HIV/AIDS and poverty addressed in Zambian seminary courses

Founded in 1981, Justo Mwale Theological College (JMTC) in Lusaka, Zambia, is one, if not the only, college in Central Africa serving both Reformed and Presbyterian churches on a post-secondary level. With nearly 800 graduates, the college is interdenominational, and the student body represents various age groups, countries and tribes. Programs offered include Certificates in Christian Mission, Christian Stewardship/Sustainability and Women’s Ministry; Diploma in Theology and Bachelor’s degree in Theology. JMTC plans to introduce a Master’s program in the near future.

Food shortages, HIV/AIDS, poverty and unemployment make ministry different in Zambia. Much of the population relies on agriculture and copper production for survival. The number of street children and orphans has increased due to the deaths of their parents from HIV/AIDS.

The evangelical church encourages congregations to be involved in home-based care for those infected with the disease and to establish hospice care for the terminally ill. JMTC offers HIV/AIDS courses to assist church leaders and the laity with home-based care. Development Studies courses are also offered to equip students with knowledge and skills to help people find solutions to alleviate poverty. JMTC is currently continuing with short term courses tailored to counter these growing contextual problems. The college also hosts international conferences where several local and international institutions participate and share ideas, such as the impact of HIV/AIDS and poverty on theology.

Bachelor of Theology student Phiri Aaron is involved in practical ministry through preaching; counseling; teaching men, women and youths; and house visitations for fellowship and encouragement. “God continues to teach me from my perspective as an African student of theology,” he says. “All this equipping is meant to better my future ministry.” He is thankful that he is “spared” from wrong heretic teachings and is learning to properly interpret Scripture. “Jesus Christ shall always be at the center of all teaching and preaching.”