NHNE Theology School celebrates historic QCTO accreditation

Article source: Supplied

New Heaven New Earth (NHNE) Theology School has achieved a groundbreaking milestone, receiving international accreditation from the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO). This recognition formally integrates NHNE Theology School into South Africa’s theological education framework, affirming its teachings as part of mainstream Christianity in the country.

The accreditation ceremony, held in Cape Town, was a momentous occasion, coinciding with the anniversary month of NHNE Church of Jesus’ establishment. The event gathered church leaders, accreditation specialists, and distinguished guests to reflect on the significance of this achievement for theological education and faith leadership in South Africa.

Thabo Mngomezulu, Deputy Director in the Quality Assurance Domain of the QCTO, congratulated the church for meeting all accreditation requirements. He highlighted growing concerns in South Africa, such as moral decline and the erosion of positive values, which have contributed to rising crime rates and societal instability. Given that Christianity constitutes approximately 80% of the population’s faith, he emphasised the vital role well-trained religious leaders can play in addressing these issues.

“Well-formed and trained religious leaders in the communities are needed and this would ensure that communities are protected against individuals who misuse their position as pastors,” he added.

Pastor Bennett van Wyk, CEO of ETD Consulting Career and Skills Development Services, emphasized the magnitude of this milestone, noting that NHNE Theology School is the first institution in the religious sector to apply for and receive QCTO accreditation.

“When an institution attains accreditation, it’s not only about providing quality education to learners but also about equipping them to make a meaningful impact in their communities. In a society where moral and ethical leadership is needed, qualified leaders trained through this program can contribute to real change, even within government structures,” said Pastor Bennett.

He further explained that QCTO accreditation is based on three critical components: knowledge, practical application, and workplace readiness. He expressed confidence that NHNE Theology School will excel in all three areas, particularly in practical training.

Stephanie Nelson, Director of Nelson Academic Accreditation, emphasized that QCTO accreditation is internationally comparable, meaning that institutions accredited in South Africa meet global education standards. She noted that NHNE Theology School graduates will be recognized not only locally but also worldwide.

She elaborated on the broader implications of accreditation saying, “This accreditation provides graduates with a certificate that holds weight and mobility. It instills a sense of pride, knowing their qualification is both accredited and recognized. More importantly, it inspires them, affirming that they have achieved something truly meaningful in the Christian space.”

The Director of NHNE Theology School, Justin Pienaar, described the accreditation as both a celebration and a reaffirmation of the institution’s mission, stating that NHNE Theology School is the first of its kind internationally to receive QCTO accreditation. He emphasized that this milestone ensures graduates are equipped to serve with wisdom, integrity, and faith in a world that urgently needs the light of Christ.

Reaffirming the institution’s guiding principles, he emphasized that NHNE Theology School’s curriculum is rooted in a belief that true faith is a living relationship with Jesus Christ, founded solely on His Word.

“This belief shapes our curriculum, our teaching, and our vision for the leaders we train—ensuring they are grounded in truth and empowered to lead with conviction.”

The Regional Director of NHNE Church of Jesus in Southern Africa, BeomJun Park, expressed gratitude to the QCTO for its support throughout the accreditation process, acknowledging that the recognition has formally integrated NHNE’s teachings into South Africa’s theological education landscape.

He reiterated the school’s broader mission saying, “The core purpose of NHNE Theology School is to train leaders who not only understand but also effectively teach the revealed word, guiding their congregations to embrace the truth.”

The accreditation of NHNE Theology School marks a transformative step forward for theological education in South Africa. By offering students an internationally recognized qualification, the institution equips them to lead with knowledge, faith, and integrity. This milestone cements NHNE Theology School’s place within the educational landscape and strengthens its commitment to raising leaders who will inspire change in their communities and beyond.

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Date published: 27/03/2025

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