Mt Kenya Central ACK Diocese Bishop Dr Timothy Gichere launching a Divinity School at Pioneer International University Murang’a Campus
The Mountain Journal
editor@themountainjournal.co.ke
Pioneer International University (PIU) has launched a School of Divinity that majors on post graduate diploma in transformational church administration and leadership.
The faculty will provide the students with ways to tackle/handle the emerging concerns within the society and provide guidance and leadership.
The varsity Vice Chancellor Prof Gedion Maina said the faculty is of its kind in the region as it will assist the students safe time instead of travelling long distances to St Paul in Limuru.
“I stand before you today to mark a significant milestone in the journey of Pioneer International University (PIU). The inauguration of our School of Divinity is not just the addition of another academic unit; it is a testament to our unwavering commitment to holistic education—one that nurtures the mind, the heart, and the spirit,” said Maina.
Photo/Mt Kenya ACK Diocese Bishop Dr Timothy Gichere (left) and Pioneer International University Chancellor Dr Peter Munga (right) during the launch of the School of Divinity at the Murang’a Campus of the University.
The VC added that Divinity schools serve as custodians of moral and ethical discourse, offering insights that transcend empirical data and delve into the human condition’s deeper questions.
Maina added that the programme will help the clergy attend lectures, saving them from traveling long distances, in search of skills to sharpen their knowledge.
“ The 10 modules have been prepared by the university in partnership with Father David Mbugua a lecturer at the Catholic University and his team, which will assist in steering the programme,” said Maina.
The VC added that the Divinity schools serve as custodians of moral and ethical discourse, offering insights that transcend empirical data and delve into the human condition’s deeper questions.
Launching the School of Divinity, Mt Kenya Central ACK Diocese Bishop Dr Timothy Gichere said the post graduate diploma will assist greatly in ushering the clergy in a new level.
Gichere, the chief guest, said the programme will also assist the leaders to forge a common direction on providing guidance and counseling to combat addiction to drugs, domestic disputes, and guidance and counseling to the students.
“ This is a milestone for the country as the church leaders will have the capacity and strength to handle the issues facing the community and provide solutions,” said Gichere.
The Varsity Chancellor Dr Peter Munga said transformative leadership was required in all sectors, to assist the country grow.
The School of Divinity, he said, is one of its kind as it will impact knowledge of clergy and people serving in the church, excel in administration and leadership..
Munga, an investor, challenged the church to invite the local investors who have developed from their local village to assist in sharing knowledge on various spheres.
“For example in Murang’a, Simon Wachira 40 years ago, operated a small shop, presently runs a chain of supermarkets and Norkas Hotels,” said Munga.
Kangema MP Peter Kihungi and alumni of the university said the school of divinity will help in mentoring leaders across various levels.
“ The community appreciates the university for designing a programme that fits leaders in all sectors focusing on improvement,” said Kihungi.
Also present were local MCAs who included Charles Machigo( Murang’a Town), Chefman Isaac Njoroge ( Kahumbu) and Hillary Muigai( Ichagaki).
The Divinity School will promote Interdisciplinary Dialogue: Theology intersects with disciplines like sociology, psychology, environmental studies, and more, enriching academic conversations and broadening perspectives.
It will also encourage Social Responsibility through community engagement and service, divinity schools instill a sense of duty towards societal well-being, emphasizing the importance of serving others.
Community Engagement: Collaborating with local churches, NGOs, and community leaders to address societal issues through faith-based initiatives.
Research and Innovation: Encouraging scholarly research that addresses contemporary theological questions and contributes to global discourse.
