Master of Theology in Ecumenical Leadership Students Reflect on their Academic Journey
As the academic year of leadership formation comes to an end for the first cohort of AACC’s Master of Theology in Ecumenical Leadership (MTEL), students shared reflections on their academic training, leadership formation and ecumenical journey at Mindolo Ecumenical Foundation (MEF) – Kitwe Zambia with the AACC communications team. The MTEL Programme purposes to equip students with deeper knowledge and skills in leadership to serve regional and global ecumenical movements and churches. The first cohort confidently expresses how this transformative goal has changed their leadership perspectives and ignited ecumenical passion and enthusiasm for transformative leadership on the continent and beyond.
“This programme has sharpened my leadership skills, teaching me how to navigate challenges, work across Christian traditions, and contribute to a more unified Christian witness in Africa.” Shared Rev. Oladapo Valentine Akintaju - A priest in the church of Nigeria Anglican Communion.
Rev. Agnes Munayani Zulu from the Reformed Church of Zambia, is the only female student in this cohort. She has all along kept the passion and leadership zeal in her training, aspiring and prophesying that one day she will lead an ecumenical organization.
“I would advise women and young theologians who have passion for leadership to take up the chance of studying when the opportunity comes. Education is the best equalizer; an educated and empowered woman brings change in the society.” She notes.
Rev. O. Jubilate Deo H. AVALLA from the Methodist Church in Benin affirmed that Life at MEF is an ecumenical experience of its kind, bringing together students from different parts of Africa and denominations within the AACC jurisdiction.
“The programme offers enriching ecumenical encounters and transformation, putting leadership into practice away from home and calling for a collegial consultative approach to solving life challenges.” He noted
As their academic year ends in May 2025, awaiting St. Paul University to confer the prestigious MTEL Degree, the cohort anticipates life after MEF with optimism and they are prepared to face the world with courage and competencies to lead.
“With certainty that Africa is our home and our future, we feel charged to apply the leadership knowledge, skills and experience gained to build a better Africa.” Expressed Mr. Geoffrey Mugadizi from the Orthodox Church in Kenya.
Admission for the MTEL degree for the academic year 2025/2026 are currently ongoing and qualified young theologians are invited to apply by 28th February 2025 for the May intake. The application form is available here and at the St Paul’s University website.
Click here for more details about the MTEL degree programme
Click here to download the MTEL degree Programme Application form
Click here to download the MTEL scholarship Application guidelines
Click here to download the MTEL Scholarship Application form
In the Photo: The first cohort of students pursuing the MTEL degree at MEF [Courtsey - Rev. Dr. Njoroge John]
