Strengthening theological education across borders

Partnership and cooperation are central to the way UEM strengthens its holistic mission and promotes social transformation. Over the years, UEM has built sustainable educational partnerships and established itself, through its scholarship programme, as an active contributor to academic development.

To broaden perspectives and further deepen this cooperation, UEM welcomed Prof. Reginald Nel, Dean of Theology and Pro Vice-Chancellor for Internationalization, and Escois Benjamin, Manager of the Faculty of Theology at Stellenbosch University. The faculty in South Africa is one of UEM’s key partners and has supported the International Master of Arts in Diaconic Management since its inception.

Together with Rev. Dr. Norita Sembiring, Head of Department Global Education, and the guests from Stellenbosch, new opportunities for collaboration were explored. The discussions focused on how digitalization and artificial intelligence can help make internationally quality-assured and certified theological studies accessible remotely. Such an offer could open up new pathways for UEM members in the continuing education of their staff, particularly in an environment increasingly shaped by competition and change. At the same time, it would help form leaders who are intellectually, morally and theologically equipped to strengthen the church’s role as a transformative force in society.

Prof. Nel captured the significance of the encounter in these words: “Our visit to UEM in Wuppertal reminded us that the most enduring partnerships are not built merely on agreements, but on shared convictions about the future of theological education and the church’s public witness. They are rooted in a deep discernment of our triune God’s mission.

For many years, UEM has been more than a valued partner of Stellenbosch University in South Africa. Together, we have invested in people, nurtured leadership across continents and demonstrated that theological formation can make a meaningful contribution to justice, reconciliation and the flourishing of communities. We are deeply grateful for UEM’s trust, friendship and long-standing commitment to this shared calling.

As higher education and the global church navigate profound change, we look forward to deepening our collaboration. Whether through leadership formation, research, digital innovation or new forms of international learning, we remain convinced that the future belongs to partnerships rooted in mutual learning, shared responsibility and hope. Together, they can shape a new generation of leaders who serve both church and society with intercultural wisdom, moral courage and compassion.”

The encounter made clear that those who want to go fast may go alone, but those who want to go far go together. In this spirit, UEM continues its mission to contribute to the transformation of the world through empowered leaders. Each step taken together builds trust, overcomes fear and paves the way for lasting success.