Education has been established as a basic human right in many parts of the world. On a global level, the United
Nations' International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights of 1966 guaranteed this right under its Article 13. There is
pressure on many countries to fall in line.
Higher education, also called tertiary, third stage, or
post secondary education, has been considered a non-compulsory educational
level that follows high school. Tertiary education is normally taken to
include undergraduate and postgraduate education, as well as vocational
education and training. There are many different expressions of this level of education, varying standards and therefore
more recently stringent measures being imposed within countries. This has had to come with education becoming global.
ICHE has been concerned for Higher Education since its inception but has constantly battled with the varying standards and
structures. In some countries, USA for instance, it is relatively easy to get a tertiary institution started – a College or University; while
in Europe and parts of the old colonial empire - India and Nigeria for instance, it is harder. Christians have always been eager to establish
quality institutions wanting to give value added education to those in their reach but face problems.
Some of the questions asked are important? Who authorizes the formation of an institution… and then to grant a degree? Who
recognizes these degrees? Who regulates standards? An even more basic question arising recently is – “Where will this degree take me…?” Some
students would like to convert the certificate we award into a job oriented and sometimes even lucrative future. Others, even committed to
service, may face related problems.
We battle with this issue all over the world. But how can ICHE help?
Ken R. Gnanakan
New textbooks with integrated approach coming soon!
ICHE is in the process of developing new textbooks based on the integrated approach to theological education. There are
four such books in preparation which will be ready for use for theological institutions in the near future. Eight more books are expected
similarly as a joint effort between Indian and African scholars. The topics being covered are integrated education, Ethical Issues in minor
profits and on HIV and AIDS.
MA programmes on Leadership, Islam being worked on
ICHE is making available complete curriculum for MA programmes that can be purchased and used by member institution who require them. The
programmes are currently in the process of being developed and will be offered on completion of the project. Watch this space for
more details. The MA programmes focus on topics like Leadership in Church and Society, Education and Islam.
Letter from our Haiti earthquake survivor members:
The world has been shocked by the devastating earthquakes in Haiti. Two of our members Queensland University and Haitian Association of
Christian Schools of Higher Education have been affected too. It was days before we were able to receive any information on their status and
finally, a few days ago we were able to make contact. The letter is reproduced for the information of the whole ICHE community. Please do
remember them in prayer and extend help in any way possible.
Read the survivor President’s letter from Haiti
How can I help?
Triennial conference, Beatenburg - June 7-9, 2010
Our next triennial conference will be held in Beatenburgh, Switzerland as informed in our last newsletter. The dates
of the conference are June 7-9, 2010. While the business session forms a small part of the event, delegates will discuss Integrated
Theological Program Development with reference to current issues that need to be addressed urgently. A major paper on Accreditation and
Validation will be presented. Europeans as well as Asians and Africans struggle with the issue of recognition of their degrees. ICHE seeks
to provide a platform for discussion.
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Copyright: 2004 - International Council for Higher Education (ICHE)
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