Re-thinking the role of theology in higher education: striving for deeper transformation

Abstract

Since the first democratic elections of1994 every area of life in South Africa has been undergoing transformation. Higher education has not been exempt from this process. Within this context there have been attempts to minimise and sometimes, eliminate theology departments and faculties from institutions of higher learning because theology is often perceived as irrelevant. But if theology is taught in a contextual and engaging manner higher theological education can help learners reflect critically on contemporary life and the contribution they can make to society. Three modules from Unisa's Department of Missiology are examples of learning designs that are contextual and have the potential to evoke a deeper transformation in learners.



(South African Journal of Higher Education: 2003 17 (3): 74-81)