08 September 2022
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Story Edzani Nephalela
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Photo Lethabo Machabaphala
Prof Francis Petersen, Rector and Vice-Chancellor of the UFS (left), presents the signed MOU to Rev Jan Lubbe, Chairperson of the DRC FS Curatorium.
The University of the Free State (UFS)
Faculty of Theology and Religion and the Dutch Reformed Church Free State (DRC FS) recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with a five-year term, effective from 1 January 2023. The MOU, signed on Tuesday 23 August 2022, will see increased collaboration between the UFS and DRC. Under the agreement, the UFS will offer theological training to DRC FS ministers to ensure their education includes current industry trends, while the DRC FS will in turn invest in formal, accredited academic education and training.
Prof Francis Petersen, Rector and Vice-Chancellor of the UFS, said partnerships should start putting theory into practice and ensure positive, impactful, and sustainable change in societies. “The value of an institution can only be seen if it is making a difference in society. If you can’t see the value of our actions, we need to ask questions about our existence. We need to make contributions worldwide, and that includes research. These contributions can only be enabled through partnerships. COVID-19 identified focal points and created solidarity and nationalism in protecting and educating each other,” he said.
Prof Petersen added that this long-standing journey of faith and dedication to teaching and learning is quantified to deepen and improve theological education in the Free State and Lesotho regions and inspire young people to study and practice theology.
Rev Jan Lubbe, Chairperson of the DRC FS Curatorium, said, “Missionary work led us to this day. The signing symbolises trust and confidence to build on in years to come. Although there is a financial commitment from the DRC, the relationship is built on academic competence.” Rev Lubbe added that the partnership is also a platform for development and a communication podium for relationship-building.
Prof Rantoa Letšosa, Dean of the UFS Faculty of Theology and Religion, highlighted the faculty's desire for churches to be partners, professional entities, and beneficiaries of their aspirations. “This ceremony serves as a reminder that we still wish to work together, bear this cross, and share the obligation to nurture, care for, and nourish our future generations,” he said.
Prof Rantoa Letšosa, Dean of the UFS Faculty of Theology and Religion; Prof Francis Petersen, Rector and Vice-Chancellor of the UFS; Rev Jan Lubbe,
Chairperson of the DRC FS Curatorium, and Rev Cobus Hamman, Deputy Chairperson of the DRC FS Curatorium sign the MOU at the UFS Bloemfontein
Campus. Photo: Lethabo Machabaphala.