A Moment for Mission
"Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved by him, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly explaining the word of truth." —2 Timothy 2:15, NRSV
Orphaned at age six, Claudine Migisha faced numerous challenges in her quest for education, including inadequate funding and the lack of parental encouragement.
Despite the difficulties she encountered, Migisha completed high school. She had no proficiency in English when she received a scholarship and enrolled at Africa University in 2015.
But in June 2019, the 26-year-old from near Goma, Congo, was among 526 students from 22 African countries who composed the 2019 graduating class of the United Methodist university, which opened in 1992. Migisha was awarded an honors degree in psychology during Africa University's 25th graduation ceremony.
"For the women in my village, education is seen as a hindrance," said Migisha. "An educated woman is considered too outspoken, ignorant of her true place in society, argumentative and, ultimately, a challenge to her man."
Migisha aims to change that perception. Through her work in the arts, she plans to engage with both women and men to grow the understanding that an educated woman is an asset.
"I came to this university shy and withdrawn, but I was pulled out of my shell and transformed into a warrior woman," said Migisha. "I believe that if more young women are given the chance, they can reach far, and I am determined to see that happening."
Thanks to United Methodist support of the Africa University Fund, promising young leaders like Migisha find their voice and their future.
Offertory Prayer
Loving God, we pray that Africa University will continue to nurture promising students. Help these young adults to serve God with courage and conviction. In your name, we pray. Amen.
From Discipleship Ministries:
Newsletter Nugget
Speaking at Africa University's 25th graduation ceremony, vice chancellor Munashe Furusa encouraged the young adults to "build an Africa that we all want and deserve to live in. In doing so, do not neglect your dreams, but keep your faith, affirm your dignity, be kind, caring and generous.
"Our alumni, whose ranks you are joining today, have gone on to take their place among the leaders, movers and shakers of this continent and the world and are reimagining our space in ways that we never thought possible," he added.
Furusa highlighted Lillian Achom, a Ugandan computer information systems specialist who graduated in 2011. She is revolutionizing the field of information technology in her country, he said, and realigning women's roles in the development of the IT sector in Africa. Through her start-up, Grade Score, Achom helps students to evaluate themselves academically and align their talents with their higher education and career choices.
United Methodists nurture education through support of the Africa University Fund. Thank you!
Adapted from an article by Jeanette Dadzie, Africa University Office of Advancement and Public Affairs, for UM News, June 14, 2019