The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Faculty of Theology recently held its annual dedication service in Mahikeng. It was led by Prof Daryl Balia, the new executive dean, who also recognised the faculty’s top performers for 2017 during the event.

Prof Balia welcomed and handed Bibles – donated by Mr Chris Johnson, the CEO of CUM Books – to students, including those who joined the faculty for the first time this year.

In his message, he said the faculty is on a mission to increase the number of registered students. “We want to reach out to churches and grow our footprint not only in the Mahikeng area, but also in other towns, cities and across our borders.”

Sazi Kunene, the new director for business development in the Unit for Continuing Education, encouraged pastors to approach the NWU with their community needs. Sazi, who like Prof Balia hails from KwaZulu-Natal, also said there is a feeling that “the role of the church should go beyond the spiritual”.

According to Sazi a number of short learning programmes are on the cards for those wishing to change careers or be promoted at work.

Amanda du Plessis, a senior lecturer in theology, says plans are afoot to host another pastors’ conference following the recent one focusing on marriage and sponsored by Prof Dan Kgwadi, the vice-chancellor.

The NWU’s Faculty of Theology recently held its annual dedication service. Attending the event from left to right are Sazi Kunene, director for business development in the Unit for Continuing Education, Obakeng Thebe, top Theology master’s student (cum laude), Prof Daryl Balia, executive dean of the Faculty of Theology, Simon Oostruis, best second-year student, and Lawrence Sedia, best first-year student.