EGST Joined NetACT

EGST Joined NetACT

The Ethiopian Graduate School of Theology, EGST joined Network for African Congregational Theology (NetAct) as member. This was announced in a workshop held in Machakos, Kenya, from 2 – 7 July at Scott Christian University.

Dr. Theodros Assefa, Head of EGST Academic Affairs and Director’s delegate, has participated in the workshop and heralded the news on his return to EGST on Monday July 10, 2017.  “I am delighted to let you know that we are now accepted by the network. Our membership request and our choice to join the Stellenbosch cluster are fully approved and endorsed by the network’s general assembly” he announced.

Dr. Theodros further explained that NetAct has several institutions led by four clusters viz. Stellenbosch & Africa International University; Pretoria & St. Paul’s University; Free State & International Leadership University; and North West University & DAYSTAR. “We have chosen the Stellenbosch University cluster because of our longstanding interest to establish partnership with this institution. Moreover, our NetACT membership under Stellenbosch cluster will give us ground to establish a close working relationship and meaningful partnership with Stellenbosch University” he stated.

It was learnt that NetAct is a network of theological institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa, created and directed by these institutions, to assist them in preparing leaders for missional congregations through networking and sharing of resources. The network is currently housed at the Faculty of Theology at Stellenbosch University (SU), which is one of more than 50 members and associate members.

Among the multiple benefits of joining the network, Dr. Theodros mentioned  faculty exchange; joint research and publication; multi-School Library Resource Project and access to each institution’s electronic library resources and other privileges such as faculty development, scholarships, and hosting visiting researchers and students doing advanced studies at Stellenbosch in the NetACT house.

It is expected that EGST and SU might enter into Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in the near future. “I think there are enough reasons to take this moment as the unfolding of exciting possibilities for collaboration with prominent universities,” Dr. Theodros anticipated.It was also recalled that EGST Director, Dr. Misgana Mathewos visited Stellenbosch University in September 2016 and deliberated on partnership issues.

EGST is currently member of ACTEA, AETIE, CCIH, and other well recognized national, regional and international networks.

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