Leadership is a cornerstone of societal progress and development. It is especially crucial in the context of the 11-day United Methodist’s quadrennial General Conference held in Charlotte, NC, where diverse voices and perspectives converge to shape the future of the church.
The involvement of Africa University (AU) graduates in leadership roles at the conference underscores the profound impact of effective leadership on fostering unity, addressing challenges, and driving positive change within a global community.
Your support of the Africa University Fund apportionment supports the general operating expenses of Africa University including faculty and staff salaries and vital infrastructure.
Alumni participation as delegates and interpreters is also a testament to the university's success in producing graduates who are ready to give back to the church and the world.
Delegate Shamiso Winnet Mupara, a 2007 graduate with a Bachelor of Social Science in Environmental Science and Sociology, said her AU education prepared her for this moment in time.
“Training at Africa University provided me with critical thinking skills, leadership abilities, and cultural sensitivity, all crucial for navigating the complexities of the General Conference,” said Mupara, an Executive Director at Environmental Buddies Zimbabwe Trust.
“The courses emphasized problem-solving and effective communication, while the multicultural environment honed my ability to engage with diverse perspectives,” she said.
The significance of AU's influence extends beyond the General Conference. AU currently hosts 2,032 full-time students, with 25% being international and 75% being Zimbabwean. The increasing female representation across all faculties highlights the university's commitment to gender equality and empowerment.
The university's diverse student body and inclusive environment provide a fertile ground for cultivating leaders who can navigate and appreciate cultural diversity, fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect and collaboration.
“As an ordained clergy member who currently serves as the District Superintendent in the Iowa Conference of the United Methodist Church, I learned how to embrace others regardless of our different opinions, nationalities, languages, and cultures,” said Rev. Dr. Michel O. Lundula, a 2005 graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture.
Serving as a delegate and interpreter at his fourth General Conference, Lundula said AU equips students to become future leaders in the United Methodist Church.
“I want to encourage current and future African University students to live their dream, experience the blessing of others through the building of cross-cultural relationships, and become solutions to the global challenges facing the twenty-first-century world,” said Lundula. “Today's world needs leaders who are ready to make the world smaller, loving, and peaceful through the understanding of effective cross-cultural and global leadership.”
Andra M. Stevens, Director, Communications and Creative Services, Africa University Development Office
One of seven apportioned giving opportunities of The United Methodist Church, the Africa University Fund transforms Africa by educating and empowering students from across the continent through Africa University, the first fully accredited, United Methodist-related educational institution on the continent. The Africa University Fund supports the general operating expenses of Africa University including faculty and staff salaries and vital infrastructure. Please encourage your leaders and congregations to support the Africa University Fund at 100 percent.
