A team of representatives for Local Leaders International, including Dr. David Turnbull, director of Local Online: A Global Strategy, and Dr. Nancy Njagi, African Director, discussed the area of hybrid theological education strategy that EGST is implementing. Local Leaders International focuses on exploring partnerships with theological institutions. Rev, Dr. Misgana Matheows introduced EGST’s team to the visitors and EGST in general. Mr. Than, Coordinator for Hybrid Edcuation, explained the history and current status of EGST’s hybrid education program. The goal of the hybrid education is primarily to address the theological needs of the local church leaders in their local context. This allows them to learn while serving the Church and supporting families.
Mr. Than said that the EGST strategy of hybrid theological education is to start small, establishing a strong foundation, and eventually expanding, all while ensuring quality of education. EGST partners with NET Foundation based in the Netherlands for access to an online platform and for capcity building and training. The Hybrid Eduation program will begin with PGD and others will continue step by step. However, there is still a challenge in the area of accessing the online library, e-books, faculty training and registration issues.
Dr Nancy said that Local Leaders International primarily works on building partnerships and fellowships with theological institutions. However, they also look for contextual needs to support the partner. They also aim to address the area of faculty development, theology-based research, online education on Muslim and Christian relation. Dr David also added the area of international strategy for local leaders is mainly capacity building in equipment and technology, expanding faculty competence, and ensuring quality content.