal opportunities and the collective building of society. For both of them, ‘socialising knowledge’ was a fundamental requirement: education should not be reserved for the few, but made available to those who needed knowledge and skills to build their own future. From this conviction, two transformative projects emerged: the Mondragón Polytechnic School and the Somorrostro Training Centre.
Retegui also highlighted some common traits of their leadership: frugality, dedication, the ability to anticipate change, and the perseverance to turn their ideas into reality. Both knew how to inspire others, build a sense of community, and move from identifying needs to taking action.
Their legacy remains as relevant as ever. A focus on the individual, educational and technological innovation, the emancipatory value of work, and collaboration with institutions, businesses and social organisations continue to be fundamental principles. The work of Gangoiti and Arizmendiarrieta serves as a reminder that an educational institution does not merely impart knowledge: it can also become a true agent of social transformation.
