Dr Julias Togarepi
Dean
Dr. Julias Togarepi (PhD, PGDE, MTh, BTh) is the pioneering dean of the Faculty of TERP at the Catholic University of Zimbabwe, where he has overseen its growth from one program in 2019 to nine by 2024. An experienced theologian and academic leader, Dr. Togarepi brings a transdisciplinary approach to Practical Christianity, integrating spirituality, ecology, psychology, and sociology to promote harmony between humanity and nature. His research focuses on Sacred Liturgy, Theology of Ecology, Chaplaincy, and Peace Building, with publications and presentations on Jewish-Christian relations, chaplaincy, and ritual space. He also serves as a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow with the Catholic University of Eastern Africa.
Faculty of Theology, Ethics, Religious Studies, and Philosophy (TERP)
The Faculty of Theology was founded in 2019 and rebranded as the Faculty of Theology, Ethics, Religious Studies, and Philosophy (TERP) in 2020. Today, TERP offers two postgraduate and six undergraduate programs, positioning itself as a leading Catholic institution in theology, religious studies, and ethical training.
Vision
As a Catholic institution, TERP is dedicated to advancing research, education, and social transformation through theology, spirituality, social communication, youth ministry, and catechetics. The faculty is guided by the principles of the Catholic Church, promoting a deep commitment to theological insight and social relevance.
Mission and Focus Areas
- Proclaiming the Word: TERP strives to share the teachings of the Gospel in a way that resonates with contemporary society, particularly through modern media and communications.
- Educational Mission: TERP trains students to serve as educators and spiritual leaders, cultivating a faith-based consciousness that supports the Church’s mission of evangelization.
- Contextual Theology: TERP fosters a relevant and transformative understanding of theology and religion that speaks to the unique cultural, spiritual, and social dynamics within Zimbabwe, the IMBISA region, Africa, and beyond.
Distinctive Approach
- Liberative and Transformative Role: TERP prioritizes personal and communal development, equipping students with critical thinking skills and a commitment to self-fulfillment in Christ.
- Inculturation and Applicability: With a student- and community-centered approach, TERP emphasizes inculturation—adapting theological education to reflect the spiritual, cultural, and social realities of Zimbabwe and the broader African context.
- Evangelical and Pastoral Focus: TERP’s curriculum not only teaches the Gospel but also examines its relevance to real-world issues, promoting a dynamic, lived faith in Christ.
- Employment and Skill Development: In alignment with the national vision, TERP prepares graduates for meaningful contributions to economic and social development, equipped with both practical skills and ethical grounding.
Inclusivity and Collegiality
TERP fosters an inclusive academic environment open to ecumenical and interdisciplinary dialogue. By engaging with various academic perspectives, TERP contributes to holistic understanding and community well-being, encouraging collaboration across disciplines to support human development and spiritual growth.
TERP is a faculty where faith and scholarship meet, preparing graduates to serve their communities and contribute to a more compassionate and understanding world.
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMMES
A minimum of 5 ‘O’ Level passes including English Language, plus at least 2 ‘A’ level passes.
OR
Mature entry for applicants above 25 years of age with 5 ‘O’ level passes including English Language, a diploma or certificate and relevant work experience.
This is specifically for priests who are holders of the Diploma in Theology from Chishawasha Seminary.
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POSTGRADUATE PROGRAMMES
The Masters in Theology has the following areas of specialization:
- Biblical Theology
- Systematic Theology
- Moral Theology
- Church History
- Pastoral/Practical Theology
Successful applicants should:
Be a holder of an upper second or better pass at bachelor’s degree honours level in Theology, Religious Studies, Philosophy, or a relevant social science degree or their equivalent from an accredited institution of education
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A minimum of a relevant first degree with at least a 2.2 degree class or better from an accredited institution of education.
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DIPLOMA PROGRAMMES
Dr. Bednicho Nyoni
Chairperson
Dr. Bednicho Nyoni is the Chairperson of the Faculty of Theology, Ethics, Religious Studies and Philosophy (FTERP) at the Catholic University of Zimbabwe. He is a seasoned academic, curriculum development specialist, and higher education consultant with more than two decades of experience in university teaching, curriculum design, instructional development, academic leadership, policy formulation, institutional governance, programme evaluation, and capacity strengthening. Dr. Nyoni holds a PhD in Systematic Theology, Religious Studies and Intercultural Theology (Religion and Development) from the University of Rostock, Germany. His professional expertise encompasses competency-based curriculum development, programme review, quality assurance, adult learning methodologies, curriculum mapping, learning outcomes design, assessment systems, organisational development, and participatory stakeholder engagement. Since joining the Catholic University of Zimbabwe in 2020, Dr. Nyoni has played an important role in advancing curriculum innovation, strengthening academic governance, and promoting institutional quality assurance. In addition to serving as Faculty Chairperson, he is the Chairperson of the Faculty Curriculum Development Committee, a member of University Senate Committees, and the Secretary of the University Bridging Programme Committee. Beyond the University, Dr. Nyoni contributes to the advancement of academic standards in Zimbabwe through his role as an External Examiner for Zimbabwe Ezekiel Guti University (ZEGU), where he is involved in examination moderation, assessment review, and curriculum quality enhancement. His extensive consultancy portfolio includes engagements with leading international, regional, and development organisations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), UNESCO, UNAIDS, World Vision, Caritas Zimbabwe, INERELA+, the World Council of Churches, Family AIDS Caring Trust (FACT), Christian Aid, FOCCISA, and Youth Engage Zimbabwe, among other partners. Through these engagements, Dr. Nyoni has contributed to initiatives in curriculum development, policy formulation, strategic planning, monitoring and evaluation systems, training, and institutional capacity development. His career reflects a strong commitment to strengthening higher education systems, developing relevant and responsive curricula, and supporting institutions and communities to achieve sustainable development outcomes. As Chairperson of FTERP, Dr. Nyoni brings together extensive academic experience, institutional leadership, and expertise in curriculum and quality development to support the Faculty's mission of excellence in theology, ethics, religious studies, philosophy, and values-based education.