Distance education really works!

Ms Tunize Bezuidenhout, Mukhanyo’s Distance Learning Centre Coordinator, recently visited a number of distance learning support centres, including groups in Ladysmith, Empangeni, Welkom, Hoopstad and Moloto.

The purpose of these visits was to build relationships, encourage the students, evaluate the operation of the groups, provide training where needed and offer ongoing support.

Here are some impressions gained from the visits.

• Tutors invest much effort with the students and go the extra mile to help them.
• Administration takes much of the tutors’ time, especially marking assignments and exams.
• Many of the students are financially supported out of the tutor’s own pocket or subsidised by their local churches.
• Mukhanyo succeeds in its goal to train African church leaders and is making a difference.
• The thinking and knowledge of students are broadened by the studies. They express that a whole new world opens up to them.
• Students now recognise the authority of the Bible and can test the authority of preachers who give false teaching.
• Students say they are taught in their churches that they should read only the New Testament. They have now learned the importance of the whole Bible and how the Old Testament opens up the New Testament. 
• Students are making a difference on ground level in their communities.
• Students preach what they learn in class. They are enthusiastic about the truth and are eager to learn more. 
• Students struggle with conflict in their churches because they are now preaching and doing things differently.

Tutors at these centres are not paid by Mukhanyo. We recognise and appreciates the hard work – often voluntary – that they are doing to extend the Kingdom of God. May our Father keep and strengthen them so that are able to continue their very important work.
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Mukhanyo is also working to further improve and expand its network of distance learning support centres. An experienced manager is needed to guide this vital area of theological education and to coordinate quality support for the growing number of Mukhanyo facilitators and distance students. Click HERE for more information about this open position.