Anglican theological educators from across Africa met in Botswana to explore the future of theological education for the Anglican church, given many changes of recent years across the continent. While this was mostly concerned with residential Anglican seminaries and colleges, TEE College was invited to present alongside the TEE programme in Zambia in demonstrating alternative models for theological education.
This was facilitated by USPG in the United Kingdom, an agency involved in many parts of the continent and in partnership with many of those present.
We, a group of church leaders and theological educators … met in Gaborone, Botswana for a summit on ‘The future of Theological Education in Africa’. Hosted by the Diocese of Botswana in the Anglican Church of Central Africa, the summit aimed to map the current theological education landscape in different African contexts, identify contemporary challenges and reflect together on ways to strengthen and sustain theological education. Our time together was marked by prayer, conversation, conviviality and networking.
Preamble to the Summit Joint communique
It was a valuable time of hearing presentations of the work of theological education, expressed in a range of ways, from varied contexts, across the continent. It was also opportunity to share challenges, frustrations, concerns, and hopes. Connecting with the people personally involved helped give concrete expression to local and regional issues being explored.
New connections were made as old friendships and contacts over many years were also re-affirmed.
A 4-year action plan is evolving from the work accomplished together. This considers the broad range of challenges and contexts within which theological educators grapple with the tasks entrusted to them, while seeking to provide platforms of support and shareable resources that will equip this important work.
TEE College appreciates its working relationship with Southern African churches, including the Anglican church, and enjoys participating in ecumenical bridge-building (which is part of the College’s ethos) for the work of theological education.