Abstract:
In 2017, the Faculty of Theology celebrates its centenary at the University of Pretoria. Celebrating
a centennial is as much as looking back as looking forward. In a changing world with changing
paradigms how does one remain relevant? Different challenges and expectations presented to
tertiary institutions of education in a new dispensation puts all concerned with higher education
in South Africa under pressure. The question addressed in this article is how will a Faculty of
Theology (in this case at the University of Pretoria) remain relevant to such an extent that it is
continued to be viewed as desirable to have such a faculty present at a university, participating
in the academic process and simultaneously continues to contribute to the well-being of the
South African society. The author suggests the following guidelines for consideration. In order
to remain relevant for the next couple of hundred years the Faculty of Theology should engage
contextually with society, practise interdisciplinary Theology, engage in interreligious dialogue
while still remaining connected to faith communities. A paradigm of post-foundationalism
enables Theology to exercise Theology in a relevant and meaningful manner.
Description:
This research is part of the
project, ‘Religion, Theology
and Education’, directed by
Prof. Dr Jaco Beyers,
Programme Manager: Biblical
and Religious Studies and
member of the Department
of Science of Religion and
Missiology, Faculty of
Theology, University of
Pretoria.
