Congo partner school named “the best of 2008”

The Certificate of Merit reads: "Shalom University of Bunia has distinguished itself in its activities during the year of 2008 in Ituri. Therefore, the university is proclaimed the best of 2008."

OC’s partner school in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Shalom University of Bunia (SUB), has been recognized by the Congo Press Union with the 2008 Certificate of Merit, an award given to the “best institution of the year.”

SUB is playing a major role in their war-torn country’s peace and reconciliation process. War, ethnic strife and disease have riddled the Congo with an estimated 5.4 million deaths in the last 10 years, weakening or closing many churches. The university initiated the Center for the Renewal of the Church in response to these issues, which allows pastors to find biblical solutions using local resources. Students are also getting involved in reactivating closed churches. To read more about SUB, click here.

The Certificate of Merit is a very prestigious honor in their context and “reflects the meaningful ways in which the university contributes to the Church and broader society,” says OC Vice President of International Partnerships Jason Ferenczi. “This is related to their work in the broader community [this year] during the conflicts that have taken place in the Ituri province of Congo.”

OC rejoices to see SUB recognized by broader society as an agent of peace and positive change. Thank you to all of our partner donors who make partnerships with such schools possible.