Mennonite Theological College of Eastern Africa

Mennonite Theological College
office/classrooms (left), chapel (right)

Mennonite Theological College as it is now began in the early 1960's when the original Mennonite Bible school was upgraded to theological college and new buildings were built. The same buildings are still in use, but the program has gone through several changes, including a 10 year period during the 1980's when the school was closed. The college reopened in the early 1990's with a new academic program and leadership. The buildings are basic, but serve the college well. The present enrollment is 25, with space for about 50.

Last week, April 5-6, the board of Mennonite Theological College in Eastern Africa met to address issues facing the college. The college is deep in debt, nearly half is unpaid salaries, and the administrative style  and actions generally have been unsatisfactory. So the board took action to remove both the principal and vice principal from office and to engage a search process for a new principal. I was asked to lead an interim coordinating team that includes 2 other persons.

Another view of the office/classroom building

The board also approved a proposal for an external review of the college with proposals for new priorities and programs for the future that better meet the needs of the churches.

I feel in some ways energized by the possibilities this brings, but it is a major change for us over the next 3-4 months until a new principal is appointed. It will mean that we will at least cut back on our training seminars in the churches, if not lay it down altogether for this period of time. Immediate challenges include improving financial stability and rebuilding relationships with the churches. Fortunately, we are living near the college, so this does not require us to move to a different area. But our heart is still in the diocese-based training program and we look forward to getting back to doing that.

Former dormitory, now library.
Lake Victoria's Mara Bay in the background.

An interim is an opportunity to clarify vision, to reestablish connections, and to change the program to better fit present needs. Our goal for the next several months is to begin working toward that.

Pray for the search for a new principal, and pray also for us as we deal with challenges at the college.