The first intake of 2021 was less than hoped for (considering the new programmes), but is satisfactory in light of all the continuing COVID-restrictions. Additional new registrations are expected for the second semester since a number of students have opted to apply later this year.
With five study centres and some 80 distance learning support centres, Mukhanyo is now in a position to accommodate far more students for theological study. There is no question that knowledge of the Bible and the spreading of the gospel is a huge priority, both in South Africa and beyond.
It has been stated often that in Africa only one in a hundred preachers have sufficient Bible knowledge and are preaching faithfully according to what Jesus Christ commanded in Mathew 28:19-20: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (emphasis added because this essential part is often forgotten).
God has given Mukhanyo the tools to do just that – teaching! But many people are not aware of the opportunities Mukhanyo has on offer. Therefore, Mukhanyo has started a communication drive to make more people aware of all the programmes in each location.
Traditionally this has been done through word of mouth, pamphlets, this newsletter, etc. Last year an experimental start was made to increase communication via digital marketing, social media, open days, attractive publications, such as the annual prospective and study guides, also involving students to tell the story of Mukhanyo.
Dr Brian DeVries, Principal, is thankful that what the team has done so far is already starting to bear fruit. Even after the lockdown-year the number of students increased: “This year we will build on what we started last year. If conditions return to more or less normal, we can expect continued growth, enabling us to fulfil our calling to teach to more and more students all that Christ has commanded.”
