The African Centre of Excellence in Theology and Canon Law (ACETCL) initiative, housed in Catholic University of East Africa (CUEA), offers a platform for the voices of African theologians to be heard in the global theological and ecclesial discourse. To achieve this, we offer research fellowships and doctoral scholarships to help experienced and upcoming scholars, especially women theologians.
Mission & Vision
Mission
To create a Centre of Excellence for theological and Canon Law Scholars who shall contribute to ecclesial debates on the African and Global platform.
Vision
To be a robust network of scholars with a passion for the church and society within the African and Global context.
Objectives
Cultivating African Scholarship
To strengthen the intellectual and research capabilities of African theologians and Canon lawyers, empowering them to make meaningful contributions to the Church both in Africa and worldwide.
Building a Supportive Community
To create an environment where African theologians and Canon lawyers can freely express their ideas and feel empowered in their academic journey. Our community fosters growth, innovation, and authentic dialogue.
International Collaboration
To connect African scholars (Anglophones and Francophones) with other theologians and Canon lawyers, fostering partnerships on common topics of interests and creating opportunities for collaborative research.
Approach
At the African Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Theology and Canon Law, we develop unique research approaches that blend African cultural perspectives with theological traditions.
Our work spans three key areas:
Christian Anthropology
Exploring what it means to be human from a Christian perspective. It examines the nature, purpose & dignity of human life in Christian thought and the intersection of theology, Canon law, & philosophy in Christian faith.
Contextual Theology
We study how Biblical and spiritual traditions relate to today's Church. It addresses the actual concerns of the local & universal Church in Catholic intellectual traditions. It includes Synodality, Child protection and other Contemporary theological themes.
Canon Law
It examines the legal framework and organizational structure of the Catholic Church. It includes issues of Church authority & power dynamics, Leadership accountability, Separation of powers, Church hierarchy & organization and Ecclesiology & governance.
Each research area is shaped by ongoing discussions between our academic committee and research cohorts, ensuring our work remains relevant and impactful.