A central concern for ATTS is that Bible schools and extension programs seek to offer quality theological and ministerial education. In order to provide quality educational programs, ATTS strongly promotes and advocates for schools and educators to officially join the membership of the Association for Pentecostal Theological Education in Africa (APTEA).

 

APTEA is an interdenominational Pentecostal group that gives oversight to member institutions that fall in the geographical region of Africa. The founding meeting convened in Nairobi, Kenya in February 2011 and included a number of Pentecostal groups from across Africa. At this meeting APTEA was officially established as a theological association with three commissions:

 

1. Endorsement and Accreditation Commission
2. Faculty Enrichment and Certification Commission
3. Scholarly Research and Writing Commission

APTEA is officially recognized by the leadership of the Africa Assemblies of God Alliance (AAGA), and a growing number of Assemblies of God theological institutions across the continent have officially joined and are enjoying member services.  So, what is the primary mission of APTEA? APTEA seeks to do the following in cooperation with its member schools:

• Promote close working relationships and the sharing of resources among the Pentecostal theological institutions throughout Africa.
• Advance the adoption of endorsement and accreditation standards, and procedures, for members that encourage:

– Distinctives of the Pentecostal movement;

– Standards of academic excellence;

– Practices for student spiritual life development;

– Skills aiding practical leadership and ministry training;

– Programs of education that develop the needs of students to serve a national and local church.

• Organize meetings and consultations for the members to encourage networking and to create awareness of trends in theological, leadership, and ministry education.
• Encourage research and scholarship that informs the development of contextual theology, leadership and ministry education within the Pentecostal tradition.
• Provide faculty enrichment resources and establish standards for teacher certification.

I encourage all Assemblies of God institutions to seek membership with APTEA and ensure their programs of training hold to standards that reflect well on our calling to provide quality theological and ministerial education that prepares competent men and women for Spirit-filled, biblically grounded ministry in Africa today.

 

John L. Easter, PhD
Executive Director
Africa Theological Training Service (ATTS)