GENERAL INFORMATION

The long history of training church leaders began in the Zambezi Valley in 1953 as part of the missionary efforts of The Evangelical Alliance Mission (TEAM) at Mavhuradonha. Later the training of leaders moved to Kapfundi where the programme developed by adding a three-year English course for post-Standard VI applicants. The Light of Life Correspondence School became an extension of the college and continued until 1986 . The college became co-educational in 1965 and in 1969 a three-year theological course was added. The college was relocated to Chinhoyi in 1969 where it became a significant training institution known as the Evangelical Bible College (EBC). The Evening Extension School was added in 1970 that eventually grew into a full Theological Education by Extension department (TEE.) The TEE department was separated from the residential programmes in 1991 and became an independent entity distinct from the college. The Certificate in Theology, a three-year secondary level programme, was initiated in 1987 along with a post-secondary level three-year Diploma in Theology Programme. Because of the college’s desire to be as available as possible to the growing Christian community in Zimbabwe, the Evangelical Bible College relocated into Hatfield, Harare, in April, 1991, and took the name Harare Theological College (HTC). In October of 2004, HTC moved to a new campus at 10 Aberdeen Rd., Avondale, which is not too far from the city centre and thereby more accessible to those wishing to use HTC’s resources. Harare Theological College is independent, interracial, and interdenominational in students, faculty, staff, and Board of Governors.

To glorify God in partnership with His church by equipping servant-leaders at the diploma and degree levels to know the truth, practice godliness, and be effective in ministry.

In order for us as a theological college to achieve our purpose, the following objectives have been developed, and the training of the College is directed towards implementing these objectives in the lives of the students.

1. To develop a growing, maturing relationship with God in prayer, study of the Scriptures, meditation and worship.
2. To develop and use one's spiritual life and Christlike character consistent with the standards of Scripture.
3. To develop and use one's spiritual gifts for effective service to Christ, the Church and the world.
4. To apply the truths of Scripture consistently to one's life and ministry.
5. To develop interpersonal, communicative, and leadership skills essential for an effective ministry.
6. To develop a burden for the spiritual needs of the world.
7. To develop a spiritual enthusiasm and zeal for communicating the Word of God to others.

1. To gain a knowledge of the overview and contents of the Bible.
2. To gain ability in the skills of personal Bible study.
3. To gain a knowledge of and skill in using hermeneutical (interpretive) principles.
4. To gain a knowledge of biblically based systematic theology and biblical theology, and to develop skill in thinking theologically.
5. To gain insights into contemporary theological issues and to evaluate them scripturally.
6. To gain ability in defining, justifying, and defending the theological truths of the Bible.
7. To gain an awareness of contemporary moral, social, and ethical issues and cultural problems, and know how the Scriptures relate to those domestic and international issues.
8. To gain a knowledge of the historical development of theology and of the historical heritage of the Church.
9. To gain a knowledge of the biblical basis and effective principles of pastoral, educational, and outreach ministries.

1. Service as pastors, evangelists, Christian workers or lay leaders in local churches in Zimbabwe and other African nations and the world.
2. Para-church ministries to support and strengthen local churches.
3. Bible teaching in local schools and in government related ministries, e.g.. chaplains in the army.
4. Helping Christians in society to be more effective in their task of being salt and light in the world.

College Calendar

The College has a three term calendar:

January - April
May - August
September - December

Standards of Conduct

Students who meet the entrance requirements and enter the College are expected to abide by the code of conduct outlined in the student handbook. This handbook is distributed and explained to students each year during orientation. Any departure from these standards or from Christian standards in general is discussed with students personally with the expectation that necessary correction will be made. Serious infractions and/or patterns of conduct unbecoming one going into a position of leadership in the Church will lead to suspension or dismissal.

Accommodation

The College is not able to provide accommodation for any student. Each student arranges for his or her own accommodation and commutes to the college as required.

Co-education

Both men and women are welcome to receive their training at HTC. Engaged applicants should consult the Registrar on regulations. Students considering courtship and marriage must consult the Dean of Students.

Church Relationships

The Harare Theological College is governed by an independent Board of Governors which is interested in developing leadership for the whole Christian Community. Members of any denomination are welcome to enroll as students so long as they are willing to come and interact in harmony with an interdenominational community. All students must be sent to Harare Theological College by a local church, and HTC will only accept students who have the full backing of their local church. This will be demonstrated by way of letters of recommendation, some financial support, and a willingness expressed in writing to provide opportunities for service during their training.

In this regard, it is important for all prospective students to note that we do not provide positions for graduated students and cannot guarantee one a job upon graduation with any particular denomination. It must be said, however, that we will give as much assistance as possible in placement and we are regularly approached by churches and Christian organisations for prospective workers.

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