Trinity Theological College hosts national seminar

DIMAPUR — With an aim to explore and promote the integration of indigenous resources into theological education and training, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for diverse theological perspectives, Trinity Theological College TTC) in Thahekhu, Dimapur, successfully hosted a two-day national seminar on “Engaging indigenous resources in theological education and training” on February 1 and 2.

An update from the college stated resource persons of the seminar included Rev. Dr. Wati Longchar, executive director of Foundation for Theological Education in Asia and the Pacific (Atlanta); Dr. Eyingbeni Humtsoe Nienu, principal of Baptist Theological College, Pfutsuro; and Rev. Dr. Christ Sumit Abhay Kerketta, principal of Gossner Theological College, Ranchi.

It stated that Rev. Dr. Longchar delved into “The need for a theological shift from similarities to differences in tribal studies,” challenging traditional approaches and advocating for a more nuanced understanding of tribal theological perspectives.

It added that Dr. Humtsoe Nienu spoke on “The place of Morung education in higher theological training in view of NEP 2020 (HE),” wherein she emphasised the significance of incorporating indigenous educational practices into theological pedagogy and Rev. Dr. Kerketta spoke on “Doing theology with Adivasi resources,” by highlighting the importance of engaging with Adivasi cultural and spiritual resources in theological discourse.

It stated that faculty members from Trinity Theological College collaborated with the speakers by contributing their expertise and insights to the discussions.

It added that master and doctoral students from various theological institutions including Eastern Theological College in Jorhat, Clerk Theological College in Aolijen and Oriental Theological Seminary were invited to the seminar. It stated that M.Th students from Trinity Theological College also actively engaged in the seminar furthering their understanding of indigenous theological resources.

Meanwhile, Rev. Dr. Hukato N Shohe, principal of Trinity Theological College, expressed gratitude to all the speakers and participants for their invaluable contributions to the seminar.

TTC launches indigenous studies and research centre

Trinity Theological College has launched the ‘ABOGHÜ Indigenous Studies and Research Centre’ on February 1, which was dedicated by Rev. Dr. Khehovi Shohe, director of Sumi Baptist Convention (SBC).

It stated that ‘ABOGHÜ Indigenous Studies and Research Centre’ is a pioneering initiative aimed at fostering critical discourse and deepening understanding of indigenous perspectives within theological academia and broader society. Through a diverse array of courses and research endeavours, the centre seeks to engage with issues such as colonisation and the decolonising process, social analysis from the margins, intersection of the Bible and social transformation and community-based approaches to biblical interpretation.

“We are thrilled to unveil the Indigenous Studies and Research Centre, a space dedicated to amplifying indigenous voices and promoting holistic dialogue on pressing societal issues,” remarked Rev. Dr. Khehovi Shohe adding, “In an era marked by profound global challenges, it is imperative that we embrace diverse perspectives and engage in meaningful reflection to enact positive change.”

It informed that the centre’s curriculum encompasses a range of inter-disciplinary courses designed to facilitate rigorous scholarship and practical engagement with indigenous knowledge systems.

In addition to its academic programmes, it stated that the centre will actively collaborate with local communities and organisations to develop practical tools and resources for social advocacy and community empowerment. Through partnerships with grassroots initiatives and advocacy groups, the centre will strive to effect meaningful change and address systemic inequities, it added.