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InterSections

inform - encourage - unite

INTERNATIONAL LETTER

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Heritage Christian University, Ghana: 

Transforming Lives Through Christ-Centered Education.   Frank Essien

Heritage Christian University (Heritage), located in the vibrant city of Accra, Ghana, is a higher educational institution sponsored by members of Churches of Christ with a vision ‘to be a leading Christian university promoting excellence in the advancement of science, technology, and entrepreneurship to transform lives and society.’ Since its establishment in 2015, Heritage has pursued the objective of promoting liberal arts education with core outcomes in entrepreneurship, philanthropy, ethics, and global exposure in science, technology, engineering, and liberal arts programs. Currently, Heritage has a student population of 1055, including all centres and institutes.

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Heritage’s mission reflects its holistic approach to education, aiming to ‘provide education that cultivates conviction, character, creativity, compassion, and community to serve God and neighbour.’  These Core Values are intentionally integrated into the curriculum to inform teaching and learning, ensuring that Heritage is not just a place of learning but a hub for shaping ethical, innovative, and servant-hearted leaders who can meet the needs of a rapidly changing world.

 

The institution offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs in business, theology, computing, nursing, and midwifery. Beginning 2025, Heritage will roll out a Master of Art in Christian Studies. The aim of the program is to offer opportunity for further training and development of ministry leaders in Ghana and beyond to meet the demands of ministry in the 21st century. To advance the mission of the church, the Heritage Bible Institute (HBI) plays a pivotal role in equipping individuals for ministry, making Heritage a unique blend of academia and faith.

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Heritage distinguishes itself by integrating academic rigour with a deep commitment to Christian values. Students are not only prepared for professional success but are also empowered to live a life of service within the kingdom of God and their communities. Through HBI and various church partnership initiatives, the university has trained countless church leaders, many of whom now serve congregations in Ghana and 11 other countries in Africa.

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Impact Week trains students in design thinking, a creative problem-solving approach. Through team projects addressing real-world challenges, students gain practical skills and develop innovative solutions, enhancing their entrepreneurial and leadership abilities.

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Heritage’s Startup Challenge encourages students to pitch innovative business ideas, offering mentorship and funding opportunities. Students also compete in the Fowler Global Social Innovation Contest, gaining global exposure and showcasing their entrepreneurial talent.

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The Day of Philanthropy emphasises service, with students and staff contributing to support disadvantaged students in the university and supporting community projects like orphanages, disaster relief, and medical outreach. This event fosters compassion and social responsibility, integral to Heritage’s mission of holistic education.

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Heritage provides scholarships and financial aid, ensuring that quality education is accessible to many who might not otherwise have the means to pursue higher learning. This commitment helps bridge financial gaps and supports students in achieving their academic and professional aspirations. Heritage also offers free tuition for its students pursuing academic degrees to pursue professional programs in accounting, HR, banking, marketing, and IT. This initiative reduces financial barriers, empowering students to access education that combines technical proficiency with Christian principles, ensuring they are well-prepared for the workforce.

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However, like many private institutions, Heritage faces challenges. Financial constraints can hinder the expansion of programs, infrastructure, and facilities needed to accommodate its growing ambitions. Additionally, maintaining a balance between academic rigour and the demands of spiritual training require ongoing innovation, resource mobilisation, and strategic planning to sustain its mission and vision effectively.

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My journey in biblical studies has been deeply intertwined with my calling to serve the church. Growing up in Ghana, I witnessed the transformative power of the Gospel in my community, which inspired me to pursue theological training. My academic path led me to Abilene Christian University (ACU) and Sunset International Bible Institute (SIBI) in the United States. Both places deepened my understanding of Scripture and ministry.

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At ACU, I was privileged to learn under distinguished scholars and engage in a multicultural academic environment. The experience broadened my perspective on biblical interpretation and equipped me with tools to address the unique challenges of ministry in Africa. I also pursued a Doctor of Ministry in Spiritual Formation and Ministry Leadership at Lipscomb University to acquire further knowledge and insights into dealing with complex ministry challenges, especially dealing with campus churches.

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Returning to Ghana, I found in Heritage a platform to channel my passion for teaching and mentoring future leaders. Heritage represents the intersection of my academic pursuits and my commitment to the spiritual growth of my people. It is a privilege to contribute to an institution that is shaping the future of Ghana and the global church.

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Reflecting on Heritage's journey, I am optimistic about its future. By God’s grace, the institution will continue to grow, overcoming challenges and expanding its transformative influence. It is my prayer that more individuals and organisations will join in supporting Heritage’s mission to transform lives through Christ-centered education.

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Frank Essien is on the faculty of Heritage Christian University in the Department of Theology and Ministry and has been the preacher of University of Cape Coast Church of Christ for about 15 years. He and his wife, Millicent, have four sons (Perez, Brady-Jon, Nana Yaw and Randy-Jay).        foe018a@hcuc.edu.gh

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