College of Human Sciences
Outstanding scholar situates Unisa prominently within the global theological landscape
Prof Magezi Elijah Baloyi
In a fitting acknowledgment of his many academic achievements and dedication to theological research, Prof Magezi Elijah Baloyi, of the Research Institute of Theology and Religion at Unisa, has been honoured with a research professorship, effective from 1 March 2023. Baloyi's expertise spans a wide spectrum of disciplines, encompassing pastoral care and counselling, gender studies within the African context, African religions and indigenous knowledge systems.
The Centre of Theological Inquiry
Coinciding with this milestone has been another significant accolade in the form of an invitation to participate in the Thriving in Diverse Contexts programme located within the Centre of Theological Inquiry (CTI) at Princeton University in the United States of America. This programme, a collaborative venture between scholars from several continents, began in December 2022 and concludes in June 2024, with the aim of generating theological publications characterised by an interdisciplinary fusion of theology, psychology and philosophy.
The magnitude of this achievement necessitated a redirection of responsibilities, and Unisa's Management Committee (MANCOM) in consequence granted Baloyi a sabbatical from teaching and administrative duties, thus enabling him to focus all his energies on this ground-breaking project. As one of ten carefully selected scholars from all over the world, he will collaborate with internationally renowned peers to publish in established international journals. This endeavour seeks to foster a collaborative dialogue between established scholars and those selected, in that way contributing to the global academic discourse.
Princeton University
Baloyi is looking forward to being part of this important project and adding to his corpus of research publications. Participation in the programme requires an extended stay at Princeton University, with the forthcoming 2024 academic semesters being earmarked for intensive reading, research collaboration within the group and interactions with appointed mentors. This international programme not only highlights the individual accomplishments of participants, but also situates Unisa prominently within the global theological landscape.
Of the ten scholars selected to participate in the programme, only two hail from the African continent, with Baloyi being the sole black academic representative. This constitutes a fitting tribute to the value of his contributions to theological scholarship.
Congratulations
Prof Baloyi has received heartfelt congratulations from the College of Human Sciences’ management, and his achievement has been publicised on Unisa's internal media platforms.
In the realm of theological scholarship, Baloyi’s achievements stand as a testament to both his exceptional dedication and the global recognition of Unisa's academic standard. This honour not only serves to showcase his stature as an academic, but also draws attention to Unisa's respected position in theological research, transcending geographic and disciplinary boundaries. As the academic journey continues, this collaboration holds the promise of enriching the global academic community and reshaping the landscape of theological discourse.
* By IHlubi Veli Mabona, Marketing Assistant, College of Human Sciences
Publish date: 2023/09/15
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