East-Central Africa Division

Teachers’ Convention in Eastern Africa Empowers Educators for Mission

The event brought educators from across private and public schools across the region.

January 30, 2025

Arusha, Tanzania

Nickodemus Onyango, West Kenya Union Conference, and Adventist Review

Group photo of the attendees to the East-Central Africa Teachers’ Convention in Arusha, Tanzania.

[Photo: West Kenya Union Conference]

The East-Central Africa Division (ECD) education department hosted a teachers’ convention from December 11 to 14 in Arusha, Tanzania. Under the theme “Educating for Mission,” the event brought educators from private and public schools together across that church region.

In his opening speech, ECD Secretary Musa Mitekaro and ECD President Blasious Ruguri emphasized the power of Adventist education.

“Adventist education prepares people for useful and joy-filled lives,” Ruguri emphasized. “[It fosters] friendship with God, wholistic development, Bible-based values, and selfless service in alignment with the Seventh-day Adventist mission to the world.”

He also quoted Ellen G. White’s book Education, where she wrote, “The work of education and the work of redemption are one” (p. 30). It was a sentiment that resonated deeply with those present, event attendees acknowledged.

ECD Education Director Andrew Mutero inspired participants to elevate Adventist education across the region. Various presentations also stressed the importance of maintaining a focused vision for education in a world in which moral and spiritual values are increasingly challenged.

The convention emphasized that educators are shaping minds for success and guiding students toward a more purposeful future, both in this life and for eternity.

General Conference education department director Lisa Beardsley-Hardy and other leaders pose for a photo outside the convention venue.

The convention enabled educators to explore new methods, share best practices, and reaffirm Adventist education’s mission, regional church leaders said.

“The convention reminded teachers of their sacred calling to reflect Christ, whose patience, compassion, wisdom, and love should guide their practices,” they said. “Educators aligned with God’s heart nurture empower students, reflecting Christ’s love in every lesson.”

Leaders also added that the event highlighted the integration of faith and science. “Seventh-day Adventists believe that faith and reason complement each other,” they explained.

Sabbath observance was emphasized as a sacred time for rest, reflection, and reconnection with God, during which scientific discovery and spiritual reflection coexist, deepening our understanding of the world and divine purpose, leaders reported. Also, leaders recognized the integration of administration, management, and leadership within Adventist institutions as crucial for fostering a unified, mission-driven environment.

Presenters included General Conference (GC) Education Department Director Lisa Beardsley-Hardy, GC Associate Education Director Richard Sabuin, and other church and educational leaders. According to participants and organizers, they led insightful and thought-provoking sessions.

“Their contributions ignited meaningful discussions on the future of Adventist education and its crucial role in advancing the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church,” organizers shared. “The convention served as a powerful reminder of the vital role educators play in shaping the next generation. Energized with a renewed sense of purpose, teachers left Arusha equipped and inspired to make a lasting impact in their classrooms and communities, firmly guided by the mission of Adventist education.”