Daystar University in collaboration with International Network for Christian Higher Education (INCHE) hosts the first INCHE Africa Conference at Corat Africa Nairobi.

By Timothy Oiro

[Nairobi: July 9, 2025] The International Network for Christian Higher Education (INCHE) celebrated its golden jubilee with a conference held at CORAT Africa in Nairobi, Kenya, from July 7- 9, 2025.  The conference, co-hosted by Daystar University, was the first to be held in Africa.  It ran under the theme: Strengthening Christian Fabric in African Higher Education.  

Among the participants was INCHE Executive Director, Mrs. Shirley Roels, INCHE Program Coordinator, Mrs. Heather Altena, Daystar University Vice Chancellor, Prof Laban Ayiro, the Vice Chancellor of Ugandan Christian University, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, the Vice Chancellor of Bowen University Prof. Jonathan Babalola, Prof. Danny McCain from the University of Jos, Nigeria. Also present were 14 other member universities from across Africa.  The three-day programme involved insightful and impactful interactions.

Giving the opening address, Prof. Laban Ayiro acknowledged that INCHE has played a pivotal role in uniting Christian scholars into a global interconnectedness in advancing Christianity in higher education.

“We celebrate INCHE‘s role in upholding Christ at the center of learning and bringing together universities across continents,” said Prof Ayiro, further stating that this year’s conference resonated deeply with Colossians 1:10 which sheds light on bearing fruit in everything that a Christian does, and which is also in tandem with INCHE’s goals in weaving Christ love in every fabric of university life, shaping hearts and minds for Christ.

The VC expressed hope that the INCHE Africa 2025 will be a firm foundation for collaborative growth, and that God’s grace will richly bless the academic fellowship going forward.

On the same day, INCHE celebrated the memory of the late Prof. Faith Nguru, who was a valued member of the INCHE Africa Board. The memorial service was attended by Prof. Godfrey Nguru and their daughter, Ms. Nyambura Nguru, Prof. Faith Nguru’s sister Rahab Mundara and her husband Mr. Mundara Muturi, Mr. John Gathu - Prof Faith Nguru’s brother, Mariam Nguru, Prof. Nguru’s daughter-in-law, Dr. Bernice Gatere- Prof. Nguru' s niece and her husband James Gatere.

The Vice Chancellor reflected on the strong professional and personal bond he shared with Prof. Nguru. He fondly remembered her soft-spoken yet resolute nature, sharing anecdotes of how she would confidently express her views even when it meant challenging decisions at the highest level.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Prof. Godfrey Nguru expressed their gratitude for the memorial service, highlighting that a book chronicling Prof. Faith Nguru’s life and contributions is currently being written. He also revealed that the family is in the process of establishing a library in her honor. In recognition of this tribute, INCHE Africa presented a selection of books to be included in the new library and offered Prof. Godfrey Nguru a gift hamper as a token of appreciation and respect.

Day two of the conference offered a change of scenery as the guests took an excursion to Daystar University Main Campus Athi River. The team was hosted by the Directorate of Resource Mobilization in Vice Chancellor’s Office, , the Corporate Affairs and University Services departments. They visited various spots on Athi River Campus, before proceeding for an early dinner at the David Musau Mumama Learning Complex (DMMLC).

At the dinner, the Ag. DVC ARSA, Prof. Samuel Muriithi set the tone by giving a brief history of Daystar University since its establishment over 50 years ago. He stated that Daystar University was committed to quality standards by investing in quality education through recruitment of highly qualified staff, majority of whom have PhDs.

As he welcomed the guests to Daystar University, the Vice Chancellor acknowledged the opportunity for Daystar University to host INCHE delegates. He noted that their convergence fosters a positive synergy in God’s work.

The Chief Manager-Finance, CPA Phyllis Mutua recounted how she joined Daystar University in 1994 and the transformation she has witnessed over the years accentuated by faith.

On the third and final day, the conference shifted to a more robust and complex devotion led by Dr. Aaron Mushengyezi, the Vice Chancellor of Ugandan Christian University, which centered on what God has put in the hands of Christians.  Dr. Mushengyezi noted that Moses was reluctant and doubtful because of his limitations, yet God empowered him with miraculous signs and provided Aaron as a spokesperson.  He further stated that God empowers those he calls; therefore, one should live by faith, obey God and allow him to use them as agents of positive change.

Day three featured various scholarly presentations.  Dr. Umy Nzioka from Dordt University (USA) gave an outstanding presentation in which she explored an integral mode of faith in the learning sphere. Dr. Nzioka proposed a two-pronged approach:  an institutional framework that creates a unified and consistent approach for the academic body and an aligned academic staff who embrace their role as a calling from God.

The Dean, School of Arts and Social Sciences, Dr. Josephine Munyao presented on integration of faith and learning approach in Christian learning, to propel transformation. Her paper argued that integration of Christian faith, learning and its context will be more effective for the transformation of individual and society.

Overall, the conference successfully cultivated an environment to generate practical ideas among delegates regarding the integration of faith and learning to strengthen the Christian fabric in African Higher learning institution.

The International Network for Christian Higher Education (INCHE), has since its inception in 1975, been on the forefront of promoting education among African countries infused with Christian values.